Job Summary
The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and timely estimates for impact windows, doors, shutters, storefront systems, and other hurricane protection products. This role independently reviews project plans and specifications, performs detailed quantity takeoffs, develops comprehensive cost estimates, and collaborates with Sales, Project Management, Engineering, Purchasing, and Operations to ensure proposals align with project requirements and company objectives. The Estimator serves as a technical resource throughout the bidding process by identifying potential risks, recommending cost-effective solutions, and ensuring estimates are complete, accurate, and compliant with applicable building codes and manufacturer requirements.
Duties & Responsibilities
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Prepare accurate and timely estimates for impact windows, doors, shutters, storefront systems, and related hurricane protection products.
- Review architectural drawings, specifications, contracts, bid documents, and project requirements to determine project scope.
- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs, material calculations, and labor estimates from construction documents.
- Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate pricing with vendors, manufacturers, and subcontractors.
- Develop comprehensive cost estimates using company estimating software and established estimating procedures.
- Verify measurements, product selections, engineering requirements, and project specifications prior to bid submission.
- Identify scope gaps, design conflicts, exclusions, and potential risks before proposals are finalized.
- Prepare professional bid proposals, value engineering recommendations, and supporting documentation.
- Coordinate closely with Sales, Purchasing, Engineering, Project Management, and Operations throughout the estimating process.
- Participate in project turnover meetings to ensure a seamless transition from estimating to project execution.
- Maintain accurate estimating files, bid logs, historical pricing, and project documentation.
- Research product approvals, Florida Building Code requirements, manufacturer specifications, and industry best practices.
- Assist in developing and maintaining estimating standards, templates, and department procedures.
- Mentor and provide guidance to Junior Estimators as needed.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance estimating accuracy, efficiency, and profitability.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Skills & Abilities
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Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to independently manage multiple estimates while meeting strict deadlines.
- Thorough understanding of construction documents, specifications, and estimating principles.
- Ability to identify project risks and recommend practical solutions.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Strong negotiation and vendor relationship management skills.
- Professional verbal and written communication skills.
- Customer-focused with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- High level of integrity, accountability, and sound judgment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
Education & Experience
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High school diploma or GED required.
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Business, or a related field preferred.
- Three (3) to five (5) years of estimating experience within the construction, glazing, fenestration, building materials, or hurricane protection industry.
- Experience estimating impact windows, doors, shutters, storefront systems, curtainwall, or similar commercial and residential construction projects strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to accurately read and interpret architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
- Working knowledge of the Florida Building Code, product approvals, and hurricane protection systems preferred.
- Experience using estimating software and ERP systems.
- Valid Florida driver's license with an acceptable driving record preferred.
Physical Requirements
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Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
- Capacity to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
- Frequent use of computers and standard office equipment.
- Occasional travel to project sites, customer locations, manufacturing facilities, and pre-construction meetings as needed
