Estimator​/Sr. Estimator​/Preconstruction Manager

LS Black Constructors, headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a full-service commercial construction firm with a process-driven and scalable approach. The company is known for its "Partner First" philosophy, emphasizing collaboration to deliver on clients’ goals and ensure a remarkable project experience. With a team of dedicated and experienced construction professionals, LS Black Constructors is committed to the success of every project.

The company prioritizes exceptional customer experiences in every interaction and project.

LS Black Constructors is seeking an Estimator / Preconstruction Manager or Senior Estimator / Preconstruction Manager to join our growing Federal preconstruction team. This position will prepare, lead, and present estimates and proposals while managing preconstruction services across all project procurement types. The ideal candidate will leverage our estimating processes to support business development and foster strong relationships with clients, design partners, and trade partners.

Experience level and compensation will be commensurate with qualifications. We're open to candidates ranging from mid-level (3-5 years) to senior-level (extensive experience).

• Lead and complete estimates on time across all project types, from competitive bids to negotiated work, with a primary focus on Federal renovations and new construction projects
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs in both 2D and 3D environments
• Develop General Conditions and Margin Plans for assigned estimates
• Lead self-perform estimates (concrete, selective demolition, general trades) with detailed quantity, labor, equipment, and material pricing
• Manage project risks and fees throughout the preconstruction process
• Produce professional, comprehensive publications after milestone estimates
• Provide "Real Time" estimating services on negotiated projects
• Conduct system analysis on structural, exterior skin, and mechanical systems
• Participate in constructability reviews, page turns, kickoff, and strategy sessions
• Solicit, qualify, and analyze pricing from subcontractors and material vendors
• Actively recruit vendor participation for LS Black proposals
• Lead bid day activities including subcontractor follow-up, bid leveling, and proposal analysis
• Maintain bid solicitation software with current vendor information, minority status, and union status
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, owners, design teams, and trade partners
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits
• Support pursuit of new work through professional presentations

• Read and interpret project specifications, drawings, geotechnical reports, and narratives
• General knowledge of Federal DoD contracting vehicles and understanding of USACE and NAVFAC requirements.
• Utilize historical cost data, production rates, and cost reports to generate accurate estimates
• Develop value engineering/analysis logs
• Review operations logistics, staging, and phasing plans for cost impacts
• Identify and develop trade package scopes of work
• Provide training, mentoring, and leadership to estimating, preconstruction, and operations staff (level dependent on experience)
• Foster a collaborative team environment
• Engage operations and field staff to develop economical construction methods
• Work closely with Directors of Preconstruction on strategic projects
• Participate in presentations to internal management and external clients
• Assist/lead subcontractor buyout process on awarded projects.
• Background in Project Management with ability to dual hat on occasion is a plus.

• 3-5 years of preconstruction/estimating experience on Federal projects (Estimator level) OR extensive preconstruction/estimating knowledge (Senior level)
• Associate degree in Estimating or Construction Management, or equivalent experience.
• Thorough knowledge of self-perform concrete, selective demolition, and general trades.
• Strong understanding of Uniformat, CSI, and unit pricing
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, organization, and time management abilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, database estimating software, and 2D takeoff software
• Proficient in working in Excel creating new templates and maintaining existing templates.
• Valid driver's license
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong work ethic, loyal, trustworthy, honest, and collaborative

• Bachelor's Degree in Construction Engineering or Construction Management
• USACE and NAVFAC estimating and construction experience
• 3D software experience (REVIT, Sketchup)
• Experience driving productive relationships with internal and external partners
• DBIA certification (for senior-level candidates)

• Office: St. Paul corporate office with occasional site visits
• Travel: Periodic overnight travel required

• Join a growing Minnesota-based construction company with a strong reputation in federal and commercial…