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Contractor Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SummitHR

Senior Estimator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$130 - $145/hr

Prepare fair cost estimates for cost proposals from Contractors for extra * Perform special studies and prepare reports when contractors' bids vary from the construction cost * Conduct construction ...

Thomas Construction Group LLC

Estimator

Wilmington, NC · On-site

About Thomas Thomas Construction Group is an innovative, full-service general contractor achieving ... About the Role In this role, estimators are responsible for developing complete, accurate, and ...

ZARRELLCO

Estimator - Civil Contractor

Columbus, OH

$75K - $115K/yr

... of estimating and/or project management experience at a civil or sitework contractor * Strong understanding of construction means, methods, and cost structures for utility, paving, and sitework ...

JCQ Services

Estimator

Orlando, FL · On-site

We are looking for an Estimator with the depth of a senior-level professional who possesses experience in subcontractor bidding and general contractor estimating. Each day, you'll work alongside a ...

W3Global Inc.

General Contracting Estimator

Markham, IL

$70K - $90K/yr

The General Contract Estimator plays a critical role in the successful planning and execution of large-scale commercial concrete construction projects. This position is responsible for analyzing ...

K2 Staffing, LLC

Estimator Process Piping

Cypress, CA

$85K - $120K/yr

Summary A leading specialty contractor, ranked in the top 15% on ENR's Best Specialty Contractors list, is seeking a Process Piping Estimator in Cypress, CA . The role focuses on preparing and ...

Boutique Recruiting

Sr Estimator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$160K - $190K/yr

Commercial general contractor estimating experience * Required experience in one of the following industries: industrial, health care, pharma/lab * Experience with similar-sized projects (about $40M)

K2 Staffing

Estimator Process Piping

Cypress, CA

Summary A leading specialty contractor, ranked in the top 15% on ENRs Best Specialty Contractors list, is seeking a Process Piping Estimator in Cypress, CA . The role focuses on preparing and ...

Acloche-Direct Hire

Be Seen First

Electrical Estimator

Somerville, MA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Six (6) or more years of dedicated electrical contracting estimating experience. * Market Expertise : Strong familiarity with the regional Greater Boston construction market, including local vendor ...

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Contractor Estimator information

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$35.5K

$83K

$135K

How much do contractor estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractor 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 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.

What are contractor estimators?

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.
More about Contractor Estimator jobs
What cities are hiring for Contractor Estimator jobs? Cities with the most Contractor Estimator job openings:
What states have the most Contractor Estimator jobs? States with the most job openings for Contractor Estimator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contractor Estimator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contractor Estimator jobs are:
Contractor Estimator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contractor Estimator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,002 per year, or $39.9 per hour.
Senior Estimator

Senior Estimator

SummitHR

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$130 - $145/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Description:

  • Senior level estimator who specializes in General trades to report to Program Controls Manager and Chief Estimator.
  • Plan and participate in the preparation of construction cost estimates of buildings or other structures from drawings, outlines, and specifications.
  • Prepare estimates per design based on scope and building
  • Evaluate cost estimating deliverables prepared by consultants for cost containment, accuracy, uniformity and completeness.
  • Prepare fair cost estimates for cost proposals from Contractors for extra
  • Perform special studies and prepare reports when contractors' bids vary from the construction cost
  • Conduct construction/project site visits gathering relevant information and determine what information to be used to produce project estimates.
  • Evaluate pricing documents, historical and vendor cost data for the development of cost estimates and price recommendations.
  • Evaluate quotes, bids, change orders, value engineering reports, and claims for accuracy and completeness of estimates.
  • Compile and analyze data on all factors that influence costs such as material, labor, equipment and profit
  • Prepare technical evaluations, cost estimating draft report, memos and letters and present recommendation to management.
  • Very familiar with CSI Master Format (with Uni-format is a plus)

Minimum Required Qualifications:

10-15 years recent professional experience in the preparation of complete cost estimates for type I, II, or III, and V building construction as defined by the State building code including two years in a supervisory capacity.

Expert in theories, principles, and practices of cost estimating and contract

Expert in JOC (Job Order Contracting) form of contracting

Full knowledge of construction methods for buildings and

Full knowledge of current local construction labor and material

Extensive experience in developing and estimating the scope of work for change

Ability to compare cost estimates with contractors' proposal to quickly identify

Ability to develop scope of work based on RFI/RFC answers and estimates the detailed costs of those scopes of work independent of the contractor proposal.

BS/BA Degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Business or related Additional qualifying experience in excess to the minimum stated above may be substituted for the required education on a year for year basis.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Expert in usage of eGordian Database for JOC (Job Order Contracting) estimating
  • Knowledge of Prevailing Wage/Union Labor rates
  • Knowledge and use of RS Means including NECA and MCAA labor productivity
  • Knowledge and use of RS Means Cost Estimating online system

Job Posted by ApplicantPro
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About SummitHR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

SummitHR makes a commitment to our clients and candidates to listen to your goals and ideas. We deliver innovative solutions that prove a personal understanding of the culture, vision and brand you represent. We offer dynamic solutions, because We are committed to your success.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Alhambra, CA, US

View All SummitHR Jobs