Construction Project Manager and Estimator (Concrete)

Zenith Construction and Engineering Services LLC • Full-time • Chicago, Illinois, United States • $30 - $40 / hour • 1d ago

Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Construction Project Manager and Estimator (Concrete) to lead and coordinate concrete construction projects from inception to completion. This dual-function role combines rigorous pre-construction estimating with full-cycle project management — from bid and award through submittals, construction execution, and ﬁnal project closeout. The ideal candidate has deep roots in the Chicago construction market, with a strong command of concrete construction methods and a proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget. This role offers an exciting opportunity to oversee large-scale projects, manage budgets, and ensure timely delivery while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. The ideal candidate will possess strong expertise in construction estimating, project management, and concrete construction processes, bringing energy and precision to every task. Join our team to drive impactful projects that shape communities and infrastructure!

Duties

ESTIMATING

Quantity Takeoffs: Perform detailed concrete quantity takeoffs for foundations, slabs-on-grade, elevated decks, walls, columns, piers, and flatwork using Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff, or equivalent software.
Bid Preparation: Develop comprehensive, competitive cost estimates for commercial, industrial, and civil concrete projects across the Chicago metropolitan area.
Subcontractor Solicitation: Identify, solicit, and level subcontractor and supplier bids; build and maintain relationships with the local Chicago-area concrete and specialty trade community.
Material Pricing: Maintain current knowledge of local ready-mix concrete, rebar, formwork, and admixture pricing; negotiate favorable terms with suppliers.
Scope & Risk Review: Thoroughly review plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and RFIs to identify scope items, exclusions, and project risks prior to submission.
Bid Submissions: Prepare and deliver accurate bid packages on deadline, with clearly documented qualifications and assumptions.
Value Engineering: Identify cost-saving opportunities during estimating without compromising structural integrity, safety, or schedule.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Project Kickoff & Buyout: Lead handoff from estimating to operations; manage subcontractor/supplier buy-out, contract execution, and initial schedule development.
Submittal Management: Coordinate and track all submittals, shop drawings, RFIs, and material approvals through the complete submittal log from award through close.
Construction Execution: Provide on-site and office-based oversight of concrete scope; coordinate with field superintendents to ensure work is executed per plans, specs, and schedule.
Schedule & Budget Control: Monitor project milestones and budget performance; identify variances and implement corrective actions with the project team.
Owner Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for owners, architects, engineers, and inspectors; lead project meetings and deliver regular status updates.
Change Order Management: Identify, price, and negotiate change orders promptly; maintain a complete change order log throughout the project lifecycle.
Quality & Safety: Ensure concrete work meets project specs, Chicago building codes, and OSHA requirements; coordinate inspections and material testing.
Project Closeout: Manage all closeout activities — punch list, as-builts, O&M manuals, final inspections, certificate of occupancy, lien waivers, and final billing.
Financial Reporting: Prepare pay applications, cost-to-complete projections, and monthly job cost reports in coordination with accounting.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

5+ years of combined experience in concrete construction estimating and/or project management, with at least 2 years at a Chicago-area general contractor, concrete subcontractor, or CM firm.
Demonstrated ability to manage concrete projects from submittal phase through construction execution and final closeout.
In-depth knowledge of CIP concrete, structural concrete, flatwork, and below-grade construction methods.
Proficiency with estimating tools such as Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff, or Procore Estimating.
Experience with project management platforms (Procore, Buildertrend, CMiC, or similar).
Familiarity with Chicago labor market conditions, union agreements (Cement Masons Local 502, Laborers, Operating Engineers Local 150), and local AHJ requirements.
Ability to read and interpret structural drawings, architectural plans, geotechnical reports, and specifications.
Strong analytical, organizational, and time-management skills; ability to manage multiple projects and bids simultaneously.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for proposals, RFIs, submittals, and client interactions.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Project).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
Experience on IDOT, CDOT, or CTA infrastructure projects involving heavy concrete work.
Established relationships with concrete suppliers, ready-mix producers, and specialty subcontractors in the Chicago metro area.
PMP (Project Management Professional) certification or equivalent.

Pay: $30.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits: