Estimator, Construction, Civil Engineering

Job Title:

Estimator

Job Description

This Estimator role focuses on developing accurate conceptual through detailed estimates for a wide range of commercial construction projects, including renovations, tenant improvements, site and civil work, structural packages, and MEP-intensive scopes. The Estimator will lead quantity takeoffs, manage subcontractor bidding and scope leveling, and build complete estimates organized by CSI division. This position plays a key role in supporting preconstruction efforts from early pricing through award and turnover, ensuring projects are competitively priced, well-documented, and aligned with client and project requirements.

Responsibilities

* Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, construction document, and guaranteed maximum price estimates for commercial construction projects.

* Develop alternates and value-engineering options that improve cost efficiency while maintaining design intent and project quality.

* Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for architectural, structural, civil, and MEP scopes using plans, specifications, and related documents.

* Identify scope gaps, overlaps, and inconsistencies in drawings and specifications and communicate them clearly to the project team.

* Solicit, scope, and level subcontractor and supplier proposals across all trades to ensure complete and competitive coverage.

* Evaluate and compare subcontractor bids, confirm inclusions and exclusions, and address clarifications and assumptions with bidders.

* Build comprehensive estimate summaries and schedules of values, organized by CSI division and project phase.

* Document and present estimate assumptions, inclusions, exclusions, clarifications, contingencies, and risk items to internal and external stakeholders.

* Maintain, update, and improve cost databases, unit prices, assemblies, and historical benchmarks to enhance estimating accuracy.

* Lead and coordinate pre-bid requests for information, review addenda, and incorporate changes into estimates in a timely manner.

* Provide constructability, means-and-methods, and sequencing input during preconstruction to help optimize project delivery.

* Partner closely with project managers to support smooth turnover from preconstruction to operations, including buy-out strategy and budget tracking.

* Contribute to schedule-based estimating by aligning quantities and costs with project phasing, milestones, and logic.

* Support owner and design team meetings by presenting cost information, options, and recommendations clearly and professionally.

* Communicate effectively with internal teams, subcontractors, suppliers, owners, and design professionals throughout the estimating and preconstruction process.

Essential Skills

* 5-10 years of estimating experience with a commercial general contractor or equivalent construction organization.

* Proven ability to prepare conceptual through detailed estimates for commercial renovations, tenant improvements, site/civil work, structural packages, and MEP-intensive scopes.

* Demonstrated proficiency across CSI Divisions 02-33, including coordination and integration of MEP scopes.

* Strong command of quantity takeoff techniques and scope leveling for architectural, structural, civil, and MEP trades.

* Track record of effective bid-day organization, including managing multiple subcontractor bids and last-minute changes.

* Hands-on experience using estimating software and digital tools for commercial construction.

* Proficiency with Autodesk Forma for model-based or design-integrated estimating workflows.

* Proficiency with Pro Est or similar estimating platforms to develop, organize, and report estimates.

* Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including formulas, data organization, and reporting for estimating and cost analysis.

* Solid understanding of building codes, permitting processes, and requirements related to Ohio public and private projects.

* Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear estimate documentation and reports.

* Ability to lead preconstruction discussions, present cost options, and negotiate effectively with subcontractors and suppliers.

* High attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work under deadlines in a bid-driven environment.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

* Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field is preferred; relevant experience may substitute for formal education.

* Experience with commercial construction management processes, including preconstruction, buy-out, and budget tracking.

* Exposure to Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows is a plus.

* Familiarity with schedule-based estimating and the integration of cost and time for project planning.

* Experience supporting owner and design team meetings by providing clear and concise cost feedback and value options.

* Ability to contribute to maintaining and improving historical cost databases, unit prices, and…