McPhee Associates is an award-winning family-owned, design and build firm that has been building and remodeling high-end Cape Cod residences since 1972. We are seeking an experienced Residential Construction Specifications Writer & Estimator to join our growing team. This position plays a critical role in transforming architectural designs into detailed construction specifications, accurate project budgets, and comprehensive schedules that guide projects from concept through construction completion and turn over to clients.
The ideal candidate has extensive experience in residential construction estimating, specification writing, and client selections. They possess a strong understanding of residential building practices, building & energy code requirements, excellent organizational & time management skills, and the ability to coordinate with architects, clients, vendors, subcontractors, and field personnel to develop thorough and accurate project documentation.
This is an excellent opportunity for a detail-oriented construction professional who enjoys combining technical expertise, project planning, and client interaction in a collaborative design-build environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Construction Specifications
· Develop comprehensive written construction specifications that accompany in-house architectural plans.
· Prepare detailed scopes of work and trade-specific specifications for subcontractors and vendors.
· Translate architectural drawings, client selections, and design intent into clear, buildable project documentation.
· Ensure all specifications and construction details comply with applicable building codes, energy codes, and local regulatory requirements.
· Stay current on updates to residential building codes, energy efficiency standards, and best practices, and incorporate changes into specifications as required.
· Create and maintain specifications for new custom homes, renovations, additions, and remodeling projects.
· Develop detailed written change order specifications and estimates throughout the construction process.
Estimating
· Prepare complete and accurate cost estimates for residential construction projects.
· Perform material takeoffs for all construction phases.
· Solicit, review, compare, and analyze subcontractor and supplier proposals.
· Negotiate pricing with vendors and subcontractors to maximize project value while maintaining quality standards.
· Estimate labor requirements, production rates, and project costs.
· Prepare budgets, cost summaries, and supporting documentation for presentation to homeowners and internal teams.
· Prepare as necessary value engineer options and present to owners
· Track and price project revisions and change orders throughout construction.
· Complete preliminary estimating during design process to assist with the development and progress of architectural designs
Project Planning & Scheduling
· Develop detailed construction schedules during the estimating phase.
· Coordinate sequencing of trades and establish realistic project timelines.
· Participate in pre-construction planning meetings to ensure project readiness.
· Identify scheduling conflicts, potential risks, and opportunities for improved efficiency.
Collaboration & Communication
· Collaborate closely with architects, architectural designers, interior designers, project managers, and field supervisors to ensure estimates accurately reflect project requirements.
· Communicate effectively with subcontractors and suppliers to obtain complete and timely pricing.
· Provide ongoing cost analysis and reporting throughout the lifecycle of each project.
Continuous Improvement
· Follow established company procedures, estimating standards, and specification development processes.
· Maintain and improve estimating templates, specification libraries, and pricing databases.
· Research new products, materials, vendors, construction methods, and evolving code and energy compliance requirements.
· Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving alternatives without compromising quality or compliance.
Qualifications
· Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Building Science, Architecture, or a related field preferred.
· Minimum of 5 years of residential construction estimating and specification writing experience, preferably in a design-build environment.
· Strong working knowledge of residential building codes and energy code requirements, with the ability to apply them in design and construction documentation.
· Demonstrated experience working closely with architects, designers, homeowners, subcontractors, and field teams.
· Previous residential project management experience is strongly preferred.
· Experience using Buildertrend or similar construction management software.
· Strong knowledge of residential construction methods, materials, building systems, and sequencing.
· Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, construction documents, specifications, and renderings.
· Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
· Excellent mathematical, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
· Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
· Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
· Ability to prioritize multiple projects while consistently meeting deadlines.
· Strong negotiation skills and experience working with subcontractors and suppliers.
· Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.
Skillset
· Highly organized and process-driven.
· Passionate about residential construction, building science, and quality craftsmanship.
· Comfortable working directly with homeowners and design professionals.
· Proactive in identifying solutions, compliance considerations, and process improvements.
· Able to balance technical precision, code compliance, and outstanding customer service.
· Committed to delivering accurate, complete, and professional project documentation.
Work Environment
· Full time, office-based position with periodic visits to project sites.
· Collaborative design-build team environment.
· Fast-paced workflow with multiple concurrent projects and estimating deadlines.
· Regular interaction with clients, architects, subcontractors, vendors, and construction personnel.
Benefits/Pay
· Health insurance, paid holidays, paid time off, 401K with company match
· Compensation ranges from $85,000-$125,000 based on experience
Pay: $85,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
