Construction Estimator

Key Responsibilities:

Estimating & Cost Development

• Prepare detailed estimates for a variety of construction projects, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor costs.

• Develop and maintain organized, well-documented cost breakdowns for internal and client review.

• Utilize current pricing data, historical costs, and vendor/subcontractor input to support estimates.

• Apply contingency factors and value engineering where appropriate to refine project budgets.

Project Analysis & Scope Review

• Analyze architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, proposals, and related documentation to determine project scope and pricing requirements.

• Identify and flag scope gaps, inconsistencies, or risk areas in bid documents.

• Quantify takeoffs and apply accurate unit costs using manual methods or digital tools.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to clarify project scope, construction methods, and pricing assumptions.

• Communicate effectively with internal teams to ensure accurate handoff of awarded estimates for project execution.

• Assist in developing bid strategies and coordinating bid submissions with estimating and operations leadership.

Software & Technology Use

• Use general estimating software (e.g., PlanSwift, Bluebeam, ProEst, or similar) and spreadsheets to develop, document, and present cost data.

• Use Job Order Contracting estimating software (e.g., RSMeans, eGordian, SimpleBid, or similar systems) to create unit price proposals.

• Leverage databases and digital tools to streamline quantity takeoffs and pricing accuracy.

• Maintain digital archives of past estimates for reference and benchmarking.

Bid Process Participation

• Attend and contribute to pre-bid meetings, site walkthroughs, and RFI discussions as required.

• Coordinate subcontractor and supplier solicitations, gather pricing, and perform bid-leveling comparisons.

• Participate in post-bid reviews and support final negotiations, clarifications, or scope adjustments.

Market & Cost Tracking

• Monitor industry cost trends, labor rates, and commodity pricing to ensure estimates reflect current market conditions.

• Track subcontractor and supplier performance and pricing history to inform bid strategies.

• Maintain and update internal cost databases for ongoing accuracy and reliability.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• 3–7 years of experience as a construction estimator or in a related preconstruction role.

• Proficiency in reading construction drawings, specifications, and technical documents.

• Strong knowledge of estimating principles, methods, and best practices.

• Experience with estimating software such as Bluebeam, PlanSwift, ProEst, or similar tools.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively under tight deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field.

• Familiarity with public sector procurement and Job Order Contracting (JOC) methods.

• Experience in commercial, healthcare, education, or government construction projects.

Reports To:

Preconstruction Manager / Director of Operations

Coordinates / Assists With:

• Subcontractors & Vendors

• Business Development Department

• Preconstruction Department

• Marketing Department

• Operations Department

Expectations:

• Demonstrate strong communication and collaboration skills in a team-oriented environment

• Meet deadlines and positively contribute to team goals while upholding company values.

• Take ownership of tasks and consistently deliver high-quality work.

• Deliver accurate, complete, and well-documented estimates.

• Maintain high standards of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

• Proactively seek opportunities for growth and career development.

Build Brilliantly | Eastern Builders, Inc.