Commercial Construction Estimator

Commercial Construction Estimator

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Construction Estimator to support the planning and preconstruction of commercial building projects from initial concept through final bid. This position is responsible for developing accurate and competitive estimates, reviewing plans and specifications, performing detailed quantity takeoffs, soliciting subcontractor and supplier pricing, and identifying potential cost, scope, and schedule risks.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of commercial construction methods, materials, labor productivity, subcontractor markets, and project sequencing. This individual will work closely with project executives, project managers, superintendents, owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and vendors to develop complete and reliable project budgets.

Projects may include ground-up construction, renovations, tenant improvements, office, retail, healthcare, education, hospitality, industrial, warehouse, mixed-use, and other commercial facilities.

• Prepare detailed conceptual, schematic, design-development, and final construction estimates.
• Perform comprehensive quantity takeoffs from architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings.
• Develop estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, general conditions, and other project costs.
• Review drawings, specifications, addenda, geotechnical reports, and other bid documents to fully understand project scope.
• Identify missing information, scope gaps, constructability concerns, and potential cost risks.
• Prepare preliminary budgets when complete construction documents are not yet available.
• Develop cost models using historical project data, current market pricing, and subcontractor input.
• Maintain organized estimating files and supporting documentation for each project.
• Assist with value engineering and alternate construction solutions to help projects meet budget requirements.
• Provide cost comparisons for different materials, systems, and construction approaches.

• Develop bid packages and scopes of work for subcontractors and suppliers.
• Solicit competitive pricing from qualified subcontractors and vendors.
• Maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and trade partners.
• Review subcontractor proposals for completeness and confirm that all required scope is included.
• Level and compare subcontractor bids to identify exclusions, qualifications, overlaps, and scope gaps.
• Follow up with subcontractors to clarify pricing and resolve discrepancies.
• Ensure adequate subcontractor coverage for major divisions and trades.
• Prepare detailed bid tabs and pricing comparisons.
• Incorporate subcontractor and supplier pricing into the overall project estimate.
• Assist with final bid reviews and management presentations prior to submission.

• Thoroughly review architectural, structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection documents.
• Identify inconsistencies between drawings and specifications.
• Develop RFIs and clarification requests when bid documents are incomplete or conflicting.
• Evaluate constructability and recognize conditions that may affect cost or schedule.
• Understand project logistics, site access, phasing, temporary facilities, safety requirements, and general conditions.
• Evaluate project-specific requirements that may create additional labor, equipment, or material costs.

• Develop detailed estimates by CSI division and trade.
• Analyze historical cost information and apply lessons learned to future estimates.
• Track current material, labor, and subcontractor pricing.
• Evaluate market escalation and procurement risks.
• Develop allowances and contingencies based on project design status and risk.
• Compare current estimates against previous budgets and explain significant cost changes.
• Participate in budget reconciliation meetings with owners, architects, and project teams.
• Provide cost-saving recommendations without compromising project quality or performance.

• Participate in preconstruction-to-operations turnover meetings after project award.
• Provide project managers and superintendents with detailed information regarding estimate assumptions, subcontractor pricing, scope, exclusions, and potential risks.
• Assist the operations team with subcontractor scope development and buyout as needed.
• Review actual project costs against estimated costs to improve future estimating accuracy.
• Participate in post-project reviews and incorporate lessons learned into estimating procedures.

• 3–10+ years of commercial construction estimating or preconstruction experience preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred; equivalent field and estimating experience will also be considered.
• Strong knowledge of commercial construction methods, materials, sequencing, and building systems.
• Experience estimating both ground-up commercial…