Job Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Commercial & Custom Home Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates and budgets for commercial construction projects and high-end custom residential homes. The Estimator will analyze plans, specifications, and project requirements to develop competitive bids, manage pre-construction budgets, and support project teams from concept through contract award.
The ideal candidate possesses strong construction knowledge, excellent analytical skills, and experience estimating both commercial and custom residential projects.
Key Responsibilities
Estimating & Pre-construction
- Review architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings and specifications.
- Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for commercial and custom residential projects.
- Develop conceptual, schematic, design-development, and final construction budgets.
- Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier bids.
- Maintain current pricing databases for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
- Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving alternatives.
- Analyze project risks and develop appropriate contingencies.
- Prepare bid proposals, scopes of work, and bid summaries.
Project Planning & Coordination
- Collaborate with owners, architects, engineers, and project managers during preconstruction.
- Participate in project walkthroughs, site visits, and pre-bid meetings.
- Assist with project scheduling and procurement planning.
- Support contract negotiations and scope clarification discussions.
- Provide budget updates as plans evolve through design phases.
Cost Control & Reporting
- Track estimate accuracy and compare budgets against actual project costs.
- Generate detailed reports for management and clients.
- Assist project managers with change order pricing and cost analysis.
- Monitor market conditions and pricing trends affecting construction costs.
Business Development Support
- Assist with preparing proposals and presentations for prospective clients.
- Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
- Support the company's efforts to secure profitable projects.
Qualifications
Required
- 5+ years of estimating experience in commercial construction, custom home construction, or both.
- Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and building systems.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
- Experience performing detailed quantity takeoffs.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and construction estimating software.
- Strong mathematical, analytical, and organizational skills.
- Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
- Valid driver's license and ability to visit project sites.
Preferred
- Experience with projects ranging from $500,000 to $20+ million.
- Knowledge of local building codes and permitting requirements.
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field.
- Experience with software such as:
Buildertrend
Procore
Bluebeam
Plan Swift
Sage Estimating
On-Screen Takeoff
Performance Expectations
- Produce accurate estimates within established deadlines.
- Maintain estimate accuracy within company targets.
- Develop strong subcontractor and supplier relationships.
- Consistently identify value engineering opportunities.
- Support profitable project acquisition and successful project execution.
Compensation
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Performance-based bonus opportunities.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Vehicle allowance or mileage reimbursement.
- 401k plan with company match.
Reports To: Director of Construction / Owner / Vice President of Operations
Position Type
Full-Time | In-Office
This role is responsible for estimating both commercial construction projects and luxury custom homes, ensuring projects are awarded at profitable margins while maintaining the company's reputation for quality and client satisfaction.
Pay: $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- commercial construction: 5 years (Preferred)
- Custom Home construction: 5 years (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
