Construction Lead Estimator

POSITION SPECIFICS

Day-to-day Responsibility

• Preconstruction & Estimating: Develop accurate cost estimates across all design phases using CSI divisions and perform detailed quantity takeoffs. Analyze drawings and specifications to create complete bid packages aligned with project requirements.
• Subcontractor & Consultant Coordination: Source, evaluate, and coordinate bids from subcontractors and consultants. Support scope reviews, early procurement strategies, and contract execution
• Project Documentation & Risk Management: Maintain organized preconstruction documentation and track cost history for benchmarking. Contribute to early scheduling, risk assessments, and opportunity identification
• Collaboration & Communication: Participate in kickoff and strategy meetings with internal teams and clients. Assist in proposal development and support continuous process improvements through clear documentation and cross-functional teamwork.

Non-negotiable requirements

35 years of estimating experience with a commercial general contractor

Experience across multiple commercial asset classes (e.g., retail, storage, mixed-use, industrial)

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field

Advanced proficiency with Bluebeam for digital takeoffs

Familiarity with Procore (Project Management and Preconstruction workflows)

Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Smartsheet, and Google Workspace

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Highlights

1. Role Overview

The estimator will handle pre-construction tasks, including:

Performing takeoffs (quantifying materials from plans)

Soliciting bids from subcontractors

Bid leveling: comparing subcontractor proposals against internal estimates

Building full project proposals as a General Contractor (GC)

2. Required Experience

Must have GC experience, not just subcontractor or quantity surveying roles.

Should understand full project scope: site work, utilities, foundations, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), etc.

Familiarity with software tools like PlanSwift, On-Screen Takeoff, AutoCAD is preferred.

Ideal candidates have field experience (e.g., Project Engineer, Superintendent) and later transitioned into estimating/pre-construction.

3. Clarifications

Takeoff refers to measuring quantities from plans to estimate costs.

Estimators should not rely solely on historical rates; they must vet subcontractor bids independently.

GC estimators must understand construction sequencing and identify gaps in subcontractor proposals.

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Flexible requirements

3+ years of field experience in commercial construction preferred

* Prior experience contributing to or improving estimating processes and tools is a plus

Additional notes about the role

Analytical Thinking:

Attention to Detail

Strong Communication

Process-Oriented

Highly Initiative

Adaptability

Technical Proficiency: Strong command of Bluebeam, Procore, Excel, and estimating best practices