The Construction Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial construction projects valued up to $20 million. This role analyzes plans and specifications, solicits subcontractor and supplier pricing, prepares detailed quantity takeoffs, and develops comprehensive bid proposals. The Estimator works closely with project managers, superintendents, clients, architects, engineers, and trade partners to support successful project acquisition and seamless project handoff.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed conceptual, budgetary, and final cost estimates for commercial construction projects.
- Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to determine project scope and requirements.
- Perform accurate quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, and equipment.
- Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier bids.
- Develop comprehensive bid packages and scope sheets for subcontractors.
- Analyze project risks and identify value engineering opportunities.
- Prepare bid summaries, cost analyses, and proposal documents.
- Coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, and consultants during the bidding process.
- Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits as required.
- Maintain historical cost databases and estimating templates.
- Collaborate with Project Managers and Superintendents during project turnover.
- Assist with change order pricing and cost analysis throughout construction.
- Ensure estimates comply with company standards and project specifications.
- Meet bid deadlines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred.
- 5–10+ years of commercial construction estimating experience.
- Proven experience estimating projects valued up to $20 million.
- Strong knowledge of commercial construction methods, materials, and building systems.
- Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, civil, mechanical, and electrical drawings.
- Experience with conceptual estimating, budgeting, and competitive bidding.
- Proficiency with estimating software such as Sage Estimating, OST (On-Screen Takeoff), Bluebeam Revu, ProEst, PlanSwift, or similar platforms.
- Strong Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Required Skills
- Quantity takeoffs
- Cost estimating and budgeting
- Bid preparation and proposal development
- Subcontractor and supplier procurement
- Value engineering
- Construction document review
- Cost analysis and reporting
- Negotiation skills
- Time management and organization
- Strong attention to detail
Physical Requirements
- Ability to travel occasionally for site visits and pre-bid meetings.
- Ability to review plans, specifications, and technical documents for extended periods.
- Ability to work in an office environment with occasional visits to active construction sites.
Performance Expectations
- Produce accurate and competitive estimates that support profitable project awards.
- Meet all bid deadlines while maintaining high-quality work.
- Develop strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities through value engineering and risk analysis.
- Support successful project turnover by providing complete estimating documentation.
- Contribute to the company's growth through effective preconstruction planning and bidding
Standard Benefits
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.
