Estimator, Construction, Construction Sales

Overview

Foundation Building Materials (FBM) is a leading construction materials distribution company serving the commercial and residential construction markets across United States and Canada. In conjunction with Unified Door & Hardware Group (UDHG), FBM supports a broad range of construction and architectural projects nationwide. Together, FBM and UDHG’s 8,000+ Team Members are committed to operational excellence, innovation, and employee development. By combining scale, specialty expertise, and a customer-first mindset, we deliver high-quality products and services to contractors, builders, and project teams across diverse markets.

As the organization continues to grow and evolve following the recent acquisition by Lowe’s, we are investing in strong, forward-thinking talent to support our long-term success.

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, timely, and competitive material estimates that support Foundation Building Materials’ commercial and residential sales efforts. This role works closely with Outside Sales Representatives, contractors, project managers, and branch operations to review project documents, perform material takeoffs, and develop pricing proposals aligned with project scope and margin objectives. The Estimator translates construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents into clear, comprehensive quotes that position FBM as a reliable partner.

This role requires attention to detail, construction knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Commercial Estimating & Takeoffs:
  Review drawings, specifications, addenda, and bid documents to develop material takeoffs and cost estimates; prepare detailed estimates for drywall, acoustical and related commercial building materials; identify scope requirements, exclusions, alternates, and assumptions to ensure clarity in proposals.
• Pricing & Proposal Development:
  Develop competitive pricing proposals aligned with project scope, market conditions, and margin objectives; collaborate with internal Sales and Operations, manufacturers and vendors to confirm product availability, lead times, logistics, and installation constraints; prepare bid packages and value‑engineering options as required.
• Customer & Sales Support:
  Partner with commercial sales representatives to support contractor relationships and project pursuits; respond to customer questions related to scope, quantities, specifications, pricing and installation procedures; participate in pre-bid meetings, scope reviews, and post-bid clarifications.
• Project Tracking & Coordination:
  Track active bids, awarded projects, and lost opportunities to support forecasting; facilitate the project from estimating stage through completion, including submittal, sample and shop drawing processes, creating customer orders, issuing purchase orders, and scheduling material delivery; assist customers with installation training and technical support; maintain organized estimating records and bid documentation.
• Process Improvement & Market Awareness:
  Stay current on commercial construction trends and product developments; identify opportunities to improve estimating accuracy, efficiency, and standardization; support continuous improvement initiatives within estimating and commercial sales functions.
• Additional Responsibilities:
  Perform other duties as assigned to support branch, regional, or commercial operations objectives.

• Experience:
  
  3+ years of estimating experience in commercial construction, building materials distribution, or related construction disciplines.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Ability to read and interpret commercial construction drawings and specifications.
• Estimating Tools:
  Experience with takeoff and estimating software preferred (e.g., On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, Plan Swift).
• Construction Knowledge:
  Working knowledge of drywall, framing, insulation, and related commercial construction systems preferred.
• Analytical
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple bids, projects, and deadlines.
• Communication:
  Effective written and verbal communication with a…