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Builder Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Design-Build Estimator

New York, NY · On-site

$105K - $165K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ask the builder's questions at pricing time: when the tile meets the wall, what happens there? Who ... Estimates that hold -- actual costs, reconciled by the project manager at closeout and delivered to ...

W3Global Inc.

Design-Build Estimator

New York, NY

$105K - $165K/yr

Ask the builder's questions at pricing time: when the tile meets the wall, what happens there? Who ... Estimates that hold - actual costs, reconciled by the project manager at closeout and delivered to ...

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Builder Estimator information

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$35.5K

$83K

$135K

How much do builder estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for builder estimator in the United States is $83,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,000.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a builder estimator?

To become a builder estimator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant experience in construction or estimating. Many professionals pursue a bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field, and develop skills in cost analysis, reading blueprints, and using estimating software. Certification programs, such as the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), can enhance job prospects.

How does a builder estimator typically collaborate with project managers and site supervisors during a construction project?

A Builder Estimator works closely with project managers and site supervisors to ensure that cost estimates align with actual site conditions and project schedules. Regular communication is essential, as estimators may need to adjust budgets or clarify material quantities based on feedback from the field. They often attend meetings to discuss progress, address unforeseen challenges, and provide updated cost forecasts, helping the team stay within budget. This collaborative approach ensures transparency and supports efficient project delivery.

Is construction estimator a good career?

A construction estimator is a valuable role in the construction industry, responsible for assessing project costs and preparing bids. It requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of construction methods, and proficiency with estimating software. The career offers steady demand and opportunities for advancement with experience and certifications.

What is a builder estimator?

Builder Estimators are professionals who assess the costs and resources required for construction projects. They analyze project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare accurate cost estimates for labor, materials, and equipment. Builder Estimators play a crucial role in helping builders and contractors determine the feasibility and budget of a project, ensuring that bids are competitive and financially viable. Their work involves collaboration with architects, engineers, suppliers, and project managers throughout the planning and building process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a builder estimator?

To thrive as a Builder Estimator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of construction methods, often supported by a degree in construction management or related experience. Familiarity with estimating software (such as CostX, Bluebeam, or PlanSwift), spreadsheet tools, and construction codes is typically required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills help you collaborate with clients, suppliers, and project teams. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate cost estimates, minimizing project risks, and ensuring profitability and project success.

What is the difference between Builder Estimator vs Construction Project Coordinator?

AspectBuilder EstimatorConstruction Project Coordinator
Primary RolePrepares cost estimates and bids for construction projectsCoordinates project activities, schedules, and communication during construction
Required CredentialsEstimating certifications, construction knowledgeProject management certifications, communication skills
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, on-site visits for measurementsOn-site supervision, office work, team coordination
Industry UsageUsed during bidding and planning phasesActive during construction execution

While both roles are essential in construction, Builder Estimators focus on preparing accurate cost estimates for projects, primarily during the bidding phase. Construction Project Coordinators manage project schedules, resources, and communication during construction. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and hiring needs in the construction industry.

Are construction estimators in high demand?

Construction estimators are in high demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects and new building developments. Their skills in cost analysis, project bidding, and familiarity with estimating software are highly valued in the construction industry, which often faces labor shortages and project volume increases.
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Builder Estimator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Builder Estimator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,002 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Design-Build Estimator

Quandel Enterprises LLC

Harrisburg, PA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Design-Build Estimator
ABOUT US:
Quandel Energy Solutions, LLC, a Quandel Enterprises, LLC company, is currently seeking a mid-level Design-Build Estimator.
Quandel Enterprises, LLC is a comprehensive construction, construction management, and project development company in the Mid-Atlantic region. We provide support in the healthcare, higher education, K-12 schools, environmental, and industrial market segments. Quandel makes a constant commitment to maintaining a team of experts throughout our organization and we stand firmly behind our core purpose: Lead. Make a Difference. Build a Better Future.
We value our culture and the ability to offer career growth opportunities so that team members can grow and develop their career with us. We LISTEN to each other, COLLABORATE as one team and COMMUNICATE with transparency in order to EXECUTE successfully. We offer a safe, flexible environment. Working with Quandel means you will have a successful career that you can be proud of.
WHAT YOU WILL DO:
The Design-Build Estimator / Process Engineer operates within an ESCO environment, leading pre-construction efforts for water, wastewater, and industrial process projects from early opportunity assessment through development of complete design packages and cost estimates. This role focuses on scoping, designing, and pricing infrastructure improvements, working alongside Project Development teams responsible for energy performance contracting and ECM strategy. The position requires strong technical, estimating, and client-facing capabilities, with the opportunity to transition into project leadership through construction and commissioning phases.
WHAT YOU BRING:
• Lead full-cycle pre-construction for ESCO pursuits, owning all water, wastewater, and industrial process scopes from early opportunity evaluation through development of a complete, defensible design-build estimate, ensuring technical accuracy and commercial viability.
• Partner strategically with Project Development teams, aligning with energy performance contract objectives while independently scoping, designing, and pricing all water/wastewater and industrial infrastructure improvements.
• Drive client engagement during pre-construction, including leading site walks, technical workshops, and presentations, translating real-world field conditions into design assumptions, risk identification, and cost drivers.
• Perform in-depth facility condition assessments and due diligence, evaluating municipal and industrial treatment systems to identify deficiencies, upgrade opportunities, regulatory gaps, and execution risks.
• Develop basis-of-design (BOD) documentation and conceptual engineering packages, including process flow diagrams and preliminary designs that support go/no-go decisions, proposal development, and client approvals.
• Lead design-build estimating efforts across all phases, producing conceptual to definitive cost estimates, detailed scope narratives, equipment lists, and subcontractor bid packages aligned with project requirements and market conditions.
• Execute equipment selection, sizing, and pricing, coordinating directly with vendors and subcontractors to validate specifications, pricing accuracy, availability, and lead times.
• Conduct thorough RFP and technical document reviews, analyzing client specifications, drawings, and requirements to define scope, identify risks, and establish clear assumptions, exclusions, and clarifications.
• Provide advanced process engineering expertise, developing treatment system designs (biological, filtration, disinfection, membrane, solids handling), including hydraulic profiles, mass balances, and treatment train alternatives, while ensuring cross-discipline integration and regulatory compliance.
• Support or lead project execution post-award, transitioning estimates into delivery by managing design-build coordination, subcontractors, schedules, budgets, documentation, and client communication through construction and commissioning.
REQUIREMENTS:
• Bachelor's degree in Civil, Environmental, Chemical, Mechanical Engineering, or related field, with 5-8 years of experience in design-build estimating and/or process engineering for water and wastewater treatment projects.
• Proven experience leading preconstruction efforts, including facility assessments, basis-of-design development, and cost estimating across municipal and/or industrial water and wastewater projects.
• Strong knowledge of process design principles, including biological treatment (activated sludge, MBR, trickling filters), filtration, and disinfection methods (UV, chlorination), along with the ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and regulatory standards.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present technical information to diverse audiences, along with proficiency in estimating tools and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Project), and willingness to travel as needed (20-30%).
• Preferred: Experience with alternative project delivery methods (design-build, CMAR), ESCO/performance contracting, and project management on water/wastewater design-build projects from award through commissioning.
• Preferred: Familiarity with AWWA, WEF, Ten State Standards, and applicable federal and state regulations (SDWA, CWA, NPDES).
• Preferred: Proficiency with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or process simulation software, along with experience in industrial water/process treatment systems (cooling water, process water, ZLD).
WHY QUANDEL?
As leaders in the industry, we offer team members a generous benefits package, top pay, career advancement, and an autonomous culture fostered by integrity and transparency. Working for us means a rewarding career where you will make a difference with our customers, our subcontractors, our suppliers, and our communities.
Team members at Quandel enjoy 4 weeks of PTO, 8 paid holidays, a 401K with company match, and a flexible work environment.
WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Hybrid work schedule with flexibility for remote work and in-office collaboration. While performing the essential functions of this position, must regularly see, speak, and hear; frequently stand; walk; occasionally kneel and stoop; use hands to manipulate, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; and use standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, etc.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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