Senior Estimator

Senior Estimator

Location: Irvine, CA

Compensation: $130,000 - $160,000 base salary + bonus

About the Role

We are partnering with a growing 100% employee owned, general contracting company seeking a Senior Estimator to support preconstruction and develop reliable budgets and competitive bids.

This role will guide estimates from early planning through final pricing, helping teams understand scope, evaluate cost options, and make informed decisions before construction begins. The Senior Estimator will work closely with project teams, design partners, and subcontractors to identify gaps and build a clear basis for each proposal.

The ideal candidate combines detailed estimating experience with practical construction knowledge and the judgment to assess incomplete information, clarify assumptions, and communicate risk.

What You'll Do

• Lead conceptual, budget, and detailed estimates based on drawings, specifications, site conditions, and available project information.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop pricing for labor, materials, equipment, subcontracted work, and general conditions.
• Review bid documents and addenda to identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, exclusions, and cost or schedule exposure.
• Develop bid packages, solicit subcontractor proposals, and compare coverage to establish complete and consistent pricing.
• Work with project and design teams to evaluate value engineering options while protecting the project’s intended function and quality.
• Document assumptions, allowances, contingencies, and qualifications so stakeholders understand the basis of each estimate.
• Support bid reviews and presentations, then transfer pricing and scope information to operations following award.
• Maintain cost information, strengthen subcontractor relationships, and use completed-project feedback to improve future estimates.

What We're Looking For

• Senior-level estimating experience with a general contractor or a comparable construction organization.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings and specifications and evaluate scope across multiple trades.
• Experience preparing takeoffs, developing budgets, soliciting bids, and leveling subcontractor proposals.
• Understanding of construction sequencing, general conditions, procurement, and the factors that affect project cost.
• Proficiency with estimating, digital takeoff, and spreadsheet tools.
• Clear communication, sound commercial judgment, and the ability to manage competing bid deadlines.

Why This Role Stands Out

This role offers the opportunity to shape projects before work begins in the field. Your estimates and recommendations will help teams select practical approaches, understand financial exposure, and start construction with a well-defined scope.

Workspire Insight

At Workspire, we partner exclusively with organizations that value experienced leadership, operational discipline, and long term investment in talent. Every opportunity we represent is vetted for impact, advancement potential, and cultural alignment because where and how you work matters.

EEO Statement

Workspire and our client partners are proud to be equal opportunity employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.