Chief Estimator

Careerscape is recruiting on behalf of our client, a well-established general contractor, for a Chief Estimator to lead all preconstruction and estimating efforts across a growing portfolio of commercial and industrial projects. This is a top-of-ladder opportunity for a construction professional who has spent a career mastering takeoffs, bid strategy, and subcontractor negotiations and is ready to own the estimating function at the highest level.

Day to day, you will run point on the largest and most complex bids the company pursues, mentoring a team of estimators while personally shaping win strategy on marquee projects. The right person thrives under bid-deadline pressure, reads a drawing set like a second language, and is equally comfortable in a trailer with superintendents and in the boardroom with ownership discussing risk and margin.

Responsibilities

• Lead full-cycle estimating for large-scale commercial and industrial construction projects
• Develop and defend bid strategy, pricing, and win themes in front of executive leadership
• Oversee quantity takeoffs, unit pricing, and cost databases across the estimating department
• Solicit, qualify, and negotiate scopes with subcontractors and material suppliers
• Review construction documents, specifications, and addenda for completeness and risk exposure
• Manage the bid calendar and ensure on-time, accurate submission of all proposals
• Mentor and develop junior and mid-level estimators across multiple offices
• Present final estimates, GMPs, and value engineering options to clients and ownership
• Collaborate with project management and preconstruction teams during buyout and handoff
• Maintain historical cost data and benchmarks to improve future estimate accuracy

Requirements

• 15+ years of progressive experience in commercial or industrial construction estimating
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred
• Proven track record leading estimates on projects exceeding 25 million dollars
• Expert-level proficiency with estimating software such as Sage, ProEst, or Bluebeam
• Deep knowledge of construction means, methods, and current material and labor markets
• Strong background in subcontractor negotiation and scope leveling
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing an estimating team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for client and executive presentations
• Ability to travel to job sites and client offices as needed

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401k plan with employer match
• Generous paid time off and paid holidays
• Annual performance bonus eligibility
• Company vehicle or vehicle allowance
• Life and disability insurance
• Professional development and continuing education support
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
• Employee assistance program
• Career path toward VP of Preconstruction