Commercial Construction Estimator
ML Bell Construction is seeking an experienced Commercial Estimator to join our growing team. This position is responsible for leading the estimating and preconstruction process from initial opportunity through project turnover. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, collaborative, and committed to delivering accurate budgets while identifying opportunities to improve project value, reduce risk, and strengthen client relationships.
Primary Responsibilities
- Attend site visits, pre-bid meetings, and client walkthroughs.
- Review drawings, specifications, and contract documents to develop comprehensive project estimates.
- Perform accurate quantity takeoffs using digital estimating software.
- Develop and distribute bid packages to qualified subcontractors and suppliers.
- Solicit, analyze, and level subcontractor and vendor proposals.
- Prepare complete project estimates, including:
- General Conditions
- Self-performed work
- Subcontractor scopes
- Equipment
- Allowances
- Contingencies
- Prepare detailed scope reviews and estimate summaries for management approval.
- Identify project risks, schedule impacts, constructability concerns, and value engineering opportunities.
- Maintain current labor, material, and subcontractor pricing.
- Develop detailed subcontractor scopes of work, bid comparisons, and scope checklists.
- Lead subcontractor buyout meetings and negotiate pricing and scope.
- Coordinate and lead preconstruction turnover meetings with Project Managers and Superintendents.
- Assist business development efforts by meeting with owners, architects, and design teams.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, vendors, and clients.
- Support Design-Build and negotiated project pursuits.
- Participate in continuous improvement of estimating processes, templates, and cost databases.
Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of commercial construction estimating experience.
- Strong understanding of commercial building systems and construction methods.
- Ability to interpret architectural, structural, civil, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical drawings.
- Thorough knowledge of CSI MasterFormat divisions and trade sequencing.
- Experience preparing conceptual budgets through final GMP estimates.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
- Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
- High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to identify project risks and develop practical solutions.
Preferred Experience
- Experience with negotiated, design-build, and hard bid projects.
- Experience using Procore, Bluebeam, Microsoft Excel, and estimating software.
- Knowledge of scheduling software such as Microsoft Project, AI tools
- Commercial experience including office, industrial, retail, hospitality, education, and renovation projects.
Core Competencies
- Leadership
- Integrity
- Teamwork
- Problem Solving
- Cost Analysis
- Communication
- Organization
- Negotiation
- Client Service
- Attention to Detail
Why ML Bell Construction?
At ML Bell Construction, we believe preconstruction is where successful projects begin. We work closely with owners, architects, and trade partners to provide accurate budgets, innovative solutions, and exceptional service. Our team values integrity, collaboration, accountability, and a commitment to building lasting relationships while delivering outstanding commercial construction projects throughout Virginia.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $75,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Willing to work in person full-time in Ashland, VA (No remote work)
Experience:
- Construction estimating: 5 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
