gpac | The Recruitment Platform

Estimator in Grand Rapids

Date Posted: 22 October 2026

Job Snapshot

Job Description

 

Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Commercial/Multifamily Estimator for Commercial General Contractor

What You'll Be Doing

  • Lead estimating efforts for ground-up commercial construction projects, from conceptual budgeting through final bid.

  • Develop comprehensive estimates covering all phases of new construction, including sitework, foundations, structural systems, MEP, and finishes.

  • Review construction drawings, specifications, and project documents to determine complete project scopes, quantities, and costs.

  • Perform detailed quantity takeoffs, material pricing, labor analysis, and subcontractor bid evaluations.

  • Prepare conceptual estimates, detailed budgets, competitive bids, and cost breakdowns.

  • Solicit, review, and level subcontractor and supplier proposals to ensure accurate scope coverage.

  • Identify project risks, scope gaps, value engineering opportunities, and potential cost savings.

  • Collaborate with Project Managers, Superintendents, and leadership throughout preconstruction.

  • Participate in bid reviews, scope evaluations, and subcontractor negotiations.

  • Support successful project handoffs from estimating to construction operations.

What We're Looking For

MUST-HAVE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Extensive, hands-on experience estimating GROUND-UP commercial construction projects.

  • Proven estimating experience working for a commercial general contractor.

  • Demonstrated ability to independently develop comprehensive, full-project estimates for new commercial buildings.

  • Strong understanding of the complete ground-up construction process, including civil/sitework, foundations, structural systems, building envelope, MEP, and interior finishes.

  • Experience estimating commercial projects valued at $15M–$30M+ strongly preferred.

  • Proficiency in quantity takeoffs, conceptual estimating, subcontractor bid leveling, and detailed cost analysis.

  • Strong ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents.

  • Experience using construction estimating software and Microsoft Office.

  • Excellent organizational, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Additional Experience That Would Be Valuable:

  • Multifamily or mixed-use ground-up construction.

  • Commercial renovations and high-rise construction.

  • Design-build projects and preconstruction planning.

  • Value engineering and conceptual budgeting.

Important: Candidates whose estimating experience is primarily limited to renovations, tenant improvements, or specialty trades without substantial ground-up commercial General Contractor experience will not be the right fit for this position.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

  • Established & Reputable Contractor: Join a respected commercial construction company with a strong presence throughout Michigan.

  • Diverse Project Portfolio: Work on commercial, multifamily, and ground-up construction projects.

  • Career Growth: Opportunities to expand your responsibilities and advance professionally.

  • Strong Leadership: Work alongside experienced construction professionals who value collaboration and teamwork.

  • Meaningful Involvement: Play an important role in project planning, budgeting, and securing new work.

  • Long-Term Stability: Continued opportunities with multiple projects throughout Michigan.

  • Competitive Compensation & Benefits: Attractive compensation package and strong employee benefits.

 

Whether you're actively looking or simply open to hearing about another opportunity, all conversations will be handled confidentially.

Phoebe Johnson – gpac
605-705-3365
phoebe.johnson@gogpac.com

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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