Pre-Construction Cost / Estimating Management

Overwatch Mission Critical•Township of Salem, NC

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Overwatch Mission Critical is seeking a highly detail-oriented and commercially-minded professional to serve as the critical bridge between their Cost and Project Management teams. This role is not just an estimating role; the individual will be the gatekeeper of the project’s financial integrity from preconstruction through final close-out. The ideal candidate is someone who masters the fine print, understands the leverage within a contract, and isn't afraid to be the first line of defense in cost negotiations.

Requirements

Strong background in preconstruction, estimating, and industrial/commercial costing.
The ability to read, interpret, and defend construction contracts and document releases with precision.
Comfortable being the "no" person when changes are invalid and capable of defending that position with data.
Ability to synthesize complex data sets into clear summaries for negotiation purposes.
A natural instinct to protect the project budget and ensure every dollar billed by trades is earned.
Candidates must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license appropriate for the role and be eligible to operate a motor vehicle in accordance with applicable laws (for roles requiring on-site presence or travel).
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in a professional work environment, including preparing written reports and documentation, conveying information clearly to team members, clients, and stakeholders, and responding appropriately to verbal and written communications related to job duties.

Nice To Haves

Mastery of every contract, subcontract, document release, and bulletin.
Understanding of the leverage within a contract.
Willingness to be the first line of defense in cost negotiations.

Responsibilities

Maintain an absolute mastery of every contract, subcontract, document release, and bulletin, serving as the point of truth for what is—and is not—included in the scope of work.
Co-lead all change order meetings, serving as the primary point person for the initial review and rejection of invalid change requests.
Provide detailed summary data for all valid change orders and partner with the cost team to aggressively negotiate values down to ensure fair pricing.
Act as the functional "bridge" between the Estimating/Cost department and the field Project Management team to ensure financial alignment at every stage.
Remain embedded with the project through the close-out phase, monitoring project speed and trade performance to ensure billings accurately reflect progress and prevent over-payment.