Senior Estimator – Construction
Overview :
The Senior Estimator plays a key leadership role within the preconstruction and estimating team, responsible for developing detailed cost estimates, analyzing drawings and specifications, and leading bid strategies across multiple project types. This position ensures competitive and accurate proposals that align with company objectives, profitability targets, and client expectations.
Key Responsibilities :
- Lead the full estimating lifecycle from conceptual through final estimates for design-build, negotiated GMP, and hard-bid projects.
- Analyze project plans, specifications, and contract documents to prepare detailed scopes of work and quantity take-offs.
- Develop and maintain unit pricing, historical cost data, and subcontractor / vendor databases.
- Manage bid solicitations — review scope, qualify subcontractors, and lead bid reviews.
- Collaborate closely with project managers, preconstruction directors, and executives to develop project budgets and strategies.
- Review design documents for constructability, value engineering opportunities, and potential cost savings.
- Present estimates and cost analyses to senior management and clients in a clear, professional format.
- Mentor junior estimators, providing technical guidance and training on company estimating processes and systems.
- Participate in client interviews, proposal development, and project handoff to operations teams post-award.
Qualifications :
Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field (preferred).8–15+ years of estimating experience in commercial construction (ground-up, renovation, or sector-specific experience such as healthcare, education, industrial, multifamily, etc.).Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., OST, Bluebeam, Sage, ProEst, HeavyBid, or similar).Strong understanding of construction means and methods, subcontractor scopes, and local market pricing.Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills with a collaborative leadership style.Preferred Traits :
Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy under tight deadlines.Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills with subcontractors and clients.Ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.Proven ability to lead preconstruction efforts on projects ranging from $5M–$100M+