Director of Preconstruction in Atlanta, Georgia at The Gordon Highlander Corporation

Director of Preconstruction/ Snr. Estimator

Location: Atlanta, GA

Gordon Highlander is seeking an experienced Director of Preconstruction/ Snr. Estimator to lead our preconstruction efforts and play a pivotal role in securing and delivering successful commercial construction projects. This leadership position is ideal for a strategic thinker who combines technical estimating expertise with exceptional client relationship skills and a passion for developing people.

As Director of Preconstruction/ Snr. Estimator, you will oversee the entire preconstruction process, collaborating with clients, architects, engineers, trade partners, and internal operations teams to develop competitive, accurate, and profitable project solutions. You'll also mentor and develop the next generation of preconstruction professionals while helping drive the continued growth of our business.

The Director of Preconstruction/ Snr. Estimator honors the Gordon Highlander Client Centricity Culture and is a collaborative, cross-functional team player with a servant's heart. This leader is committed to delivering exceptional client experience while fostering teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement across all project stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all preconstruction and estimating activities from project pursuit through contract award
• Oversee the bidding process and coordinate with clients, architects, engineers, trade partners, and vendors
• Prepare and review conceptual estimates, detailed budgets, quantity takeoffs, and competitive proposals
• Lead value engineering efforts to maximize project value while maintaining quality and schedule
• Participate in design reviews and provide constructability and cost guidance throughout project development
• Develop preliminary project schedules and support procurement strategies
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and project scope to identify risks, opportunities, and cost impacts
• Negotiate project construction services and support contract development
• Build and maintain long-term client relationships while consistently exceeding client expectations
• Monitor market conditions, pricing trends, labor availability, and subcontractor capacity to provide strategic market insights
• Mentor and develop Associates of Preconstruction through Gordon Highlander's Leadership Competencies
• Collaborate closely with Operations to ensure a seamless transition from preconstruction to project execution
• Continuously improve estimating processes, systems, and best practices

Qualifications & Experience

• 5+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating and preconstruction
• Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field is preferred but not required
• Proven experience leading preconstruction efforts on commercial construction projects
• Strong knowledge of conceptual estimating, budgeting, cost planning, procurement, and value engineering
• Experience managing multiple pursuits and deadlines simultaneously
• Strong understanding of commercial construction methods, building systems, scheduling, and project delivery methods
• Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and negotiation skills
• Strong analytical abilities with exceptional attention to detail
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Bluebeam, estimating software, and construction management platforms
• Ability to build trusted relationships with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams
• Experience with both ground-up and tenant improvement commercial construction
• Design-build and negotiated project experience
• Strong knowledge of regional subcontractor and supplier markets
• Experience leading teams and mentoring estimating professionals
• Ability to analyze market trends and provide strategic insights to leadership

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Health, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) with company contribution
• Vehicle allowance
• Professional development and leadership training
• Career growth opportunities with a respected and entrepreneurial construction firm
• Opportunity to work on challenging and rewarding commercial construction projects

Why Gordon Highlander?

At Gordon Highlander, we believe exceptional client service begins with exceptional teamwork. We are committed to fostering a culture built on collaboration, accountability, professionalism, and service. Every Highlander plays an important role in our success, and we value individuals who bring energy, integrity, and a genuine desire to help others.

If you're looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while growing your career in a supportive environment, we'd love to hear from you.

Agency & Recruiter Notice

Gordon Highlander does not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies, recruiters, or third-party representatives. Any resumes submitted without a current, executed agreement and written authorization from Gordon Highlander will be considered the property of Gordon Highlander, and no placement fees or compensation will be paid.