gpac | The Recruitment Platform

Estimator in San Diego

Date Posted: 21 May 2026

Job Snapshot

Job Description

Construction Estimator – Commercial Construction

Construction Estimator

Position Summary

The Construction Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates, bid proposals, and budgets for commercial construction projects. This role works closely with project managers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients to analyze project plans, specifications, labor, materials, and overall project costs to support successful project bidding and execution.

Key Responsibilities

  • Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents for commercial construction projects
  • Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates
  • Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing
  • Analyze labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs
  • Develop conceptual, preliminary, and final project estimates
  • Assist with bid preparation, scope reviews, and proposal submissions
  • Coordinate with Project Managers, Superintendents, and Preconstruction teams
  • Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving solutions
  • Maintain estimating databases, pricing history, and vendor relationships
  • Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and subcontractor meetings as needed
  • Review contracts, scopes of work, and project schedules during preconstruction
  • Assist with budgeting, procurement, and change order pricing during construction

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred
  • 2–7 years of estimating experience in commercial construction preferred
  • Experience with ground-up and/or tenant improvement (TI) projects preferred
  • Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and project sequencing
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, and construction documents
  • Proficiency in estimating software such as Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Sage, ProEst, or BuildingConnected
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously

Preferred Experience

  • Commercial office projects
  • Healthcare and medical facilities
  • Industrial and warehouse projects
  • Multifamily construction
  • Retail and hospitality projects
  • Education and municipal projects

Benefits

  • Competitive salary with bonus opportunities
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Paid vacation, sick time, and company holidays
  • Company vehicle allowance or mileage reimbursement
  • Laptop, phone, and technology stipend
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) options
  • Professional development and continuing education assistance
  • Career growth opportunities within preconstruction and operations
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Team-building events and company outings

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.

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