Chief Estimator - Commercial Construction

Chief Estimator – Commercial Construction

A well-established commercial general contractor is seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead its estimating department. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing all estimating activities, developing accurate project budgets, mentoring estimating staff, and supporting business development efforts to secure profitable commercial construction projects.

The ideal candidate is a strategic leader with extensive estimating experience, strong industry relationships, and a proven ability to deliver competitive, accurate estimates on complex commercial projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimating department
• Oversee conceptual estimates, detailed takeoffs, and bid preparation
• Review drawings, specifications, and contract documents
• Develop budgets, GMPs, and value engineering solutions
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, architects, and owners
• Coordinate bid schedules and proposal submissions
• Identify project risks and recommend cost-saving opportunities
• Support business development and project pursuit efforts
• Mentor and develop estimating staff
• Maintain current labor, material, and subcontractor pricing

Qualifications

• 10+ years of commercial construction estimating experience
• 5+ years in an estimating leadership role preferred
• Experience estimating ground-up commercial projects valued at $10M+
• Strong understanding of conceptual estimating, budgeting, and value engineering
• Experience with negotiated, design-build, CMAR, and hard-bid projects
• Proficiency with estimating software, Bluebeam, Excel, and construction management technology
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred

Compensation and Benefits

Salary Range: $160,000–$210,000 per year

• Performance-based bonus
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Vehicle allowance or company vehicle
• Phone and laptop provided
• Long-term leadership and advancement opportunities

Qualified estimating professionals looking to lead a high-performing team and contribute to the growth of a respected commercial contractor are encouraged to apply.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.