Sr. Estimator
Job ID
272536
Posted
23-Apr-2026
Service line
GWS Segment
Role type
Full-time
Areas of Interest
Construction, Data Centers
Location(s)
Remote - US - Remote - US - United States of America
About the Role:
Direct Line ("DL") is a high growth global technology services company with primary focus in providing design, integration, installation, maintenance and managed services to well-known data center operators and technology companies. Direct Line deploys decades of experience and knowledge through key partnerships with hyperscale technology companies and multi-tenant data center operators that give its clients a competitive marketplace advantage. Direct Line is committed to continually improving our industry through certified training of cutting-edge technicians that deliver superior results with a passion for detail. Direct Line is headquartered in Fremont, California with additional locations in Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, New Mexico, the Pacific Northwest, Asia-Pacific and Europe.
What You'll Do:
Attend bid meetings and site surveys.
Review RFPs to understand scope of work to bid.
Review estimates and revisions for completeness and accuracy.
Execute take-offs of documents.
Work with manufacturers and distribution to obtain pricing for materials.
Work with management to determine labor capabilities and rates, equipment, and other requirements.
Perform project hand-offs with team upon project reward.
Prepare change order pricing for on-going project work when required.
Complete walk-through requests.
Document all measurements.
Complete cut sheets for field team.
What You'll Need:
Expert‑level estimating proficiency in fiber‑centric low‑voltage systems, including SMF/MMF backbone fiber, horizontal distribution, OSP/ISP fiber, high‑count trunk cables, MPO/MTP, patching, and fiber containment systems supporting hyperscale data center campuses.
Strong understanding of hyperscale data center architecture and how fiber infrastructure supports server halls, spine‑leaf topologies, inter‑building connectivity, and phased turnover requirements.
Proven leadership experience within a fiber‑focused low‑voltage contracting environment, leading complete estimating efforts from conceptual budgets through final bids and turnover to operations.
Advanced labor‑driven estimating expertise, including crew composition, production rates for pulling, splicing, terminating, dressing, testing, and labeling high‑density fiber systems across large, repetitive builds.
Deep knowledge of fiber materials and procurement strategies, including long‑lead fiber types, counts, reel management, factory‑terminated vs. field‑terminated solutions, and vendor pricing strategies to remain competitive.
Strong understanding of fiber installation methods and constructability, including pathway congestion, bend‑radius compliance, high‑rack density environments, and coordination with electrical and mechanical trades.
Ability to identify fiber‑specific scope gaps and risk, such as testing requirements (OTDR, insertion loss), commissioning standards, owner acceptance criteria, spare ratios, labeling conventions, and documentation deliverables common to hyperscale clients.
Advanced analytical and mathematical skills, capable of developing conceptual through IFC‑level estimates for multi‑building campuses, including repetitive fiber layouts and scalable labor models.
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy, particularly when reviewing fiber schedules, routing diagrams, standards documents, and RFP scope narratives.
Strong communication skills, capable of leading scope reviews with project managers, field leadership, vendors, and clients, clearly defining inclusions, exclusions, assumptions, and alternates.
Proficiency in estimating and takeoff tools, including Microsoft Office Suite, Bluebeam, and experience maintaining fiber‑specific estimating databases, labor units, and historical cost benchmarks.
Ability to work independently and lead confidently, while collaborating closely with operations and procurement to ensure estimates are executable and aligned with field realities.
Strong time‑management and prioritization skills, with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple hyperscale pursuits, addenda cycles, and aggressive bid schedules.
Experience requirements: Typically 5+ years of fiber‑focused estimating experience, with direct hyperscale or mission‑critical data center project exposure strongly preferred.
Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent industry experience).
Professional certifications such as Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA) are preferred and considered a strong differentiator for a lead role.
Physical Requirements:
Primarily walking, standing, and bending with some sitting.
Ability to communicate effectively with verbal, visual and listening skills.
Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate any required equipment as well as to operate computer keyboard, mouse, and other technical instruments.
Able to lift and carry heavy equipment, up to 50 pounds.
Ability to climb ladders and work on raised platforms.
Why CBRE
When you join CBRE, you become part of the global leader in commercial real estate services and investment that helps businesses and people thrive. We are dynamic problem solvers and forward-thinking professionals who create significant impact. Our collaborative culture is built on our shared values - respect, integrity, service and excellence - and we value the diverse perspectives, backgrounds and skillsets of our people. At CBRE, you have the opportunity to realize your full potential.
Applicant AI Use Disclosure:
We value human interaction to understand each candidate's unique experience, skills and aspirations. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to make hiring decisions, and we ask that candidates disclose any use of AI in the application and interview process.
These updates reflect our commitment to clarity, inclusivity, and a consistent candidate experience across all postings. I ask you to encourage your teams to begin incorporating the updated statements into all new job adverts immediately - this will help us maintain alignment with our brand tone and hiring values.
Our Values in Hiring
At CBRE, we are committed to fostering a culture where everyone feels they belong. We value diverse perspectives and experiences, and we welcome all applications.
Disclaimers
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.
Relocation assistance and sign-on bonuses may be available on select positions only, for qualified candidates based on role requirements and experience.
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CBRE carefully considers multiple factors to determine compensation, including a candidate's education, training, and experience. The maximum salary for the Sr. Estimator position is $130,000 annually. The compensation offered to a successful candidate will depend on their skills, qualifications, and experience. Successful candidates will also be eligible for a discretionary bonus based on CBRE's applicable benefit program. This role will provide the following benefits: 401(K), Dental insurance, Health insurance, Life insurance, and Vision insurance. The application window is anticipated to close on "April 30, 2026" and may be extended as needed. Or to express interest in similar roles, visit CBRE.com/careers.
Equal Employment Opportunity: CBRE has a long-standing commitment to providing equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, veteran status, political belief, or any other basis protected by applicable law.
Candidate Accommodations: CBRE values the differences of all current and prospective employees and recognizes how every employee contributes to our company's success. CBRE provides reasonable accommodations in job application procedures for individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance due to a disability in the application or recruitment process, please submit a request via email at recruitingaccommodations@cbre.com or via telephone at +1 866 225 3099 (U.S.) and +1 866 388 4346 (Canada).
CBRE GWS
CBRE Global Workplace Solutions (GWS) works with clients to make real estate a meaningful contributor to organizational productivity and performance. Our account management model is at the heart of our client-centric approach to delivering integrated real estate solutions. Each client is entrusted with a dedicated leader and is supported by regional and global resources, leveraging the industry's most robust platform. CBRE GWS delivers consistent, measurably superior outcomes for our clients at every stage of the lifecycle, and across industries and geographies.
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CBRE Group, Inc., a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Los Angeles, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (in terms of 2014 revenue). The Company has more than 70,000 employees (excluding affiliates), and serves real estate owners, investors and occupiers through more than 400 offices (excluding affiliates) worldwide. CBRE offers strategic advice and execution for property sales and leasing; corporate services; property, facilities and project management; mortgage banking; appraisal and valuation; development services; investment management; and research and consulting.
As an employee at CBRE, you have the freedom to make your own path. Your career is in your own hands; there’s no need to wait to be shown the way. "It’s about how well you perform, not just how long you’ve worked here and you're encouraged to take intelligent risks and explore new ideas and innovations. Our scale gives you mobility and a broader choice of opportunities. You'll always have a team behind you.