A well-established custom millwork company with over 45 years of experience is seeking an experienced Millwork Estimator to join our team. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality craftsmanship and precision in every project, from concept to completion.
Job Summary:
The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial millwork projects. This role requires a deep understanding of materials, labor costs, and fabrication processes, as well as the ability to analyze blueprints, project specifications, and bid documents. The ideal candidate is highly detail-oriented, analytical, and skilled in cost estimation software and vendor negotiations.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Review architectural plans, blueprints, and project specifications to determine material and labor costs.
- Perform detailed take-offs to calculate quantities of wood, hardware, finishes, and other materials required for each project.
- Develop comprehensive cost estimates for commercial millwork projects, factoring in labor, materials, fabrication, shipping, and installation costs.
- Identify potential cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or project requirements.
- Prepare detailed bid packages and proposals for submission to general contractors, architects, and clients.
- Ensure all bids are submitted on time and in compliance with project requirements.
- Collaborate with the sales and project management teams to refine bid strategies.
- Maintain a database of historical cost data to improve pricing accuracy and competitiveness.
- Request and evaluate material and subcontractor quotes to ensure competitive pricing.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and subcontractors to negotiate better pricing and lead times.
- Stay up to date on market pricing trends for wood, laminate, hardware, and other millwork materials.
- Work closely with project managers, drafters, engineers, and production teams to ensure estimates align with project capabilities and timelines.
- Communicate with clients, general contractors, and architects to clarify project scope and specifications when necessary.
- Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits to assess job conditions and potential challenges.
- Continuously refine estimation methods to improve accuracy, efficiency, and consistency.
- Maintain a detailed database of past project estimates, vendor pricing, and bid outcomes for future reference.
- Assist in value engineering efforts to offer cost-effective alternatives while maintaining project integrity.
- Additional responsibilities may be assigned based on project needs and company growth.
Required Skills/Abilities:
- Strong understanding of commercial millwork, cabinetry, and woodworking materials and processes.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, and architectural specifications.
- Knowledge of ADA, fire-rated, and building code compliance for millwork projects.
- Familiarity with wood species, laminates, veneers, solid surfaces, and hardware components used in millwork.
- Experience with take-off software and estimating tools such as PlanSwift, Bluebeam, or AutoCAD.
- Exceptional attention to detail and strong mathematical skills for accurate cost calculations.
- Ability to analyze labor and material costs to develop competitive estimates.
- Strong time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple bids and deadlines.
- Ability to assess project risks and challenges and factor them into the estimate.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills to coordinate with vendors, clients, and internal teams.
- Ability to negotiate pricing and terms with suppliers and subcontractors.
- Clear documentation of bid proposals, material costs, and scope breakdowns for internal and client review.
- Experience using estimating and take-off software such as PlanSwift, Bluebeam, or On-Screen Takeoff.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Adobe, and Project Management Software (e.g., Procore, BlueBeam).
Education and Experience:
- High school diploma or GED required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in construction management, woodworking, or a related field is a plus.
- 5+ years of experience in estimating commercial millwork, construction, or related trades.
- Proven experience in cost estimation, bid preparation, and take-offs for millwork projects.
- Experience working with general contractors, architects, and procurement teams.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift for extended periods in shop and job site environments.
- Ability to sit and work on a computer for extended periods.
- Occasional visits to job sites for field measurements and project assessments.
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs occasionally.
Benefits:
· Paid holidays, vacation, and sick days
· Medical and dental plan
· Flex Spending Account (FSA)
· Health Savings Account (HSA)
· 401(K) retirement plan with employer matching contribution
· Vision insurance
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
- core office hours 8.75 hours Monday-Thursday, and 5 hours on Friday (may need to stay longer if necessary)
Work Location:
Poway, CA - In person
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.
Fair Chance Act
Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with applicable law.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $70,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Estimating: 5 years (Required)
Location:
- Poway, CA 92064 (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Poway, CA 92064 (Required)
Work Location: In person
