Construction Estimator

Cannon Building, a premier general contractor in the life sciences, healthcare, commercial/institutional, and industrial sectors, is seeking a seasoned Estimator to develop complex life science and healthcare construction projects in the San Diego region. The construction estimator will produce detailed estimates from preliminary design through construction phase and will liaison professionally with architects and engineers. The Construction Estimator will professionally and proficiently work with conceptual drawings and be able to work efficiently under tight deadlines.

The Construction Estimator projects and controls construction costs by analyzing, collecting and studying project design plans, subcontractors/vendor bids, and jobsite specific information. The Estimator sets the pre-construction budget for the project to control construction and operating costs. This position will work primarily on negotiated commercial projects within our core markets;
Biopharmaceutical, Healthcare, Commercial, Institutional, and Industrial.

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, and design-development, and hard-bid estimates.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from plans and specifications
• Analyze project documents, drawings, and bid packages to determine complete project scope.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, consultants, project managers, and ownership teams during preconstruction.
• Develop and maintain project budgets and cost
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving recommendation
• Assist with bid submissions, proposal preparation, and project hand-off meetings.
• Track material pricing, labor trends and market conditions within Southern CA construction market

• Maintain strong communication with internal teams, subcontractors, vendors, and clients
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, scope reviews, and internal estimating discussions
• Collaborate with operations teams to ensure seamless transition from estimating to construction
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors and suppliers
• Provide timely updates regarding estimate status, pricing gaps, and bid clarifications
• Support a team-oriented and collaborative work environment

• Review bid documents, contracts, and specifications for scope requirements and compliance standards
• Ensure estimates align with project requirements, local building codes, and client expectations
• Assist in reviewing subcontractor inclusions, exclusions, and qualifications
• Maintain organized estimating records and documentation for audit and project tracking purposes
• Support compliance with company policies, contractual obligations, and pre-qualification requirements

• Promote accuracy and completeness in all project estimates and bid submissions
• Support company quality standards by ensuring scope coverage and minimizing estimating gaps
• Consider safety requirements, site logistics, and project-specific conditions during budgeting and planning
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts related to estimating processes and best practices
• Maintain awareness of OSHA standards and construction safety considerations applicable during preconstruction planning

• Travel may be required; the position is based out of the San Diego region, with travel needed for jobs across the company as well as for meetings at our corporate location in Placentia or other areas as required.

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred.
• Experience Requirement: 5+ years of estimating experience within a GC environment
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Technical Software
  
  Skills:
  
  Proficiency in Bluebeam, OST, Procore, Plan Swift, Sage, or similar estimating software
• Must possess a solid understanding of construction design, technical equipment, and quality systems
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
• Strong organizational, analytical, and time management skills
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a…