The Construction Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for ground-up multifamily, affordable housing, mixed-use, reconstruction, renovation, and rehabilitation projects. This role plays a vital part in the preconstruction process by developing conceptual budgets, performing quantity takeoffs, coordinating subcontractor pricing, and identifying opportunities to maximize project value while maintaining quality and budget objectives.
The ideal candidate has experience estimating multifamily construction projects and possesses a strong understanding of construction methods, building envelope systems, structural repairs, occupied renovations, and preconstruction planning. This role works closely with Project Managers, Operations, architects, consultants, and subcontractors throughout the estimating process.
- Prepare conceptual budgets, design development estimates, and detailed bid proposals for multifamily construction projects.
- Review plans, specifications, reports, and bid documents to develop comprehensive project cost estimates.
- Perform quantity takeoffs and pricing analysis across all construction trades.
- Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and vendor proposals to ensure complete scope coverage.
- Develop detailed bid summaries, cost breakdowns, and project budget reports.
- Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, and project risks during the estimating process.
- Participate in value engineering efforts and recommend cost-effective solutions while maintaining project quality and performance.
- Collaborate with Project Managers, Superintendents, architects, consultants, and ownership teams throughout the preconstruction phase.
- Assist with procurement planning, scheduling reviews, and constructability evaluations.
- Prepare RFIs, bid packages, and other preconstruction documentation.
- Maintain historical cost databases, subcontractor relationships, and current market pricing.
- Support project turnover by ensuring a smooth transition from estimating to operations.
- 5–10+ years of experience in construction estimating or preconstruction.
- Strong experience estimating ground-up multifamily, affordable housing, mixed-use, reconstruction, or renovation projects required.
- Experience with occupied multifamily renovations, building rehabilitation, structural repairs, or building envelope restoration is a plus.
- Proven ability to prepare estimates from conceptual budgeting through final bid submission.
- Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, sequencing, and scheduling.
- Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings and specifications.
- Experience with subcontractor procurement, bid leveling, and scope analysis.
- Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and negotiation skills.
- Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred.
- Experience with affordable housing, occupied multifamily communities, condominium renovations, or HOA reconstruction projects.
- Familiarity with waterproofing, exterior envelope systems, concrete repair, seismic upgrades, and rehabilitation projects.
- Proficiency with Bluebeam, Procore, BuildingConnected, PlanSwift, Sage Estimating, OST, or similar estimating software.
- Experience participating in value engineering, constructability reviews, and collaborative preconstruction planning.
