Pre-Construction Estimator - Modular Construction

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

Impact Housing (IH) is a vertically integrated modular design-builder and developer headquartered in Southern California. 

Our mission is to continuously evolve the world’s most sophisticated and efficient housing delivery system. We pursue this mission by reimagining every element of how multifamily projects are designed, manufactured, and built—driving down costs, shortening schedules, and expanding access to high-quality housing for the people who need it most, whether through LIHTC or unsubsidized projects.

To date this decade, the IH team has built or is actively developing close to 1,500 modular units demonstrating a scalable, repeatable path to affordability. With the capability to produce approximately 1,000 units per year today, IH is expanding to meet growing demand in San Diego, Los Angeles, and beyond.

We are now entering the next stage of our growth and strengthening every team across the company to achieve our next set of goals. We plan to manufacture and build more than 10,000 units through 2030. To accomplish this, we are implementing the Lean Standard Model company-wide; deploying AI at every level of the company; and positioning IH as a national thought leader in modular development.

The foundation for our success is firmly in place. Join us as we scale our operations, transition into a higher-capacity manufacturing facility powered by smart automation and robotics, expand our production capacity by more than 3x in the Western U.S., and prepare for future national growth.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Pre-Construction Estimator is responsible for leading the estimating and budgeting process for modular construction projects from conceptual design through contract execution. This role develops accurate cost models, evaluates project risks, collaborates with internal stakeholders, and supports strategic planning during the pre-construction phase.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare detailed conceptual, schematic, design development, GMP, and final estimates for modular construction projects
• Analyze drawings, specifications, BIM models, logistics plans, and production requirements to develop complete project budgets
• Lead quantity takeoffs and pricing efforts for manufacturing, transportation, crane operations, site work, and field installation
• Develop detailed scopes of work and bid packages for subcontractors and suppliers
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor/vendor proposals
• Coordinate closely with architecture, engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and operations teams during pre-construction
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and lead value engineering efforts
• Evaluate project risks, escalation impacts, labor availability, and schedule implications
• Prepare cost analyses, cash flow projections, and budget updates throughout design progression
• Assist with contract negotiations and procurement strategies
• Participate in owner meetings, design coordination meetings, and executive project reviews
• Maintain and improve estimating systems, cost databases, and historical benchmarking tools
• Support business development efforts by preparing pricing narratives and proposal support documentation
• Ensure alignment between manufacturing schedules and field construction sequencing

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Cost Management
• Strategic Thinking
• Collaboration
• Problem Solving
• Attention to Detail
• Negotiation Skills
• Time Management
• Risk Assessment

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience

• 3–8+ years of estimating or pre-construction experience
• Experience with multifamily, hospitality, student housing, healthcare, or commercial construction preferred
• Modular or off-site construction experience strongly preferred
• Experience preparing conceptual and GMP estimates required

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of construction means and methods
• Advanced quantity takeoff and estimating capabilities
• Proficiency in estimating software and Bluebeam
• Strong Excel and cost modeling skills
• Knowledge of modular manufacturing processes and logistics coordination
• Ability to interpret architectural, structural, MEP, and shop drawings
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously

Preferred Knowledge

• Modular construction processes
• Off-site manufacturing methods
• Quantity takeoffs and conceptual estimating
• Construction scheduling basics
• Value engineering concepts

Technical Knowledge & Software

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite
• Familiarity with estimating software preferred (Sage Estimating, Bluebeam, Procore, OST, PlanSwift, MS Project, Primavera, etc.)
• AutoCAD or Revit exposure

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred.

WORK AUTHORIZATION

All prospective Impact Housing employees need to demonstrate eligibility to work in the U.S. 

COMPENSATION

• Up to $130k - Based on experience
• Health benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA, HSA
• Vacation
• Sick time
• Holiday pay
• Ownership of company equity
• 401K Retirement Plan

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods
• Occasional visits to manufacturing facilities and construction sites
• Ability to review large drawing sets and construction documents

NOTE
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) of this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

Impact Housing is an equal opportunity employer, drug-free workplace, complies with ADA regulations and does not discriminate against any employee or job applicant because of race, color, religion, national origin, medical condition, pregnancy, sex, gender identity, gender expression, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

For more information about Impact Housing, visit ihousing.us.