Construction Estimator

Job Title:

Construction Estimator

Job Description

The Construction Estimator plays a key role in preparing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for commercial construction projects. This position manages all estimate-related documentation, performs detailed quantity verification using estimating software, and develops work breakdown structures to support project planning and budgeting. The role collaborates closely with internal teams, vendors, and labor representatives to gather pricing information, supports subcontractor bidding, and tracks project performance against estimates throughout the construction lifecycle.

Responsibilities

+ Review and control all estimate background documentation, including requests for quotation (RFQ), internal requests for estimate (RFE), correspondence, drawings, and specifications in both paper and electronic formats.

+ Prepare a clear and organized work breakdown structure for each project estimate to support planning and cost tracking.

+ Manage and track the progress of assigned estimates and coordinate requirements with all necessary internal and external parties.

+ Conduct quantity verification for project cost estimates using various software tools and develop computerized takeoff sheets to identify all project costs accurately.

+ Identify potential risks and opportunities for improvement (betterments) for each assigned project and communicate findings to the appropriate leadership.

+ Solicit wage determinations from labor union representatives and obtain material pricing from vendors to support accurate estimates.

+ Assist the purchasing department in preparing subcontractor bid packages and ensuring all necessary information is included.

+ Create complete cost estimates using corporate estimating software, incorporating labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, crew productivity, and other related costs.

+ Prepare estimates for internal review and proposal submission, following established internal processes and using client-provided bid forms as required.

+ Upon award of projects, develop preliminary bills of materials and project budgets based on approved estimates.

+ Collaborate with jobsite personnel to track and report job progress, comparing actual performance to estimated performance, including any changes to the original project scope.

+ Generate estimates, budgets, and tracking updates for change orders and estimate variances that arise during the construction phase.

+ Ensure the accurate and timely preparation of complete cost estimates and drafting projects for all assigned work.

+ Maintain knowledge of internal standards and provide feedback and suggestions to improve department operations, including cost- and time-saving ideas.

+ Participate in professional development or educational programs as requested or required.

+ Adapt to changing priorities and handle additional tasks as assigned.

+ Perform other related duties as assigned by leadership to support project and department goals.

Essential Skills

+ Demonstrated experience in construction estimation, with a focus on commercial construction projects.

+ Proficiency with estimating software and computerized takeoff tools to perform quantity verification and cost analysis.

+ Strong ability to review and interpret RFQs, RFEs, drawings, specifications, and other project documentation.

+ Solid understanding of bidding processes, including preparation of estimates for internal review and proposal submission.

+ Ability to identify project risks and opportunities and communicate findings clearly to stakeholders.

+ Competence in coordinating with labor union representatives and material vendors to obtain accurate pricing and wage information.

+ Skill in preparing detailed work breakdown structures, bills of materials, and project budgets.

+ Strong attention to detail and accuracy in preparing cost estimates and tracking project performance.

+ Ability to collaborate effectively with purchasing teams and jobsite personnel to support project execution.

+ Capacity to manage multiple estimates simultaneously and track progress against deadlines.

+ Willingness and ability to participate in professional development or…