Preconstruction Specialist I

The Haskell Company•Salt Lake City, UT

13d

About The Position

The Preconstruction Specialist supports the development of project cost, scope, and procurement strategies through detailed quantity takeoffs, trade coordination, and data-driven estimating. The role produces accurate and timely work products that contribute to estimate quality and project success. It participates in pre-estimate activities, develops estimates, coordinates with subcontractors and vendors, supports post-deliverable tasks, and maintains estimating and related databases. The specialist uses model-based takeoff tools and estimating software, AI-assisted workflows, and digital workflows that support BIM/VDC coordination. Travel to meet subcontractors, attend bid walks, and attend conferences is expected at approximately 10%.

Requirements

Ability to read plans and specifications.
Knowledge of construction, material systems, market conditions, and trade practices.
Knowledge of estimating software; examples listed include Beck Destini, Accubid, Bluebeam, and InSite.
Excellent computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office suite programs.
Detail-oriented, deadline-oriented, well-organized, and able to prioritize.
Strong organizational skills.
Good oral and written communication skills and ability to communicate effectively.
Strong desire to learn and develop new processes, programs, and skills.
Ability to perform the physical demands described, including lifting, carrying, or moving 10–50 pounds.
Bachelor of Science degree in an accredited construction-related curriculum, such as Civil Engineering or Construction Management, or equivalent preferred; alternatively, 5 years of relevant construction-industry experience.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor of Science degree in an accredited construction-related curriculum, such as Civil Engineering or Construction Management, or equivalent.
Familiarity with Beck Destini, Accubid, Bluebeam, or InSite estimating software.

Responsibilities

Participate in estimate plan meetings and assist the preconstruction team as assigned.
Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and design review meetings.
Support the Preconstruction Manager in following the Preconstruction Process Flow.
Perform detailed quantity takeoffs using drawings, specifications, and models.
Contribute to RFI lists and clarifications for assigned scopes of work.
Lead discussions on estimated scopes of work during estimate reviews.
Support development of conceptual, schematic, and detailed estimates.
Maintain and update cost databases, unit pricing, and historical benchmarks.
Participate in constructability reviews and value engineering efforts.
Compile estimate deliverables and ensure assigned scopes are complete.
Support procurement and buyout activities as needed.
Contribute to continuous improvement through lessons learned and data capture.
Assist with subcontractor and vendor outreach, bid leveling, and scope validation.
Help ensure bid documents are sent only to qualified subcontractors and vendors.
Meet with local subcontractors as needed.
Help develop and distribute subcontractor and vendor bid packages, coordinating with operational resources to ensure completeness.
Assist in recommending subcontractors and vendors to include in overall pricing.
Help submit project budgets to accounting.
Assist with compiling lessons learned for the preconstruction phase, when applicable.
Help maintain preferred subcontractor, bid forms and packages, cost history, estimating, and lessons-learned databases.
Use model-based takeoff tools, estimating software, AI-assisted workflows, and digital workflows including BIM/VDC coordination.
Travel as necessary to meet local subcontractors, attend bid walks, and attend conferences.
Visit alternate locations as required and perform the stated physical activities, including standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and handling light to medium weights.