Estimator, Construction, Civil Engineering

Job Description

The Estimator prepares complete and accurate cost estimates for commercial construction projects during preconstruction and bidding. This role focuses on analyzing plans and specifications, developing detailed quantity takeoffs, coordinating subcontractor and supplier pricing, and supporting preconstruction efforts through bid submission. The Estimator collaborates closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure competitive, well-documented proposals that support successful project delivery.

Responsibilities

+ Prepare detailed conceptual, schematic, design development, and hard bid estimates for commercial construction projects.

+ Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to develop comprehensive quantity takeoffs and accurate pricing.

+ Solicit subcontractor and supplier proposals, evaluate their scope and pricing, and ensure completeness, accuracy, and competitiveness.

+ Coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, and internal operations teams throughout the preconstruction phase.

+ Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, value engineering opportunities, and project risks, and communicate findings clearly.

+ Assist in preparing bid packages, including clarifications, alternates, qualifications, and proposal documents.

+ Maintain and update historical cost data, unit pricing, and estimating databases to support accurate and efficient estimating.

+ Support project turnover from preconstruction to operations by providing a clear handoff of estimate assumptions, scopes, and budgets.

+ Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and internal estimate reviews to validate project conditions and assumptions.

+ Represent the firm professionally and foster strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and trade partners.

Essential Skills

+ 10+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating, preconstruction services, or closely related roles.

+ Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of technical training and relevant experience.

+ Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, pricing strategies, and current market conditions.

+ Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, and contract documents with a high level of accuracy.

+ Proficiency with estimating software tools used in commercial construction.

+ Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and related applications.

+ Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

+ Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Columbus, OH.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $90000.00 - $120000.00/yr.

Health Care Plan Dental Care Plan 401(K) Plan Life Insurance Employee Assistance Program Wellness Program Paid Vacation & Holidays Paid Bereavement & Parental Leave

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Columbus,OH.

Final date to receive applications

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 13, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a Clearly Rated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccom for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our…