Senior Construction Estimator

Join to apply for the Senior Construction Estimator role at Karkela Construction

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced

Senior Estimator to join our team and lead the estimating efforts for specialized construction projects in the
dental, veterinary, and other medical-outpatient environments
. The ideal candidate has a strong background in commercial construction estimating, deep knowledge of building requirements for clinical spaces, and the ability to deliver accurate, detailed cost estimates that support competitive bidding and successful project execution.

• Lead the complete estimating process
  for dental and veterinary construction projects, including conceptual, schematic, design-development, and final bid estimates.
• Review drawings, specifications, and RFP documents
  to develop comprehensive quantity take-offs, scope clarifications, and pricing.
• Evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals
  , ensuring alignment with project requirements and identifying gaps or overlaps in scope.
• Build and maintain detailed cost models
  specific to dental/veterinary construction, including specialty equipment integration, medical gases, cabinetry/millwork, imaging rooms, infection-control requirements, and mechanical/electrical systems.
• Collaborate with project managers, architects, engineers, and clients
  to clarify project scope, discuss value-engineering options, and support pre-construction planning.
• Identify project risks and opportunities
  and provide recommendations that improve accuracy, competitiveness, and profitability.
• Participate in client presentations
  and support business development efforts by helping prepare budgets, narratives, and proposal documents.
• Maintain updated historical cost data
  , market pricing trends, subcontractor resources, and vendor relationships.
• Support and mentor junior estimators
  , enhancing the team’s accuracy, consistency, and efficiency.

• 7–10+ years of estimating experience
  in commercial construction; experience with dental, veterinary, medical, or healthcare interiors strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of
  specialty MEP systems
  , clinical cabinetry, imaging equipment requirements, and infection-control design considerations.
• Proficiency with
  estimating software
  (e.g., Bluebeam, Plan Swift, Pro Est, Sage, or similar).
• Strong knowledge of
  construction means and methods
  , building codes, and cost-management practices.
• Excellent skills in
  quantity take-offs, cost analysis, subcontractor scoping, and bid leveling
  .
• High attention to detail and ability to work under tight deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to work collaboratively across teams and with clients.

• Mid-Senior level

• Full-time

• Management and Manufacturing

• Construction