Estimator, Construction, Quantity Surveyor

Job Title:

Chief Estimator

Job Description

This in-person Estimator role, based in Stamford, CT, focuses on preparing complete and accurate estimates and budgets for mid- to high-rise residential and commercial office projects across a variety of contract types, including lump sum and time and material. The Estimator supports ground-up construction, site development, tenant improvements, and tenant fit-outs, and plays a key role in preconstruction, bidding, and business development efforts.

Responsibilities

* Prepare detailed and accurate estimates for materials, labor, equipment, subcontracts, and construction facilities for mid- to high-rise residential and commercial office projects.

* Develop and maintain strong working relationships with subcontractors and suppliers to support competitive and reliable pricing.

* Attend on-site pre-bid and proposal conferences as well as site visits to gather information and clarify project requirements.

* Develop and review subcontractor scopes of work to ensure completeness and alignment with project requirements.

* Accept, review, and analyze subcontractor quotes to determine best value and incorporate them into overall estimates.

* Prepare project bid status reports and ensure all estimates comply with specifications, contract Statements of Work, and Bid Invitations.

* Present cost estimates that support customer proposals, taking into account general and special conditions and project-specific requirements.

* Prepare scope specifications and requirements for projects and ensure they are accurately reflected in estimates.

* Input project schedules into estimating tools and coordinate schedule assumptions with cost projections.

* Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and prepare cost summary sheets to support final pricing and proposals.

* Input quantities and related data into estimating software and maintain accurate electronic records of estimates.

* Maintain an accurate and current database of cost codes and accounts to build and reference historical cost data.

* Utilize appropriate company and industry historical data to support pricing, value engineering, and benchmarking.

* Collaborate with project management, engineering, and other internal teams to clarify scope, resolve discrepancies, and refine estimates.

* Support preconstruction, bidding, and business development activities, including responses to RFPs and preparation of proposal documents.

* Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating processes, tools, and templates by leveraging lessons learned from completed projects.

Essential Skills

* Related estimating experience, preferably in mid- to high-rise residential or commercial office projects.

* Advanced project estimating skills, including value engineering calculations and cost analysis.

* Familiarity with engineering nomenclature to communicate effectively with application engineers, product managers, project managers, engineering teams, and vendors.

* Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex project documents and data.

* Excellent verbal and written communication skills to present estimates and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.

* Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in quantity takeoffs, pricing, and documentation.

* Ability to read, understand, and organize construction plans, drawings, and specifications.

* Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines.

* Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high-quality output.

* Ability to multitask, prioritize workload, and work well under pressure to meet established deadlines.

* Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Excel, Project, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.

* Experience using database software and maintaining historical cost data for estimating purposes.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

* Experience with ground-up construction, site construction, and site development projects.

* Background in multifamily, apartment buildings, and real estate development environments.

* Experience working with general contractors and managing subcontractor relationships.

* Exposure to tenant improvement and tenant fit-out projects, including leasing-related work.

* Experience supporting preconstruction, bidding, and business development activities.

* Familiarity with RFP processes and preparation of comprehensive proposal packages.

* Knowledge of construction supervision and project management practices.

* Understanding of safety practices and standards, including OSHA-related considerations.

* Ability to leverage historical project data to improve estimating accuracy and efficiency.

* Interest in ongoing professional development, including participation in tuition reimbursement programs where available.

Work Environment

This position is based on-site in Stamford, CT, and requires working in person at the office and project locations. The Estimator collaborates closely with project management,…