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Chief Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chief Estimator

Stamford, CT ยท On-site

$137K - $182K/yr

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 ...

Chief Estimator

Stamford, CT ยท On-site

$137K - $182K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Chief Estimator

Long Island City, NY ยท On-site

$139K - $185K/yr

The Chief Estimator will report to our Chief Operating Officer and work closely with the estimating team. As a senior leader you will be responsible for overseeing all aspect of the estimating ...

Chief Estimator

Holly, MI

$114K - $152K/yr

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 ...

Chief Estimator

Holly, MI ยท On-site

$114K - $152K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

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

Chief Estimator

Houston, TX

$123K - $163K/yr

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 ...

Chief Estimator

Rockledge, FL

$114K - $151K/yr

```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 ...

Chief Estimator

Holly, MI ยท On-site

$114K - $152K/yr

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 ...

Chief Estimator

Holly, MI

$114K - $152K/yr

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 ...

Chief Estimator

Rochester, MI ยท On-site

$118K - $157K/yr

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

Chief Estimator ID: 1060 Location: Eldersburg, Maryland Department: Estimating Salary Range: $110,000 - $140,000 Based on Experience Company: MT Laney More about this job > Description CHIEF ...

Chief Estimator

Opa Locka, FL ยท 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 ...

Chief Estimator

Jacksonville, FL ยท On-site

$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 ...

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Chief Estimator information

See salary details

$47.5K

$148.4K

$204.5K

How much do chief estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 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's the average salary of an estimator?

The average salary of a chief estimator typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled estimators with certifications and proficiency in estimating software can earn higher salaries, especially in large or competitive markets.

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.

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.

Is a chief estimator a stressful job?

A chief estimator role can be stressful due to the responsibility of accurately forecasting project costs, managing tight deadlines, and coordinating with multiple teams. The job often requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to handle pressure during bidding and project planning phases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Estimator, and why are they important?

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.

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.

How much does a chief estimator make in the US?

A chief estimator in the US typically earns between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior estimators with extensive experience and certifications may earn higher salaries, especially in large or specialized construction firms.
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:
Infographic showing various Chief Estimator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $148,376 per year, or $71.3 per hour.

Chief Estimator

Blt Management LLC

Stamford, CT โ€ข On-site

$137K - $182K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

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 with a diverse portfolio spanning multifamily, commercial office, retail, and hospitality properties.

BLT is seeking an experienced and hands-on Chief Estimator to lead estimating efforts for complex mid- to high-rise residential and commercial office developments in Stamford, CT. This role is responsible for preparing and managing project estimates, developing budgets, evaluating subcontractor pricing, and supporting preconstruction planning from early design through bid execution and project turnover.

The ideal candidate is a highly skilled construction estimator with experience preparing detailed estimates for large-scale ground-up projects. This individual is collaborative, analytical, and thrives in a fast-paced environment while partnering closely with development, construction, architecture, engineering, and project management teams.


Responsibilities of the Chief Estimator
  • Lead estimating efforts for residential and commercial construction projects from conceptual design through bid completion.
  • Prepare conceptual budgets, detailed estimates, GMPs, hard bids, and cost analyses for complex ground-up construction projects.
  • Develop accurate estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and construction facilities across various contract types, including lump sum, negotiated, GMP, and time-and-material contracts.
  • Perform detailed quantity takeoffs, pricing analysis, scope reviews, constructability reviews, and value engineering exercises.
  • Review architectural, structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings, specifications, and contract documents to develop complete project estimates.
  • Solicit subcontractor and supplier pricing, evaluate proposals, identify scope gaps, and prepare comprehensive bid comparisons.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, consultants, and industry partners.
  • Collaborate closely with development, construction, architecture, engineering, and project management teams to establish project budgets and support project feasibility.
  • Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, design coordination meetings, and project planning sessions.
  • Prepare cost reports, estimate summaries, budget updates, and presentations for project teams and senior leadership.
  • Maintain historical cost databases, benchmarking information, and estimating resources to improve estimating accuracy and forecasting.
  • Monitor labor markets, subcontractor availability, material pricing, and industry trends affecting construction costs.
  • Support project teams throughout the preconstruction process by updating estimates as designs evolve.
  • Identify value engineering opportunities while maintaining project quality, constructability, and schedule objectives.
  • Collaborate with operations and project management teams to support successful project turnover and execution.

Qualifications of the Chief Estimator
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred.
  • 7-10+ years of progressive estimating experience in commercial, multifamily, mixed-use, or high-rise construction.
  • Proven experience independently preparing conceptual estimates, detailed estimates, hard bids, GMPs, and cost analyses for ground-up construction projects.
  • Strong knowledge of construction means and methods, building systems, scheduling, and project sequencing.
  • Ability to manage multiple estimates and competing priorities while meeting project deadlines.
  • Advanced understanding of construction drawings, specifications, scopes of work, and contract documents.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively alongside ownership, developers, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and construction teams.
  • Advanced proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Office, including Excel, Project, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, and database systems.
  • Prior experience mentoring junior estimators or providing technical guidance is a plus.

Benefits Offered to the Chief Estimator
  • Competitive compensation package with bonus potential
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Sick Leave
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Housing Discount at BLT Properties

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
BLT is an equal opportunity employer.ย Please note that this job description is intended to outline the general nature and key responsibilities of the role. It is not a comprehensive list, and duties may evolve over time based on business needs.
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