Job Description

The Estimator plays a critical role in the preconstruction phase, responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and strategic cost estimates for construction projects. This position analyzes project specifications, drawings, and related documentation to forecast costs associated with materials, labor, equipment, and subcontracted services.  Estimator partners closely with Project Managers, Engineers, subcontractors, and clients to evaluate project feasibility, identify risks and opportunities, and deliver optimized pricing solutions that align with project goals, budgets, and timelines.

This role requires a strong understanding of construction means and methods, market conditions, and cost drivers. The Estimator operates with a high degree of independence, requiring only limited oversight from senior leadership, and contributes to continuous improvement within the estimating function. Additionally, this role provides mentorship and guidance to junior estimators.

 Key Responsibilities

Project Estimating & Analysis 

• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from drawings and specifications with a high level of accuracy
• Analyze project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and other documentation to fully understand scope and identify potential risks
• Develop comprehensive cost estimates, including self-perform work, subcontractor scopes, materials, equipment, and indirect costs
• Utilize HCSS HeavyBid to build, manage, and refine estimates
• Evaluate and incorporate historical data, production rates, and current market pricing trends

Bid Management & Execution 

• Create, organize, and maintain bid folders and documentation to ensure a streamlined estimating process
• Develop and issue RFPs/RFQs to subcontractors and suppliers; solicit, evaluate, and level bids
• Prepare complete and competitive bid packages, including proposals, clarifications, and supporting documentation
• Lead internal estimate reviews and present final estimates to leadership, highlighting key assumptions, risks, and opportunities
• Ensure all bids are submitted accurately and on time in accordance with client requirements

Collaboration & Communication 

• Partner with Project Managers, Engineers, and field teams to validate assumptions and ensure constructability
• Participate in client meetings, pre-bid meetings, and site visits as needed
• Communicate effectively with subcontractors and vendors to build strong relationships and ensure competitive pricing
• Support a seamless transition from estimating to operations through detailed project handoff meetings

Risk Identification & Cost Optimization 

• Identify potential cost savings, efficiencies, and value engineering opportunities
• Analyze potential “gains and fades” and communicate risk exposure to leadership
• Assess schedule impacts and sequencing considerations that influence cost
• Proactively identify gaps, scope overlaps, and inconsistencies in project documents

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.