Construction Estimator

Vantage Builders is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Estimator to join our Preconstruction team. The Estimator plays a critical role in the successful planning and execution of commercial construction projects by developing accurate budgets, competitive bids, conceptual estimates, and value-driven pricing strategies.

This individual will collaborate closely with clients, architects, subcontractors, vendors, and internal project teams throughout the preconstruction process to ensure estimates are comprehensive, competitive, and aligned with project goals. The ideal candidate is analytical, proactive, collaborative, and passionate about construction, with the ability to think strategically while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.

At Vantage Builders, estimators are trusted advisors who contribute directly to project success, client relationships, operational planning, and company growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed conceptual estimates, schematic budgets, GMPs, and competitive bids for commercial construction projects.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, narratives, and other project documentation to develop complete and accurate pricing.
• Participate in all phases of the preconstruction process from initial budgeting through final proposal submission.
• Collaborate with Operations, Project Management, and field leadership to align estimates with project execution strategies.
• Assist in developing project logistics plans, phasing approaches, and schedule considerations during preconstruction.
• Develop subcontractor and vendor bid strategies to ensure complete coverage and competitive pricing.
• Solicit, coordinate, and manage subcontractor/vendor pricing throughout the bidding process.
• Conduct detailed scope reviews and bid leveling to identify gaps, overlaps, exclusions, and exposures.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
• Evaluate subcontractor capabilities, qualifications, manpower availability, and market conditions.

Quantity Takeoffs & Cost Analysis

• Perform and/or manage quantity takeoffs across all CSI divisions.
• Develop trade-by-trade pricing analyses using historical cost data, market trends, and project-specific conditions.
• Maintain awareness of material pricing fluctuations, labor market conditions, and industry cost drivers.
• Analyze alternative systems, materials, and construction methods to identify value engineering opportunities.
• Prepare detailed estimate clarifications, assumptions, qualifications, and exclusions.
• Participate in client meetings, design reviews, walkthroughs, and preconstruction presentations.
• Provide budgeting guidance and cost feedback during design development.
• Assist clients and design teams in evaluating project scope, constructability, scheduling, and cost impacts.
• Present estimates clearly and professionally to internal and external stakeholders.
• Support a collaborative and solutions-oriented preconstruction process focused on delivering value to the client.

Risk Management & Strategic Planning

• Identify project risks, scope gaps, constructability concerns, and escalation exposures during estimating.
• Develop proactive recommendations to mitigate financial and operational risks.
• Assist in evaluating procurement strategies and long-lead material considerations.
• Maintain consistency with company estimating standards, procedures, and best practices.

Technology & Process Management

• Utilize estimating software, spreadsheets, takeoff tools, and project management platforms to support estimating efforts.
• Maintain organized bid documentation, subcontractor communications, and estimate records.
• Assist in maintaining historical cost databases and benchmarking information.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to estimating systems, workflows, and data analytics.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred.
• 3–7 years of commercial construction estimating or preconstruction experience.
• Strong understanding of commercial construction methods, materials, systems, and sequencing.
• Ability to read and interpret…