ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Chief Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Casey Industrial, Inc.

Chief Estimator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Chief Estimator - Water / Wastewater Construction The Chief Estimator is an essential senior role responsible for leading the estimating department and ensuring the accuracy and competitiveness of ...

Blt Management LLC

Chief Estimator

Stamford, CT · On-site

$137K - $182K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Chief Estimator Location: Stamford, CT (In-Person Position) About BLT Building and Land Technology (BLT) is a vertically integrated real estate development, investment, and property management firm ...

Building-and-Land-Technology

Chief Estimator

Stamford, CT · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Chief Estimator Building and Land Technology Stamford, Connecticut, United States About this position Location: Stamford, CT (In-Person Position) About BLT Building and Land Technology (BLT) is a ...

Career Land Center, LLC

Chief Estimator

Elk River, MN · On-site

$120 - $190/hr

Position Summary A construction leader is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead and elevate the estimating function. This role is responsible for setting estimating standards, guiding pricing strategy ...

Blt Management LLC

Chief Estimator

Stamford, CT · On-site

$137K - $182K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Chief Estimator Location: Stamford, CT (In-Person Position) About BLT Building and Land Technology (BLT) is a vertically integrated real estate development, investment, and property management firm ...

Career Land Center, LLC

Chief Estimator

Elk River, MN

$130K - $185K/yr

Position Summary A construction leader is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead and elevate the estimating function. This role is responsible for setting estimating standards, guiding pricing strategy ...

Primech Recruiting

Chief Estimator

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Chief Estimator - HVAC & Plumbing (Commercial Mechanical Contractor) Location: Kansas City Metro -- relocation available About the Company Our client is a well-established and growing commercial ...

The Port Authority of NY & NJ

Chief Estimator

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$134K - $178K/yr

Chief Estimator Position Overview The Chief Estimator serves as the Engineering Department's senior authority on construction and engineering cost intelligence and leads the Port Authority of New ...

Fessler & Bowman

Chief Estimator

Holly, MI · On-site

$114K - $152K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Chief Estimator is a primary member of the estimating team who has overall responsibility for the creation of budgets and estimates produced by the region, under the Regional Director. The Chief ...

Fessler & Bowman Inc

Chief Estimator

Holly, MI · On-site

$114K - $152K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Chief Estimator is a primary member of the estimating team who has overall responsibility for the creation of budgets and estimates produced by the region, under the Regional Director. The Chief ...

Meridian Mechanical Services, LLC.

Chief Estimator

Rockledge, FL · On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

```html Chief Estimator Location: Rockledge, FL 32955 Job Summary We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Chief Estimator to lead our estimating department in Rockledge, FL. The ideal ...

Auld & White Constructors

Chief Estimator

Jacksonville, FL

$119K - $158K/yr

As our Chief Estimator , you'll be at the forefront of exciting growth, leading a skilled team in delivering competitive, high-quality estimates for a diverse range of commercial projects. Join a ...

Solid Rock Recruiting LLC

Chief Estimator

Houston, TX · On-site

$123K - $163K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Chief Estimator **Location:** Houston, TX **Job Type:** Permanent **Job Summary: ** The Chief Estimator will lead the estimating department and oversee all aspects of the estimating processes. This ...

Meridian Mechanical Services

Chief Estimator

Rockledge, FL · On-site

$114K - $151K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

```html Chief Estimator Location: Rockledge, FL 32955 Job Summary We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Chief Estimator to lead our estimating department in Rockledge, FL. The ideal ...

Cox Engineering

Chief Estimator

Randolph, MA · On-site

$110K - $155K/yr

Chief Estimator Reports To: Executive Vice President Location: Randolph, MA Cox Engineering is seeking a Chief Estimator to join our team. Cox Engineering Company ... one of the ' Best Places to Work

J.J. Barney Construction

Chief Estimator

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$118K - $157K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Chief Estimator is responsible for leading and developing the estimating department while driving estimating strategy, standardization, and continuous improvement. This role oversees all ...

Thornton Construction Company

Chief Estimator

Opa Locka, FL · On-site

$119K - $158K/yr

The Chief Estimator plays a pivotal role in the construction project by overseeing the estimation process for various projects, ensuring that all costs are accurately calculated and aligned with the ...

Fessler & Bowman

Chief Estimator

Holly, MI · On-site

$114K - $152K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Chief Estimator is a primary member of the estimating team who has overall responsibility for the creation of budgets and estimates produced by the region, under the Regional Director. The Chief ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsConstruction JobsGeneral Construction JobsCost Estimators JobsChief Estimator Jobs

Chief Estimator information

See salary details

$47.5K

$148.4K

$204.5K

How much do chief estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief estimator in the United States is $148,376.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $171,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chief estimator?

A chief estimator is primarily responsible for making financial budgets and estimates to bid on a construction or design project. People in this job take into account many factors when making an estimate. These factors include the cost of building materials, cost of labor, cost of transportation, fees, tariffs, and profit margin. The chief estimator may also use software analysis, or analysis of previous estimates to help them make predictions.

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

To thrive as a Chief Estimator, you need strong analytical skills, deep knowledge of construction processes, and extensive experience in cost estimating, typically backed by a degree in construction management or a related field. Proficiency with estimating software like Bluebeam, ProEst, or Sage Estimating and familiarity with project management tools are crucial. Excellent leadership, negotiation, and communication skills help coordinate teams and effectively present cost proposals. These abilities are vital for producing accurate bids, securing profitable projects, and maintaining an organization's competitive edge.

How does a chief estimator typically collaborate with project managers and other departments during the bidding process?

A Chief Estimator plays a central role in collaborating with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams throughout the bidding process. They organize and lead meetings to review project requirements, clarify scope, and ensure that all cost components are accurately included. By working closely with other departments, they help identify risks, value engineering opportunities, and resource needs, ensuring that bids are both competitive and realistic. This cross-functional collaboration is essential for producing thorough, accurate proposals and maintaining strong client relationships.

What is the difference between Chief Estimator vs Estimating Engineer?

AspectChief EstimatorEstimating Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in construction management or civil engineering, with extensive estimating experienceOften holds a degree in engineering or construction, with specialized estimating training
Work EnvironmentLeads the estimating team, oversees large projects, and collaborates with senior managementFocuses on preparing detailed cost estimates, working under the supervision of senior estimators or project managers
Industry UsageCommonly used in construction firms for large-scale projectsUsed across construction and engineering firms for detailed project cost analysis

The Chief Estimator is responsible for leading the estimating department and making high-level cost decisions, while the Estimating Engineer focuses on preparing detailed estimates and supporting project bids. Both roles require strong technical skills and industry knowledge, but differ in scope and leadership responsibilities.

Is a chief estimator a stressful job?

A chief estimator role can be stressful due to the responsibility of accurately forecasting project costs and ensuring profitability. The job often involves tight deadlines, complex calculations, and coordination with multiple teams, which can contribute to high-pressure situations. Strong organizational skills and experience with estimating software help manage these challenges effectively.

What does a chief estimator do?

A chief estimator is responsible for preparing and managing cost estimates for construction projects, ensuring accuracy and competitiveness. They analyze project plans, collaborate with clients and contractors, and use estimating software to develop budgets and bid proposals, often overseeing a team of estimators. Strong analytical skills, industry knowledge, and attention to detail are essential for this role.
More about Chief Estimator jobs

What cities are hiring for Chief Estimator jobs?

Cities with the most Chief Estimator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Estimator jobs?

The most popular types of Chief Estimator jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Chief Estimator jobs?

The top employers for Chief Estimator jobs are:

What states have the most Chief Estimator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chief Estimator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Chief Estimator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Estimator jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Chief Estimator jobs?

For Chief Estimator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Chief Estimator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Estimator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $148,376 per year, or $71.3 per hour.

Chief Estimator

Casey Industrial, Inc.

Dallas, TX • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Chief Estimator – Water / Wastewater Construction

The Chief Estimator is an essential senior role responsible for leading the estimating department and ensuring the accuracy and competitiveness of cost estimates for water and wastewater construction projects. The position requires a self‑starter with strong organizational skills, the ability to balance immediate and long‑term priorities, and a passion for improving processes and systems.

  • Lead the estimating department, setting strategy and best practices.
  • Oversee all pre‑construction activities, including schedule development and resource planning.
  • Manage budgeting, forecasting, and cost control for water and wastewater projects.
  • Coordinate bid activities, subcontractor solicitation, and bid-leveling to deliver accurate and competitive proposals.
  • Review and clarify project proposals and specifications, ensuring alignment with client requirements and industry standards.
  • Build and maintain quality relationships with project stakeholders, partners, and subcontractors to secure profitable business opportunities.
#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply