1

Preconstruction Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MMR Preconstruction Engineer - based at our corporate headquarters in Baton Rouge, LA. Location: 15961 Airline Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70817 Company Culture: At MMR, our most valuable assets are not our ...

MMR Preconstruction Engineer - based at our corporate headquarters in Baton Rouge, LA. Location: 15961 Airline Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70817 Company Culture: At MMR, our most valuable assets are not our ...

Preconstruction Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$73.10K - $97.50K/yr

How You'll Contribute The Preconstruction Engineer will be responsible for supporting the preconstruction team including take-offs, estimate preparation, subcontractor outreach, and data management ...

The Role We Want You For As a Preconstruction Engineer you will drive the bidding process for construction projects by crafting precise conceptual and hard dollar estimates, developing proposals, and ...

Senior Preconstruction Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$123.10K - $169.10K/yr

The Senior Preconstruction Engineer works with and supports the Preconstruction leaders in development of quantity take-off, cost estimates, lump sum bidding, and other preconstruction services to ...

Senior Preconstruction Engineer

San Antonio, TX

$94.80K - $130.20K/yr

The Senior Preconstruction Engineer works with and supports the Preconstruction leaders in development of cost estimates and other preconstruction services to ensure Skanska is completing our ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Preconstruction Engineer information

See salary details

$39K

$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do preconstruction engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for preconstruction engineer in the United States is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Preconstruction Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preconstruction Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering or construction management, strong analytical skills, and industry experience, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with estimating software (such as Bluebeam, ProEst, or Autodesk), BIM systems, and construction codes is essential. Exceptional attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate with stakeholders and anticipate project needs. These skills ensure accurate project planning, cost control, and successful project execution from the earliest stages.

How does a Preconstruction Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project's early stages?

As a Preconstruction Engineer, you will frequently collaborate with estimators, architects, project managers, and clients to ensure project feasibility and alignment with budgetary and scheduling goals. Regular meetings and communication are essential to coordinate design intent, value engineering options, and constructability reviews. This cross-functional teamwork helps identify potential challenges early on, minimizes unforeseen costs, and sets the foundation for a successful project execution.

What is a Preconstruction Engineer?

A Preconstruction Engineer is a professional who plays a key role in the planning and preparation phase of construction projects. They are responsible for tasks such as cost estimation, project scheduling, feasibility studies, and value engineering before actual construction begins. By collaborating with architects, engineers, and clients, they help ensure that projects are feasible, cost-effective, and delivered on time. Their work is crucial for identifying and mitigating potential risks early in the project lifecycle.

What is the difference between Preconstruction Engineer vs Estimator?

AspectPreconstruction EngineerEstimator
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or Construction Management, certifications like PMP or LEED often preferredHigh school diploma or degree in construction, engineering, or related field; certifications like CPC or CCM beneficial
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with design teams, project managers, and clients during project planningFocuses on cost analysis, bid preparation, and quantity takeoffs
Industry UsageUsed across construction firms, engineering companies, and project developmentPrimarily in construction, contracting, and bidding companies

While both roles are integral to construction projects, a Preconstruction Engineer oversees the planning and coordination during the preconstruction phase, ensuring technical feasibility. An Estimator primarily focuses on calculating costs and preparing bids. Both roles require similar credentials and often work closely during project planning, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

More about Preconstruction Engineer jobs
Infographic showing various Preconstruction Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

The Preconstruction Engineer (or Estimator) will support the bidding process by preparing estimates and proposals for hard bid and conceptual projects. This position will be responsible for all aspects of the bidding and estimating process including quantity takeoffs, review of plans and specifications, developing unit costs to estimate final project costs, soliciting and negotiating prices from subcontractors/suppliers, bid analysis and interacting with owners, architects and engineers. As a preconstruction engineer, you may assist in recommending sub selection and award, buyout and value engineering. Duties include but are not limited to:


Conceptual Estimating

  • Review and understand project documents at a conceptual and schematic level
  • Complete onscreen takeoff of project quantities for all scopes of work
  • Prepare internal estimates based on use of historical cost information from bids and completed work
  • Complete design review and analysis in order to identify value engineering solutions
  • Prepare proposal information for clients

Bid Administration

  • Prepare and maintain status of plan reproduction
  • Solicit and maintain communication with subcontractors and vendors
  • Prepare subcontractor bid packages
  • Transmit addenda and other bid information to subcontractors
  • Ensure proper coverage from subcontractors on bid day
  • Show creativity and resourcefulness to gain better pricing from subcontractors

Project Knowledge

  • Review bid requirements thoroughly and ask follow-up questions on every bid
  • Understand scope for each trade assigned
  • Develop RFIs and clarifications to ensure adequate subcontractor coverage
  • Perform a comprehensive "bid day" analysis and scoping of specific assigned trades
  • Understand how to fit subs to the size/scope of project
  • Create bid lists that fit scope of job to ensure we have the right subs for the project
  • Provide value engineering ideas on every bid

Subcontractor Award

  • Check requirements to buy the proper scope
  • Award subcontracts in a timely manner to ensure release of materials
  • Ensure subs are aware of and committed to project schedule
  • Provide subs with as much project information as possible (i.e. project team, permit status, etc.)

Subcontractor Management

  • Seek and qualify new subcontractors

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (i.e. civil, architectural, or construction), construction management or related field
  • 3-5 years' estimating experience in the vertical, commercial construction industry
  • Excellent computer skills including proficiency in MS Excel, working knowledge of On-Screen Take Off, iSqft, Bluebeam, estimating or scheduling software preferred. 
  • Experience in AutoCAD is a plus
  • Proven success in initiating and maintaining strong interpersonal relationships with internal and external customers
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Detail oriented