Chief Estimator

Chief Estimator, Miami, FL ($80k-130k)

A hybrid, high-impact role responsible for driving new business opportunities while managing procurement strategies and preparing accurate cost estimates for construction projects specializing in architectural panels (ACM), metal systems, and steel fabrication/installation. This position bridges sales strategy, supplier negotiations, and technical estimating to ensure profitable growth, competitive pricing, and strong client and vendor relationships.

• Identify, pursue, and develop new business opportunities within commercial, architectural, and specialty construction markets.
• Maintain and actively leverage relationships with clients, general contractors, architects, developers, and owners.
• Participate in networking events, prequalification processes, and industry meetings.
• Support proposal development, presentations, and pricing strategies to secure new projects.
• Track leads, bids, and client interactions in coordination with leadership.

• Prepare conceptual, budgetary, design‑assist, and hard‑bid estimates for ACM panels, steel framing, louvers, canopies, and custom metal systems.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from architectural and structural drawings.
• Develop accurate labor, material, fabrication, logistics, equipment, and installation costs.
• Assist with value engineering solutions to improve cost efficiency while maintaining design intent and performance.
• Coordinate with engineering, fabrication, and field teams to validate constructability.

• Source, evaluate, and negotiate with material suppliers, fabricators, and subcontractors.
• Leverage established supplier relationships to secure competitive pricing, lead times, and favorable terms.
• Issue RFQs, analyze vendor proposals, and support buyout decisions.
• Monitor material pricing trends, availability, and supply chain risks.
• Support procurement planning to align with project schedules and budgets.

• Review bid documents, specifications, and contracts for scope clarity and risk exposure.
• Assist leadership in go/no‑go decisions based on pricing, capacity, and risk.
• Prepare clear scope letters, inclusions, exclusions, and alternates.
• Support change order pricing and negotiation as needed.

• Maintain organized estimating and procurement records.
• Track historical cost data to improve future estimates.
• Coordinate closely with Project Management, Operations, and Finance teams to ensure alignment from bid to execution.

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Engineering, Architecture, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5–10+ years of experience in construction estimating, procurement, or business development, preferably with ACM panels and steel systems.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain active relationships with clients and suppliers.
• Strong understanding of construction drawings, specifications, and means and methods.
• Experience negotiating pricing and managing vendor relationships.
• Proficiency with estimating software, spreadsheets, and takeoff tools.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and organizational skills.

• Experience in specialty subcontracting, architectural metals, or steel fabrication.
• Familiarity with design‑build or design‑assist projects.
• Knowledge of South Florida or similar competitive construction markets.
• Business development or sales performance tied to revenue growth.

• Relationship‑driven business development
• Cost analysis and estimating accuracy
• Strategic sourcing and procurement
• Negotiation and persuasion
• Cross‑functional collaboration
• Time management and prioritization

• Office‑based with site visits, client meetings, and supplier visits as required.
• Fast‑paced environment with multiple bids and deadlines.
• Occasional travel for business development and procurement activities.
• Full‑time position with competitive salary based on experience.
• Collaboration with a dynamic and experienced team.

Reports to Executive Leadership,…