Development Estimator

Overview

The Development Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimates for commercial real estate development projects. This role supports the development team by providing cost analysis during underwriting, design, and pre-construction phases to ensure project feasibility, budget alignment, and informed decision-making. The ideal candidate combines strong construction knowledge with a development-oriented mindset and the ability to estimate with limited design information.

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, and detailed construction cost estimates for ground-up and redevelopment projects
• Develop and maintain project budgets from feasibility through construction documentation
• Perform quantity takeoffs and pricing based on drawings, specifications, and conceptual narratives
• Evaluate alternative design and construction approaches to optimize costs

• Support development underwriting by providing early-stage cost models and assumptions
• Assist with pro forma development, cost benchmarking, and sensitivity analysis
• Identify cost risks, escalation factors, and contingencies
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and development project managers during design phases
• Review consultant drawings and specifications for cost impacts and constructability
• Track design changes and update estimates accordingly
• Solicit and analyze subcontractor, vendor, and contractor pricing as required
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of material, labor, and market cost trends
• Develop and maintain cost databases and benchmarking tools

• Prepare clear cost reports, summaries, and presentations for internal stakeholders
• Assist with value engineering exercises and cost reconciliation
• Support pre-construction handoff to construction and project management teams

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field (preferred)
• 5+ years of experience in estimating, pre-construction, or development cost analysis
• Experience with commercial real estate projects (office, retail, industrial, or mixed-use)
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and pricing
• Ability to estimate with incomplete or conceptual design information

• Proficiency with estimating and takeoff software (e.g., Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Plan Swift)
• Strong Excel skills and familiarity with development budgets and pro formas
• Experience working with project management platforms (e.g., Procore) a plus

• Experience working for a developer, GC, or design-build firm
• Knowledge of value engineering and life-cycle cost analysis
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• Office-based with collaboration across development and construction teams
• Occasional site visits and consultant meetings