Chief Estimator

Our client is looking for a Chief Estimator to join their team in Rochester, NY.

This position pays 150k - 175k/year DOE.

• Lead and manage the Estimating and Preconstruction Department. Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of self-perform estimators.
• Establish estimating standards, procedures, and best practices to improve consistency and accuracy.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed conceptual, schematic, design development, and final construction estimates.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to develop bidding strategies that align with company goals.

• Solicit, evaluate, and analyze subcontractor and vendor proposals to ensure complete, competitive pricing.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners to expand bid coverage and improve pricing competitiveness.
• Lead scope leveling efforts to ensure all proposals are complete and comparable. Negotiate subcontractor and vendor pricing as needed to maximize project value.

• Work closely with project managers, superintendents, architects, engineers, and design professionals throughout the preconstruction process.
• Participate in design review meetings and provide cost guidance during project development. Support value engineering initiatives to enhance project feasibility, reduce costs, and improve overall client satisfaction.
• Provide a comprehensive and organized handoff of awarded project estimates, assumptions, and scope documentation to the project management team.

• Lead the preparation of bid proposals and project budgets.
• Review estimates and proposals with executive leadership prior to submission.
• Ensure all proposals are complete, accurate, competitive, and submitted on schedule.

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred. 10+ years of progressively responsible commercial construction estimating experience. Previous leadership experience managing estimating teams.
• Strong knowledge of commercial construction methods, materials, labor productivity, and self- perform operations.
• Demonstrated experience in subcontractor procurement, scope analysis, and contract negotiations.
• Proficiency with Sage estimating software, Microsoft Office Suite, and construction management technology.
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high level of accuracy.

• Experience leading estimating efforts for commercial, industrial, institutional, or multi residential projects.
• Strong network of subcontractors and suppliers.
• Knowledge of value engineering, conceptual estimating, budgeting, and cost modeling.
• Experience collaborating with owners, architects, and design teams during preconstruction.