Construction Estimator

Location: Missoula, Montana
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Construction Estimator to join a growing construction team in Missoula, MT. This position will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive estimates for construction projects from initial bid review through project turnover.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of construction methods, materials, labor, and equipment costs and is comfortable reviewing plans, performing takeoffs, soliciting subcontractor pricing, and developing complete project estimates.

Key Responsibilities

• Review construction drawings, specifications, bid documents, and project requirements.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
• Prepare conceptual, preliminary, and detailed project estimates.
• Solicit pricing from subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors.
• Analyze subcontractor proposals and identify scope gaps or inconsistencies.
• Develop bid packages and complete competitive bid submissions.
• Maintain accurate historical cost information and estimating databases.
• Identify potential project risks, constructability concerns, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Prepare RFIs and communicate with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and vendors during the bidding process.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project walkthroughs.
• Assist with value engineering and alternative construction methods.
• Work closely with Project Managers and Superintendents to ensure estimates reflect realistic field conditions and schedules.
• Conduct project turnover meetings with operations teams following successful awards.
• Track bid results and assist in improving estimating accuracy and overall bid strategy.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of construction estimating experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, labor, equipment, and sequencing.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, civil, structural, and MEP drawings.
• Experience performing detailed quantity takeoffs.
• Strong understanding of subcontractor and supplier scopes.
• Experience with estimating and takeoff software such as Bluebeam, PlanSwift, Procore, BuildingConnected, HCSS, Sage, or similar platforms is preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organization and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field is preferred but not required with equivalent construction experience.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for someone who understands construction beyond simply putting numbers into an estimate. The successful candidate will be able to evaluate how a project will actually be built, recognize potential scope gaps, develop relationships with subcontractors and suppliers, and produce estimates that are both competitive and realistic.

Candidates with hands-on field experience who have transitioned into estimating are encouraged to apply.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary based on experience
• Performance/annual bonus opportunities
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) or retirement plan
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Professional development and advancement opportunities
• Stable, long-term opportunity with a growing construction organization

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.