Inspection Experts, Inc.
9250 Rumsey Road, Suite 106
Columbia, MD 21045
Location: Kansas City, MO (Remote, some local travel as applicable)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $75-$85K
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Construction Estimator to support both federal government contracts and local commercial construction projects. This role is responsible for reviewing plans and specifications, performing detailed quantity takeoffs, and developing complete, accurate construction cost estimates from conceptual through final pricing.
The ideal candidate understands how projects are actually built, can interpret complex drawings and specifications, and is comfortable coordinating with operations, subcontractors, and project managers to deliver competitive and compliant bids.
Key Responsibilities
- Review architectural, structural, civil, mechanical, and electrical plans and specifications
- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work
- Prepare full construction estimates including:
- Direct and indirect costs
- Labor productivity and crew composition
- General conditions and overhead
- Contingencies and risk factors
- Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier quotes
- Develop pricing for federal solicitations, including:
- Scope compliance reviews
- Davis-Bacon wage considerations
- FAR/DFARS requirements as applicable
- Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, and operations teams to validate constructability and execution approach
- Participate in pre-bid meetings, site walks, and scope reviews
- Support value engineering and cost-saving recommendations
- Maintain historical cost data and lessons learned for future estimates
- Assist with bid packaging, reviews, and final submissions
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience as a Construction Estimator (commercial, federal, or mixed portfolio)
- Demonstrated ability to review plans and produce a complete, start-to-finish construction estimate
- Strong understanding of construction means and methods
- Experience with federal construction projects strongly preferred
- Working knowledge of Davis-Bacon wage determinations
- Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, PlanSwift, Sage, HCSS, or similar)
- Strong Excel skills and comfort working with detailed cost models
- Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience estimating for federal agencies (USACE, GSA, VA, DoD, etc.)
- Familiarity with negotiated procurements and RFP responses
- Background in self-perform work (GC or specialty trades)
- Local Kansas City market knowledge (subcontractors, suppliers, labor conditions)
Other Duties
This job description outlines the primary functions of the role but is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or activities. Responsibilities may change, and additional duties may be assigned as business needs evolve.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
Inspection Experts, Inc. (IEI) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IEI provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and does not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
What We Offer
- 401(k) with company matching
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off (PTO)
- Professional development assistance
- Stable backlog of federal and commercial work
- Collaborative, operations-driven environment where estimators’ input actually matters
About Our Company
Inspection Experts, Inc. is a woman-owned small business with a proven track record in facility, infrastructure, and technology development projects for government and private sector clients. Our success is driven by our people, and we are committed to fostering a collaborative environment that values integrity, professionalism, and service excellence.