Job Description
Shape the Future of Construction with Van Buskirk as a Project Manager/Estimator
Are you a driven construction professional with strong estimating skills and a passion for leading projects from start to finish? Van Buskirk Companies is hiring a Project Manager/Estimator to support our growing commercial construction division, specializing in retail, office, healthcare, education, and industrial builds. This dual-role position in both preconstruction and project management offers the opportunity to both estimate and manage projects—ideal for someone with field and office experience who’s ready to step fully into estimating while continuing to lead.
You’ll manage budgets, schedules, subcontractors, and client relationships—playing a key role in delivering high-quality results. Experience with AIA contracts and construction software is required. Join our collaborative team and take the next step in your construction career with a company that values precision, accountability, and growth.
What You’ll Do
As a Project Manager / Estimator at Van Buskirk Companies, you'll play a key role in both the preconstruction and project execution phases. This dual-role position offers a unique opportunity to lead projects from concept to completion while applying your estimating expertise to help win work and drive accuracy.
Preconstruction & Estimating
- Review and interpret architectural and engineering drawings, plans, and specifications.
- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and develop accurate cost estimates using manual methods and construction estimating software.
- Distribute bid invitations, manage subcontractor pricing, and conduct thorough scope reviews.
- Participate in value engineering and constructability reviews to improve project outcomes.
- Develop and submit competitive bid proposals for both design-bid and negotiated contract projects.
Project Management
- Oversee awarded projects from contract execution to closeout, ensuring alignment with scope, budget, and schedule.
- Draft, review, and manage AIA A133, A101, and other project contracts and documentation.
- Develop and manage project schedules in coordination with field teams and subcontractors.
- Coordinate subcontractor buyouts and ensure clear scope alignment to minimize change orders.
- Lead project meetings, maintain detailed documentation, and communicate progress with internal and external stakeholders.
- Track and control project costs, manage change orders, and ensure accurate budget reporting.
- Ensure compliance with safety protocols, building codes, and client requirements throughout the project lifecycle.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a well-rounded construction professional who thrives in both the preconstruction and project delivery phases. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys estimating and also wants to stay actively involved in managing projects from contract to closeout. The right candidate brings a strong mix of technical knowledge, leadership ability, and problem-solving skills to keep projects running smoothly and profitably.
Skills & Attributes
- Proven leadership in guiding teams, building accountability, and driving performance across all stages of construction.
- Clear and confident communicator—able to explain complex technical details to diverse audiences.
- Strong relationship builder with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and internal teams.
- Organized, self-directed, and skilled at juggling multiple deadlines and priorities.
- Stays focused and efficient in fast-paced settings with shifting demands.
- Analytical and resourceful, with excellent math, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
- Combines practical experience with creative thinking to resolve project challenges.
- Works closely with field teams and stakeholders to align scope, schedules, and expectations.
- Proactively identifies risks to cost, timelines, and supply chains—and works to prevent issues before they arise.
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field—or equivalent practical experience.
- 8+ years in the construction industry, including at least 3 years estimating and managing commercial projects.
- Demonstrated success delivering projects on time, within budget, and to a high standard of quality.
- Deep knowledge of construction methods, scopes of work, and industry best practices.
- Able to read and interpret complex architectural and engineering drawings across disciplines.
- Proficient in software like Procore, Timberline, Bluebeam, MS Project, and Excel.
- Skilled in Microsoft Office tools including Outlook, Word, Excel, and Teams.
- OSHA 30-Hour Training certification, or willingness to obtain.
- Familiarity with OSHA standards, permitting processes, building codes, and safety regulations.
- Strong business sense and awareness of how project decisions impact company performance.
What We Offer:
Daytime hours with no nights or weekends, ideal for those who value work-life balance.
Competitive wages with potential for performance-based annual pay increases.
Full benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Account, and Employee Assistant Program.
401(k) Retirement Plan and Safe Harbor Company Match.
Short-Term Disability and Voluntary Life and AD&D insurance plans.
Time Off and Leave programs include PTO, Holidays, Bereavement, FMLA, and more.
Who We Are:
Van Buskirk Companies (VBC) is a family-owned company that has continued to live up to its excellent reputation in the Sioux Falls community for over 50 years. Our vision is to “create an extraordinary real estate experience that builds dreams and develops community.” We are a leading full-service real estate and construction company known for our dedication to excellence, superior customer service, and commitment to employee growth and development.
Our Core Values:
- Integrity: We take pride in doing the right thing and build trust with each interaction.
- Teamwork: We value one another and our customers as partners and commit to shared success through positive communication, collaboration, and action.
- Innovation: We think creatively to develop unique solutions to complex challenges.
- Excellence: We continuously learn and grow our capabilities to bring our best work, every day!
- Community: We are united to make a positive impact and build strong relationships where we work and live.
Our Purpose: To provide businesses and families with a place to live, grow, work, and succeed!