Estimator, Construction, Civil Engineering

Job Title:

Estimator

Job Description

The Estimator prepares complete and accurate cost estimates for commercial construction projects during preconstruction and bidding. This role focuses on analyzing plans and specifications, developing detailed quantity takeoffs, coordinating subcontractor and supplier pricing, and supporting preconstruction efforts through bid submission. The Estimator collaborates closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure competitive, well-documented proposals that support successful project delivery.

Responsibilities

+ Prepare detailed conceptual, schematic, design development, and hard bid estimates for commercial construction projects.

+ Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to develop comprehensive quantity takeoffs and accurate pricing.

+ Solicit subcontractor and supplier proposals, evaluate their scope and pricing, and ensure completeness, accuracy, and competitiveness.

+ Coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, and internal operations teams throughout the preconstruction phase.

+ Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, value engineering opportunities, and project risks, and communicate findings clearly.

+ Assist in preparing bid packages, including clarifications, alternates, qualifications, and proposal documents.

+ Maintain and update historical cost data, unit pricing, and estimating databases to support accurate and efficient estimating.

+ Support project turnover from preconstruction to operations by providing a clear handoff of estimate assumptions, scopes, and budgets.

+ Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and internal estimate reviews to validate project conditions and assumptions.

+ Represent the firm professionally and foster strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and trade partners.

Essential Skills

+ 10+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating, preconstruction services, or closely related roles.

+ Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of technical training and relevant experience.

+ Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, pricing strategies, and current market conditions.

+ Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, and contract documents with a high level of accuracy.

+ Proficiency with estimating software tools used in commercial construction.

+ Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and related applications.

+ Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

+ Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

+ Sound judgment, strong attention to detail, and effective decision-making abilities.

+ Understanding of corporate objectives and estimating strategies that influence profitability and project success.

+ Reliable transportation and willingness to attend meetings, site visits, and project-related functions as needed.

+ Stable employment history demonstrating reliability and long-term commitment.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Experience preparing estimates at conceptual, schematic, design development, and hard bid stages.

+ Experience in commercial construction projects with exposure to preconstruction services and bidding processes.

+ Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with owners, design teams, subcontractors, and suppliers.

+ Capability to identify and propose value engineering options that enhance project efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

+ Strong interpersonal skills that support professional representation of the firm and effective collaboration with trade partners.

Work Environment

This position is primarily office-based, providing a professional setting focused on collaboration and detailed project work. The Estimator conducts occasional site visits to assess project conditions and participate in meetings as needed. The role offers a hybrid element with work-from-home on Fridays, supporting work-life balance while maintaining strong team interaction. The organization provides competitive compensation, annual compensation reviews,…