The Commercial Estimator is a professional-level role responsible for leading the financial analysis, pricing strategy, and risk evaluation of commercial construction projects, including grocery, convenience store, and quick-service restaurant developments. This position exercises independent judgment and discretion in evaluating project scope, subcontractor participation, pricing structures, and contractual risk to develop competitive and financially sound project estimates.
The Commercial Estimator directly impacts company revenue, profitability, and project selection decisions by advising leadership on cost exposure, bid strategy, and pricing recommendations. The role functions as a key contributor to the company’s core business operations and strategic growth initiatives.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead the preparation of comprehensive cost estimates for ground-up, remodel, and tenant improvement commercial projects
- Analyze drawings, specifications, and project documentation to determine scope, constructability risks, and cost drivers
- Develop pricing strategies and recommend bid approaches aligned with company profitability objectives
- Evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals for scope completeness, pricing accuracy, and risk exposure
- Independently negotiate pricing, scope clarifications, and value-engineering opportunities with subcontractors and suppliers.
- Conduct financial risk assessments and identify potential cost escalations, schedule impacts, or contractual exposure
- Advise estimating leadership on bid viability, project risk profile, and go/no-go considerations
- Participate in preconstruction planning discussions with project managers and clients, providing cost advisory input
- Establish and refine estimating methodologies, workflows, and cost database standards to improve efficiency and accuracy
- Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior estimators, supporting professional development and quality control
- Maintain market intelligence regarding labor, materials, and subcontractor pricing trends
DECISION-MAKING AUTHORITY
- Determines pricing methodologies and cost assumptions
- Recommends subcontractor selection and participation strategies
- Exercises discretion in negotiating pricing adjustments
- Identifies and escalates financial and contractual risks
- Advises leadership on bid competitiveness and risk mitigation strategies
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred
- Minimum 4+ years of progressively responsible estimating experience in commercial general contracting
- Experience in retail, grocery, C-store, or QSR construction strongly preferred
- Demonstrated experience preparing independent cost analyses and negotiating subcontractor pricing
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
- Advanced knowledge of construction methods, materials, sequencing, and cost modeling
- Strong analytical and financial reasoning skills
- Demonstrated negotiation capability
- Ability to exercise independent judgment on matters affecting profitability and project risk
- Effective leadership and mentoring capability
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Prolonged periods of sitting while working at a computer workstation
- Frequent use of hands and fingers for keyboarding, mouse use, and operation of office equipment
- Ability to review and interpret detailed construction drawings, specifications, and digital plans
- Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and via video conferencing
- Occasional standing, walking, bending, stooping, and reaching within office and jobsite environments
- Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25 pounds occasionally
- Occasional travel to project sites, requiring the ability to drive
- Ability to access active construction sites, which may include walking on uneven surfaces, exposure to varying weather conditions, construction noise, and dust, and compliance with required personal protective equipment (PPE)
IT REQUIREMENTS:
- General knowledge and understanding of Microsoft Office Technology
- Teams/SharePoint/Outlook for Email/Word/Excel/PowerPoint
- ProCore
- Bluebeam
- BuildingConnected, BidMail, SAGE and all sage Programs
- General ability to utilize cellular phone/iPad or Tablet/Laptop for Work Purposes
Pay: $110,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Construction estimating: 3 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
