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Contractor Estimator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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This role will focus on developing new business, building strong contractor relationships ... Work with contractors, estimators, project managers, engineers, and internal teams to develop ...

Primoris Gas Operations, which consist of companies such as Q3 Contracting, ARB, Primoris ... The Estimator completes intermediate sized estimates by performing a thorough and complete bid ...

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This role will focus on developing new business, building strong contractor relationships ... Work with contractors, estimators, engineers, manufacturers, and internal teams to develop HVAC ...

Junior Estimator

Plymouth, MN · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

Entry-Level HVAC Estimator Location: Mound, MN (Training Onsite | Hybrid Potential After Training ... They partner with consulting engineers, mechanical contractors, and design-build firms throughout ...

Junior Estimator

Minnetonka, MN · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

Entry-Level HVAC Estimator Location: Mound, MN (Training Onsite | Hybrid Potential After Training ... They partner with consulting engineers, mechanical contractors, and design-build firms throughout ...

Junior Estimator

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

Entry-Level HVAC Estimator Location: Mound, MN (Training Onsite | Hybrid Potential After Training ... They partner with consulting engineers, mechanical contractors, and design-build firms throughout ...

Junior Estimator

Buffalo, MN · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

Entry-Level HVAC Estimator Location: Mound, MN (Training Onsite | Hybrid Potential After Training ... They partner with consulting engineers, mechanical contractors, and design-build firms throughout ...

Estimator

Greenfield, MN · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Obtain quotes from suppliers and contractors within set deadlines, distribute bids among multiple parties to determine the most competitive option for estimates. Evaluate project risks and develop ...

Estimator

Greenfield, MN · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Description: The Estimator is responsible for analyzing project requirements and developing ... with contractors and vendors. · Conduct site visits as needed to review existing conditions ...

Primoris Gas Operations, which consist of companies such as Q3 Contracting, ARB, Primoris ... The Estimator completes intermediate sized estimates by performing a thorough and complete bid ...

Estimator II Otsego, MN | $75,000-$95,000 | Direct Hire Konik is partnering with an established civil construction contractor seeking an Estimator II to develop accurate, competitive bids for ...

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Contractor Estimator information

What is a contractor estimator?

Contractor estimators are professionals who assess the costs associated with construction projects. They analyze project plans, materials, labor, and timelines to develop detailed and accurate cost estimates for clients, contractors, or developers. Their work is crucial for budgeting, bidding, and ensuring projects stay within financial constraints. Estimators often use specialized software and must have a strong understanding of construction methods and industry pricing. Their estimates help guide project decisions and prevent costly overruns.

How does a contractor estimator typically collaborate with project managers and engineers during the bidding process?

Contractor Estimators work closely with project managers and engineers to ensure that all aspects of a project are accurately costed and feasible. This collaboration often involves reviewing blueprints and specifications together, discussing materials and labor requirements, and clarifying any technical details that could impact the estimate. Regular meetings and open communication are key, as estimators rely on input from the project team to produce accurate bids that reflect current market conditions and project scope. This teamwork helps minimize risks, avoid costly errors, and increase the chances of winning profitable contracts.

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

To thrive as a Contractor Estimator, you need a solid background in construction principles, mathematics, and project management, often supported by a degree in construction management or a related field. Familiarity with cost estimation software like Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or ProEst, as well as proficiency in reading blueprints and using Microsoft Excel, is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, negotiation skills, and effective communication help estimators excel in collaborating with stakeholders and ensuring project accuracy. These skills are crucial for producing reliable cost projections, minimizing financial risk, and securing successful project bids.

What is the difference between Contractor Estimator vs Construction Project Manager?

AspectContractor EstimatorConstruction Project Manager
CredentialsEstimating certifications, construction knowledgeProject management certifications, experience in construction
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, on-site for measurementsOn-site supervision, office planning
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, subcontractorsGeneral contractors, construction companies
Primary FocusCost estimation, bid preparationProject planning, execution, and oversight

While both roles are integral to construction projects, a Contractor Estimator primarily focuses on preparing accurate cost estimates and bids, whereas a Construction Project Manager oversees the entire project execution, managing teams, schedules, and budgets.

How to become a contractor estimator?

To become a contractor estimator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in construction or related fields. Many estimators pursue post-secondary education in construction management, engineering, or related areas, and develop skills in reading blueprints, cost analysis, and using estimating software. Certifications such as the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) can enhance job prospects.

Is a construction estimator a good career?

A construction estimator is a valuable role in the construction industry, responsible for calculating 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 does a contractor estimator do for a contractor?

A contractor estimator calculates the costs of materials, labor, and equipment needed for construction projects. They prepare detailed bids and budgets to help contractors plan and secure work, often using estimating software and reviewing project plans. Accurate estimates are essential for profitability and project success.

What are popular job titles related to Contractor Estimator jobs in Minnesota?

For Contractor Estimator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Contractor Estimator jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Contractor Estimator job openings:

Commercial Plumbing Sales Estimator

Marsden Services

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

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Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking a driven Commercial Plumbing Sales Estimator to support the growth of Signature Mechanical throughout the Twin Cities metro area. This role will focus on developing new business, building strong contractor relationships, identifying commercial plumbing opportunities, and growing our project pipeline.

The ideal candidate will have experience in commercial plumbing, mechanical construction, estimating, project management, distribution, or construction sales, with a strong understanding of the commercial construction process.

This position will work closely with plumbing and mechanical contractors, general contractors, engineers, architects, and building owners to identify opportunities and develop projects from preconstruction and bidding through award and completion.

If you are a relationship-driven, competitive, and entrepreneurial sales professional with a strong commercial plumbing or mechanical construction background, we want to hear from you.


Key Responsibilities

• Generate new commercial plumbing revenue and consistently meet or exceed sales targets.

• Develop and maintain relationships with commercial plumbing contractors, mechanical contractors, general contractors, construction managers, engineers, architects, property owners, and facility management professionals.

• Identify upcoming commercial construction, renovation, tenant improvement, retrofit, and replacement opportunities.

• Develop project opportunities during the design, specification, preconstruction, estimating, and bidding stages.

• Review commercial plumbing plans, specifications, drawings, schedules, and scopes of work to identify opportunities and project requirements.

• Work with contractors, estimators, project managers, engineers, and internal teams to develop appropriate plumbing solutions and proposals.

• Prepare and present quotes, proposals, and project-specific solutions for commercial plumbing opportunities.

• Gather and utilize business intelligence on prospects and projects to support prospecting, presentations, bids, proposals, and new business generation.

• Build and maintain a strong network of commercial plumbing and mechanical construction professionals.

• Conduct regular customer, contractor, and jobsite visits to develop relationships and identify additional sales opportunities.

• Participate in pre-bid meetings, contractor meetings, networking events, trade organizations, and industry functions.

• Maintain a consistent sales cadence and engage in weekly reporting and prospecting activity.

• Maintain CRM for sales, project, customer, and pipeline tracking.

• Monitor project pipelines, bidding activity, competitive conditions, pricing, and market trends.

• Work closely with estimating, operations, purchasing, project management, and leadership to support successful project execution.

• Negotiate pricing and commercial terms while maintaining appropriate company margins.

• Assist with strategic sales initiatives and other business development activities as directed by leadership.


Skills and Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in commercial plumbing, mechanical construction, plumbing distribution, estimating, project management, or related industry preferred.

• 2+ years of B2B sales or business development experience preferred.

• Strong commercial construction and mechanical industry background required.

• Demonstrated knowledge of commercial plumbing systems, construction practices, and project lifecycles.

• Ability to read and understand commercial plumbing plans, specifications, drawings, and project documents.

• Experience working with plumbing contractors, mechanical contractors, general contractors, engineers, architects, or construction managers strongly preferred.

• Commercial plumbing estimating, takeoff, project management, or field experience is highly valued.

• Existing relationships within the commercial construction and mechanical contractor community are a significant advantage.

• Valid Driver’s License required.

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Experience and knowledge of Salesforce is preferred but not required.

• Demonstrated confidence and self-assurance are essential for effectively engaging contractors, construction professionals, and prospects.

• A high level of self-motivation, strong goal orientation, and an entrepreneurial mindset are essential for success in this role.

• Strong communication, presentation, negotiation, organization, and relationship-building skills required.

• Ability to understand technical information and communicate plumbing solutions effectively to both technical and non-technical customers.


Wages

Base Salary + Commission (Uncapped Earning Potential)


Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Hours typically occur within normal business hours, 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday. There will be times that meetings, jobsite visits, walkthroughs, contractor meetings, or networking events may occur outside of these hours.

• This position requires the ability to manage a combination of office, customer, contractor, and jobsite activities throughout the workweek.


Travel

• 10% required travel. Overnight stays are infrequent but may occur depending on business needs.

• Frequent driving between customer accounts, construction projects, meetings, jobsites, and walkthroughs will occur throughout a typical workday, in a personal vehicle. You will be reimbursed for business mileage.

• Airline travel may be required for annual sales training to the corporate office or regional office.


Business Conduct

• Commits to behave in compliance with the Company’s values and Code of Conduct.

• Builds a culture of work safety and leads by example with one’s own safe behavior.

• Ensures one’s own compliance with the Company’s published Operating Standards.

• Treats co-workers with respect and approaches conflict with positive intent and professionalism.

• Asks questions to understand why we do what we do and how we do it – champions change when improvements can be made.


EEO Statement

Signature Mechanical and its affiliates provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry or sexual or affectional orientation, marital or veteran status, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, status with regard to public assistance or any characteristic protected under federal, state or local law.