Chief Estimator - Construction

The Chief Estimator is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of the estimating and preconstruction function within a commercial general contracting environment. This position drives bid strategy, cost accuracy, and competitive positioning across a diverse project portfolio while partnering closely with executive leadership, operations, and business development teams. The role is instrumental in scaling estimating capabilities, enhancing operational efficiency, and contributing to overall business growth and profitability.

• Lead and manage all estimating and preconstruction activities across multiple commercial construction projects
• Develop and execute bid strategies, including risk assessment, pricing approach, and competitive positioning for both public and private sector opportunities
• Oversee the preparation of detailed, accurate cost estimates using advanced tools and methodologies
• Collaborate with operations, field teams, and executive leadership to align estimating outputs with project execution and financial goals
• Build, mentor, and scale the estimating team, fostering accountability, performance, and continuous improvement
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, clients, and design partners to support successful bid outcomes
• Drive improvements in estimating processes, tools, and data analytics to enhance accuracy and efficiency
• Support business development efforts through client engagement, proposal development, and presentation delivery
• Manage budgets, forecasting, and cost models across the project lifecycle to ensure profitability targets are met
• Integrate and optimize cross-functional workflows between estimating, operations, and field execution teams
• Assume ownership of high-visibility estimating responsibilities previously held by senior leadership and establish credibility within the organization
• Contribute to the strategic growth and scalability of the general contracting platform as project complexity increases

• Ten or more years of progressive estimating leadership experience within a commercial general contracting environment
• Demonstrated expertise in hard bid estimating, including bid strategy development, risk evaluation, and competitive positioning
• Proficiency in industry-standard estimating and project management tools, including Bluebeam, Procore, and advanced Excel-based systems
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop high-performing estimating or preconstruction teams
• Strong financial and operational acumen, including experience managing budgets, forecasting, and cost controls
• Advanced knowledge of construction means, methods, materials, and sequencing
• Ability to translate technical project requirements into accurate and strategic cost estimates
• Experience building and leveraging relationships with clients, subcontractors, and design professionals
• Strong communication and presentation skills across both technical and executive audiences
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a focus on growth, scalability, and continuous improvement
• Highly analytical with strong attention to detail and follow-through
• Proactive problem-solving capabilities and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Comfortable operating in a high-visibility leadership role requiring influence and decisive communication