Estimator

Key Responsibilities

• Review architectural, structural, civil, MEP, and other construction drawings, specifications, and addenda to fully understand project scope.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for all divisions of work (concrete, masonry, steel, finishes, specialties, MEP, sitework, etc.).
• Solicit, receive, analyze, and scope subcontractor and supplier bids/quotes; negotiate pricing and clarify scopes to ensure complete coverage.
• Develop accurate cost estimates including labor, material, equipment, subcontractor costs, general conditions, overhead, profit, bonds, insurance, and contingencies.
• Prepare conceptual / schematic design estimates, design development budgets, and guaranteed maximum price (GMP) or hard-bid proposals.
• Identify value engineering opportunities, constructability issues, and potential project risks; present alternatives to project teams and clients.
• Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, architects, engineers, and owners during pre-bid and preconstruction phases.
• Assemble clear, professional bid proposals, scope clarifications, and bid documents for submission.
• Participate in bid reviews, post-bid clarifications, and turnover meetings to operations teams.
• Maintain and update unit cost databases, historical cost data, and estimating templates/software.
• Support marketing efforts by providing conceptual budgets and assisting with proposal narratives when needed.
• Stay current on market pricing trends, labor rates, material costs, and construction best practices in the commercial sector.

Required Qualifications

• 3–8+ years of progressive estimating experience in commercial construction (office, retail, healthcare, hospitality, industrial, or similar).
• Proven track record preparing competitive bids as a general contractor estimator (experience with both hard-bid and negotiated/GMP projects preferred).
• Strong ability to read and interpret complex construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.
• Excellent mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in construction estimating software (e.g., Procore, PlanSwift, Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Sage Estimating/Timberline, DESTINI, or similar).
• Solid understanding of commercial construction means and methods, building codes, and industry standards.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for working with subcontractors, vendors, design teams, and internal staff.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or related field (or equivalent field experience).
• Experience with conceptual estimating, design-assist projects, and/or public sector/commercial bidding.
• Familiarity with LEED/sustainable construction practices and cost impacts.
• OSHA 10 or 30 certification.
• Local market knowledge (regional material/labor pricing and subcontractor networks).