Construction Estimator – Custom Residential
Oliver Builders, Inc.Berkeley, CaliforniaFull-time or part-time
About Oliver Builders
Oliver Builders, Inc. is a Berkeley-based general contractor specializing in high-quality custom homes, whole-house remodels, and ground-up residential construction throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
We are looking for a Construction Estimator to join our team and help strengthen our estimating and preconstruction capacity.
About the Position
We are open to candidates at different stages of their estimating careers. An experienced estimator may step quickly into independent ownership, while a developing estimator will receive more guidance and training. In either case, the fundamental responsibilities are the same; experience determines the level of autonomy, oversight, and compensation.
Strong estimating is more than performing takeoffs and entering numbers. It requires construction knowledge, sound judgment, careful organization, intellectual curiosity, and the discipline to identify missing information before it becomes a problem.
The right candidate does not need to know everything on day one. They do need to think clearly, take ownership of their work, learn quickly, and be honest about what they know and what still needs to be resolved.
Responsibilities
- Review architectural and engineering plans, specifications, and other project information to understand the complete scope of work
- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs
- Develop clear and complete scopes of work
- Solicit proposals from Trade Partners and vendors
- Follow up on outstanding pricing and missing information
- Analyze and level proposals for completeness, scope coverage, and accuracy
- Assemble and maintain detailed project estimates
- Identify scope gaps, assumptions, risks, inconsistencies, and unresolved information
- Develop preliminary construction schedules
- Assist Project Managers with change-order pricing, including scope development, quantity takeoffs, Trade Partner pricing, and estimate documentation
- Maintain historical pricing, estimating records, and related project information
- Support the preparation of client-facing estimates and estimate qualifications
- Communicate clearly with Project Managers, Trade Partners, vendors, architects, and other project participants
Qualifications
We recognize that capable estimators can come from different professional backgrounds. Direct custom residential estimating experience is beneficial but not required.
Relevant backgrounds may include:
- Residential or commercial construction estimating
- Project engineering or project management
- Field supervision or hands-on construction experience combined with strong analytical ability
We are particularly interested in candidates who demonstrate:
- Sound judgment and a practical understanding of construction
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Comfort working with quantities, costs, and detailed information
- The ability to read and understand construction documents
- Clear written and verbal communication
- Initiative, follow-through, and personal accountability
- The ability to identify what is missing rather than relying only on the information provided
- A willingness to ask good questions and learn from feedback
- Comfort learning and working within organized digital systems
Software
Oliver Builders currently uses:
Prior experience with these specific tools is helpful but not required. Training will be provided. The ability and willingness to learn new technology is more important than experience with a particular software platform.
Schedule and Work Location
- Full-time or part-time employment
- Part-time positions require a minimum commitment of approximately 24 hours per week
- The position is initially based in our Berkeley office
- After the initial 90-day probationary period, a hybrid work option will be available if desired
Compensation and Benefits
- Full-time compensation range: $85,000–$160,000 annually
- Part-time compensation will be prorated based on the agreed schedule
- Placement within the range will depend on demonstrated experience, capability, and expected level of autonomy
Benefits available to eligible employees include:
How to Apply
Please submit a résumé.
Additional information may be supplied at the applicant’s choice, including:
- A description of relevant construction or estimating experience
- Examples of relevant projects or work
- What interests the applicant about this position or Oliver Builders
Oliver Builders is interested in demonstrated capability and potential—not simply years of experience or a particular career path.
Pay: $85,000.00 - $160,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
