Construction Estimator

Job Title: Construction Estimator – Commercial

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site

Industry: Municipal and Public Works Construction

Compensation: $125k-$150k + Bonus + Benefits

About Us We are a well-established general contractor based in Fort Lauderdale, FL, specializing in large-scale municipal projects valued over $20 million. Our portfolio includes public infrastructure, civic buildings, municipal facilities, parks, and other government-funded construction initiatives that enhance our community. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, durable projects that serve the public good while maintaining the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and integrity. Our company operates like a close-knit family—we value long-term relationships, loyalty, and team members who are committed to growing with us for the long haul.

Position Summary We are seeking a highly skilled Construction Estimator with extensive experience in preparing accurate cost estimates for large municipal and public-sector projects (over $20M), as well as multifamily developments. The ideal candidate will be proficient in ConstructConnect/iSqFt (preferred for bid management and project sourcing), takeoff software, and Microsoft Office tools. You will play a critical role in the preconstruction phase by developing competitive bids, analyzing project documents, and collaborating with project teams to ensure profitable, winning proposals that align with public contract requirements and company goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and analyze bid documents, architectural/engineering drawings, specifications, and addenda to prepare comprehensive, accurate cost estimates for municipal/public works and multifamily projects
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs using takeoff software and online plan rooms; identify labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and overhead costs
• Utilize ConstructConnect/iSqFt (or similar platforms) to source projects, manage bid invitations, qualify subcontractors, and track opportunities
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor quotes; build and maintain strong relationships with local subs in the multifamily and public-sector markets
• Develop and present clear, professional bid proposals, cost breakdowns, and value engineering options to leadership and clients
• Collaborate with Project Managers, Superintendents, and leadership to refine estimates, address discrepancies, and support bid strategy
• Monitor market trends, material pricing, labor rates, and subcontractor performance to ensure estimates remain competitive and realistic
• Maintain organized project files in SharePoint and other systems; ensure all documentation is accurate and up-to-date for audits and handoffs
• Identify potential risks, opportunities, and cost-saving measures early in the estimating process
• Meet tight bidding deadlines in a fast-paced environment while upholding the highest standards of accuracy and integrity

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical field—or equivalent hands-on experience
• Minimum 10+ years of experience in construction estimating, with a proven track record on large-scale projects
• Proficiency in ConstructConnect/iSqFt (preferred), takeoff software (e.g., PlanSwift, STACK, Bluebeam, or similar), Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), online plan rooms, and SharePoint
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to clearly explain estimates and recommendations to internal teams and external stakeholders
• Exceptional attention to detail and strong analytical skills to identify and resolve discrepancies in plans, specs, or pricing
• Solid math skills and a proactive problem-solving mindset
• Proven ability to meet critical deadlines and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Previous experience estimating multifamily projects and public facilities, including schools, public safety buildings, municipal developments, and similar public-sector work
• Established knowledge of—and relationships with—local subcontractors in the multifamily and public construction markets
• Valid Florida Driver's License and reliable transportation
• Commitment to long-term employment with a family-like company culture

Preferred Qualifications

• Local experience in Broward County or South Florida municipal/public works and multifamily markets
• Familiarity with public bidding processes, prevailing wage requirements, and government compliance
• OSHA 10- or 30-Hour Certification
• Experience with additional tools such as Bluebeam Revu, ProEst, or Autodesk Construction Cloud

Why Join Us

• Join a tight-knit, family-oriented team that treats employees like extended family and rewards loyalty with long-term stability
• Work on impactful municipal projects that shape Fort Lauderdale and surrounding communities
• Competitive salary range of $125k-$150k, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package
• Opportunity for career growth in a company that values dedication and promotes from within

DIVERSTIY AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Ascendo is a certified minority owned staffing firm, we welcome and celebrate diversity.

Ascendo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, retaliation, parental status, military service or any non-merit factor.