Preconstruction Manager / Senior Estimator

Preconstruction Manager / Senior Estimator | Bouten Construction Company | Tri-Cities, WA

Bouten Construction has been shaping the Inland Northwest for more than 80 years, delivering iconic projects that define our region. Recognized as a Best Places to Work INW in 2023, 2024, and 2025, we take pride not only in the spaces we build, but in the relationships we create along the way. As a Preconstruction Manager/Senior Estimator at Bouten, you’ll be part of a team where your contributions truly make a difference. Here, you’ll grow your career while enjoying the benefits of shorter commutes, more time with loved ones, and endless opportunities to explore the beautiful outdoors. Together, let’s build a brighter future.

Reporting to the Preconstruction Department Manager, this role works closely with Preconstruction Managers, Estimators, Project Executives, Project Managers, Project Engineers, operations teams, design partners, owners, and trade partners. The position combines leadership of the preconstruction process with hands-on estimating responsibility from conceptual design through final Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) development. Because much of Bouten's work is negotiated or delivered through alternative project delivery, the role supports collaborative planning, Lean principles, and Target Value Delivery throughout preconstruction.

Job Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each of the essential duties/responsibilities listed below. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties/responsibilities of this job.

• Lead preconstruction efforts for multiple projects in various stages, establishing the strategy, approach, staffing plan, goals, and final deliverables.
• Organize and coordinate the preconstruction team; delegate responsibilities, establish accountability, and follow up on assigned work while maintaining positive working relationships.
• Facilitate clear communication among project teams of varying sizes and prepare and lead project meetings with a defined purpose, agenda, and meeting minutes.
• Build collaborative relationships with owners and design teams, communicate risks and sensitive topics effectively, and support relationships that may lead to future opportunities.
• Participate actively in project pursuits by developing a market-leading preconstruction approach and presenting effectively to owners and selection committees.
• Lead and execute Target Value Delivery processes with clients, design partners, operations, and trade partners.
• Develop comprehensive, detailed, and accurate conceptual and progress estimates from limited design information through GMP, including identification and pricing of incomplete design elements.
• Support, compile, update, and finalize project estimates and preconstruction deliverables for Progressive Design-Build, design-build, CMAR, GC/CM, negotiated, and lump-sum work as applicable.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and apply unit pricing across CSI MasterFormat divisions, including Bouten self-performed work.
• Estimate complex and technical projects independently and develop project-specific general conditions, estimate totals, and summary checks.
• Review drawings, specifications, details, and other project documents across disciplines for completeness, constructability, coordination, risk, and potential construction issues.
• Apply knowledge of CSI MasterFormat, construction means and methods, installation sequence, productivity rates, building systems, and assemblies.
• Review and analyze trade partner pricing, engage trade partners in progress estimates, support negotiations, and make award recommendations.
• Use historical cost information to evaluate labor, equipment, material, system, assembly, trade partner, and overall project costs.
• Update and maintain the estimating database, including production rates, self-performed costs and durations, trade partner costs, and completed project costs.
• Manage multiple projects in different estimating and preconstruction stages while maintaining complete, accurate, and error-free estimates and deliverables.
• Participate in hard-bid projects when required and tailor estimate formats and presentation materials to the owner and project type.
• Embrace continuous improvement and incorporate Lean principles into daily work.
• Maintain professional relationships, sound judgment, and high ethical standards consistent with Bouten Construction Company.
  

Desired Attributes

• Excellent follow-up and attention to details.
• Sense of urgency on important matters.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Team-oriented, collaborative, resourceful, and positive attitude.
• Excellent interpersonal and creative skills.
• Ability to maintain focus on goals, combined with the flexibility to pivot when necessary.
• A self-starter, results-oriented individual who enjoys working in a strong team environment with awesome clients.

Qualifications

• Degree in Construction Management or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Seven to ten years of experience in project management, preconstruction, estimating, cost control, or a related construction role, preferably involving healthcare, life sciences, higher education, K-12 education, or commercial projects.
• Demonstrated experience developing GMP and lump-sum estimates; experience with alternative delivery methods is preferred.
• Experience estimating self-performed concrete or other self-performed work is a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, on-screen takeoff software, and scheduling software such as Microsoft Project or Primavera; proficiency with DESTINI Estimator is a plus.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Team-oriented, collaborative, resourceful, and positive, with strong interpersonal, listening, facilitation, and presentation skills.
• Self-directed and results-oriented, with the ability to maintain focus on goals and pivot as project needs change.
  

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $120,000 to $170,000.
• Annual discretionary bonus based on company and individual performance.
• Vehicle allowance.
• Relocation assistance available.
• 100% company paid medical, dental and vision premiums for employee and family.
• 401k with company match $1 for $1 up to 6%.
• 3 weeks’ vacation and 12 sick days.
• 9 Paid holidays.
• Philanthropy & volunteer opportunities.
• Service awards & recognition.
• Training & Continued Education Support.
• Clothing Allowance.
• Team Events: Holiday Party, Bouten Annual Golf Tournament, Summer Event, and Annual Town Hall.
• Please note that we do not sponsor or provide assistance with visa applications. All applicants must have the legal right to work in United States independently at the time of application

Location: Tri-Cities, WA www.visittri-cities.com.

Equal Opportunities

All employees and job applicants are guaranteed an equal employment opportunity. Bouten will not discriminate against any individual based on a protected status, including race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, marital or veteran status, or any other protected status under Federal, State, or local laws.