Senior Estimator in Ashland, Virginia

Senior Estimator

M.L. Bell Construction is a commercial general contractor based in Ashland, Virginia, providing land development, construction management, design-build, and general contracting services. The company approaches every project with the philosophy, "Build It Like You Own It," reflecting a commitment to quality, accountability, and long-term value. This mindset means projects are treated as if they were being built for the company itself, encouraging careful stewardship of client resources.

M.L. Bell Construction views each project as a true partnership with the owner, emphasizing trust, collaboration, and shared goals. Strong, lasting relationships with clients are considered the most important outcome of every engagement.

The Senior Estimator role is a full-time, on-site position located in Ashland, VA. This role is responsible for preparing detailed cost estimates for commercial construction projects, including analyzing drawings and specifications, quantifying materials and labor, and soliciting and evaluating subcontractor and supplier bids. The Senior Estimator collaborates closely with project managers, engineers, architects, and clients to clarify scope, identify value-engineering options, and ensure estimates align with project goals and constraints.

Daily activities include reviewing bid documents, developing budgets, updating cost databases, tracking market pricing, and preparing clear, comprehensive proposals. The role also supports preconstruction planning, risk assessment, and schedule development, while contributing to continuous improvement of estimating processes and tools.

Candidates should possess strong estimating and preconstruction skills, including quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, budgeting, and bid preparation for commercial projects.

Candidates should possess technical construction knowledge, including familiarity with building systems, materials, methods, and reading and interpreting plans, specifications, and contracts.

Candidates should possess proficiency with estimating and construction software, such as digital takeoff tools, cost databases, and general office applications (e.g., Excel, Word).

Candidates should possess project coordination and collaboration skills, including working effectively with project managers, subcontractors, suppliers, designers, and clients.

Candidates should possess strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines.

Candidates should possess clear written and verbal communication skills, including preparing professional proposals and explaining assumptions and recommendations.

Candidates should possess relevant experience in commercial construction estimating; prior experience as a lead or senior estimator is highly beneficial.

Candidates should possess a high level of integrity and commitment to quality, with alignment to the company's "Build It Like You Own It" philosophy; a degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field is preferred but equivalent experience is also valued.