Senior Estimator

Company Overview

At Pioneer, you're more than an employee, you’re an owner. As a 100% employee‑owned company, everyone shares our success through our ESOP retirement plan. We specialize in custom unitized curtain wall systems and are known for our innovative designs, award‑winning technology, and commitment to quality. With offices across the Midwest and East Coast, we’re growing—and so can your career.

Pioneer provides a comprehensive benefits package for full‑time employees, which includes medical, dental, vision, critical illness, and accident coverage. The company also offers employer‑paid life insurance, short‑ and long‑term disability, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), tuition reimbursement, and a 401(k) plan with a 4% company match. Committed to supporting work‑life balance, Pioneer offers flexible work schedules to help employees thrive both professionally and personally.

The Senior Estimator plays a key role in supporting Sales, Project Management, Engineering, and Field Operations by developing detailed labor and material estimates for exterior facades, specializing in custom unitized curtain wall projects. This position involves analyzing project documentation, applying insights from past projects, and preparing competitive bids. Strong communication skills are essential, as the Senior Estimator will present findings to both clients and internal teams.

In addition to the key responsibilities, the Senior Estimator mentors and trains Estimator I and II.

Scope Analysis

• Lead the review of architectural and engineering documents to fully understand project requirements.
• Identify, assess, and document any custom or unique project elements unfamiliar to Pioneer.
• Collaborate with internal teams to determine efficient, cost‑effective solutions.
• Ensure the final contract scope aligns with the originally proposed scope.
• Own the SFE and lead discovery of all unknown situations, including products, manufacturing, logistics, etc.

Labor Estimation

• Oversee, validate, and approve labor estimates for shop, engineering, field, and project management teams.
• Utilize historical data and established estimating standards to inform calculations.

Material Estimation

• Oversee and validate material quantities and specifications for materials such as extrusions, dies, and finishes.
• Review and approve vendor pricing strategies to ensure alignment with project specifications and cost‑effectiveness.
• Vet vendors and recommend those to include in the proposal. Ensure Estimator I and II obtain multiple qualified vendor quotes.

Problem Solving

• Partner with internal teams to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Maintain strong vendor and team relationships and engage in negotiations as required for risk, scope, or pricing resolution.

Project Handoff

• Ensure a smooth transition of awarded projects to internal teams, clearly documenting all pre‑sale commitments.
• Lead and support teams in interpreting project details and requirements.

Work Management

• Prioritize tasks effectively to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Adhere to established work processes and continuously improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Make timely, informed decisions and communicate clearly with all stakeholders.
• Propose and approve creative, relevant solutions to complex project challenges.

• Bachelor’s degree in applied science or a related technical field preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in estimating glass and glazing.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting construction and project management documents.
• Proven ability to lead complex estimating efforts and mentor junior staff.
• Familiarity with basic engineering and architectural principles.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Willingness to travel up to 10%.