Estimator, Construction, Quantity Surveyor

Trillium Construction is now seeking a Construction Cost Estimator for our client in Rancho Cucamonga, CA for a direct-hire opportunity!

Compensation: $100,000 - $132,000 (Salary). This position is ideal for an estimator with multifamily construction experience who enjoys working on projects from the earliest planning stages through preconstruction and project buyout. You’ll play a critical role in developing conceptual budgets, maintaining historical cost models, supporting project planning, and ensuring projects are positioned for success before construction begins.

This role reports directly to the Vice President of Construction Estimating and works closely with Project Managers, Project Engineers, Construction Managers, design consultants, and third‑party general contractors throughout the pre-development and estimating process.

• Ground‑up multifamily and affordable housing developments
• Average project size: 75 units
• Approximately 100,000 GSF
• Average construction value of $35 million

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, and final construction cost estimates.
• Develop quantity takeoffs using conceptual and evolving design documents.
• Maintain and continuously improve the company’s Historical Cost Model.
• Forecast project costs using historical data and conceptual information.
• Evaluate construction methods, materials, labor, equipment, and overall cost effectiveness.
• Perform site evaluations and review reports, studies, and regulatory requirements during pre-development.
• Prepare project budgets, scopes of work, bid packages, construction contracts, and buyout documentation.
• Coordinate and manage subcontractor bidding and project buyout activities.
• Review plans and specifications to identify omissions, scope gaps, and pricing risks.
• Analyze completed projects by comparing estimated versus actual costs and documenting variances.
• Assist with value engineering efforts and cost‑saving recommendations.
• Develop preliminary CPM schedules for budgeting and planning purposes.
• Participate in owner, consultant, architect, and project team meetings.
• Coordinate site walks with subcontractors to evaluate existing conditions.
• Assist in logistics planning and translate site conditions into project costs.
• Review land acquisition opportunities and evaluate construction feasibility.
• Manage design consultants during pre-development to ensure constructability, quality, and budget alignment.
• Monitor permitting activities and coordinate with local municipalities and regulatory agencies.
• Support project teams throughout preconstruction while ensuring projects remain on budget and schedule.
• Perform periodic site visits to monitor project progress and validate estimating assumptions.
• Complete additional duties as assigned.

• Minimum 2 years of multifamily construction experience.
• Minimum 2 years of construction estimating experience.
• Experience estimating Type III/V wood‑frame and Type I podium multifamily projects is required.
• Strong understanding of construction means and methods.
• Experience preparing conceptual estimates utilizing quantity takeoffs and historical cost models.
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, cost forecasting, value engineering, and preconstruction planning.
• Ability to independently prepare estimates from conceptual design through final bid.
• Experience developing and managing CPM schedules.
• Experience working with cities, counties, and permitting agencies is preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Business, or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred.

• Bluebeam
• Procore Financials
• Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Outlook
• Microsoft Project
• Smartsheet

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with architects, consultants, subcontractors, owners, and internal project teams.
• Strong understanding of project budgeting, forecasting, procurement, and construction contracts.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

• Salaried position
• Approximately 80% office / 20% field
• Local Southern California travel required
• Vehicle allowance or mileage reimbursement negotiable during onboarding
• Exposure to active construction sites and varying weather conditions
• Regular standing, walking, sitting, driving, and computer work required

Trillium is an Equal Opportunity Employer.