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Estimation Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

It also manages estimating operations, pricing strategy, and margin performance, ensuring alignment between commercial objectives and manufacturing capabilities. Responsibilities * Lead, coach, and ...

Preconstruction Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85 - $100/hr

Preconstruction Manager As a Preconstruction Manager, you will lead high‑level management of ... Create detailed conceptual estimates and develop scopes of work for each trade. Review scopes with ...

New

This role coordinates contractor engagement, bidding, estimating, commercial alignment, project ... Stakeholder Management, Contract Management, Quality Management, Financial Management, Schedule ...

This role coordinates contractor engagement, bidding, estimating, commercial alignment, project ... Stakeholder Management, Contract Management, Quality Management, Financial Management, Schedule ...

Preconstruction Manager

Chicago, IL · Remote

$90K - $130K/yr

This role coordinates contractor engagement, bidding, estimating, commercial alignment, project ... Stakeholder Management, Contract Management, Quality Management, Financial Management, Schedule ...

Spend Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$77K - $135K/yr

You will partner with the Vizient Spend Executive and Category Management team to align supply ... Estimated Hiring Range: At Vizient, we consider skills, experience, and organizational needs in our ...

Spend Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$77K - $135K/yr

You will partner with the Vizient Spend Executive and Category Management team to align supply ... Estimated Hiring Range: At Vizient, we consider skills, experience, and organizational needs in our ...

Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Contribute to RFP responses, proposals, Statements of Work (SOWs), estimates, and client ... Manage project governance, financials, risk, and overall engagement health. * Mentor consulting ...

Manager, Prvt Equity Acctng

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103 - $175.20/hr

## Manager, Prvt Equity AcctngApplylocations: Chicago, ILtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted ... Salary range is a good faith estimate of base pay. Northern Trust provides a comprehensive benefits ...

Manager, Prvt Equity Acctng

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103K - $175K/yr

About Northern Trust As a global leader in innovative wealth management, asset servicing, asset ... a good faith estimate of base pay. Northern Trust provides a comprehensive benefits package ...

Manager, Prvt Equity Acctng

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$103K - $175K/yr

About Northern Trust As a global leader in innovative wealth management, asset servicing, asset ... a good faith estimate of base pay. Northern Trust provides a comprehensive benefits package ...

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Estimation Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$28.3K

$84.1K

$141.6K

How much do estimation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for estimation manager in Chicago, IL is $84,139.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an estimation manager do?

An Estimation Manager is responsible for overseeing the process of calculating the costs, resources, and time required for a project, usually in industries like construction, engineering, or manufacturing. They lead a team of estimators to analyze project specifications, review blueprints, and gather data to produce accurate cost estimates. Estimation Managers also coordinate with project managers, engineers, and clients to ensure that estimates align with project requirements and budgets. Their work is essential for bidding on projects, setting budgets, and ensuring projects are financially viable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an estimation manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Estimation Manager, you need a strong background in cost estimation, project management, and industry-specific knowledge, often supported by a degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field. Familiarity with estimation software (like CostX, Sage Estimating, or Bluebeam), spreadsheets, and sometimes relevant certifications such as AACE or RICS is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, leadership, and effective communication skills help you lead teams and clearly convey complex cost data to stakeholders. These skills are essential for producing accurate estimates, managing risks, and ensuring project profitability and client satisfaction.

How does an estimation manager typically collaborate with project managers and other departments during the bidding process?

An Estimation Manager works closely with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams to gather accurate project requirements, assess risks, and develop comprehensive cost estimates. Regular meetings and clear communication are essential to ensure all departments are aligned on project scope, timelines, and resource needs. By facilitating collaboration, the Estimation Manager helps create competitive bids that reflect both client expectations and company capabilities.

What is the difference between Estimation Manager vs Estimator?

AspectEstimation ManagerEstimator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or related field; certifications like CPC or AACE are commonOften holds similar degrees or certifications; may have less managerial training
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, oversees multiple projects, and manages estimation processesFocuses on preparing cost estimates for individual projects
Industry UsageUsed in construction, engineering, and large-scale project firmsCommonly found in similar industries, often as a team member

The Estimation Manager oversees the entire estimation process and manages teams, while the Estimator focuses on preparing specific project estimates. Both roles require relevant credentials and industry experience, but the manager has broader responsibilities and leadership duties.

Is estimating a stressful job?

Estimating as an Estimation Manager can be stressful due to tight deadlines, accuracy requirements, and the need to coordinate with multiple teams. The role demands attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and often involves managing large projects, which can contribute to work-related stress.

What job categories do people searching Estimation Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Estimation Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Estimation Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Estimation Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Estimation Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,139 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Estimating Manager - Fire Sprinkler

Ryan Fireprotection, Inc.

Valparaiso, IN

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Estimating Manager – Fire Sprinkler
Valparaiso, IN
Position Overview
The Estimating Manager is responsible for leading and developing a team of Sales Engineers (Estimators) who pursue new project opportunities and build relationships with general contractors and owner-direct customers for fire sprinkler projects. This role oversees the bid pipeline, ensures estimate and proposal accuracy, drives capture rates and margin performance, and ensures a smooth handoff of sold projects to operations. The Estimating Manager plays a critical role in shaping bidding strategy, mentoring estimating staff, and supporting the overall growth of the fire protection contract sales function.
Team Leadership amp; Development
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 2-4 Sales Engineers, providing coaching on estimating practices, customer engagement, and proposal quality
  • Set individual and team performance goals tied to bid volume, capture rates, margin targets, and customer relationship growth
  • Conduct regular one-on-ones, performance reviews, and skills development planning
  • Foster a collaborative team environment that works effectively across departments
  • Bid Strategy amp; Pipeline Management
  • Establish bidding priorities across the team based on capture rates, margin opportunities, customer relationships, and operational capacity
  • Review the bid pipeline regularly to ensure resources are focused on the highest-value opportunities
  • Monitor win/loss data and adjust strategy to improve hit rates and profitability
  • Approve bid/no-bid decisions and provide guidance on pricing strategy for complex or high-value projects
Estimate amp; Proposal Oversight
  • Review estimates prepared by Sales Engineers for accuracy, code compliance, and economic competitiveness
  • Ensure quotes properly account for project specifications, special equipment and materials, subcontractor needs, and rental pricing
  • Lead bid reviews with the department head and ensure team members are prepared with organized, complete documentation
  • Verify proposals match bid document requirements and are clear, concise, complete, and free of grammatical errors or contradictions
  • Ensure job award paperwork is completed accurately and on time, and that turnover meetings with operations are well-prepared
  • Confirm that scope of work, conditions, expectations, opportunities, and payment terms are clearly defined at handoff
  • Support operations with pricing questions, change order strategy, and conflict resolution on sold projects
Customer Relationships
  • Maintain and grow direct relationships with key general contractors and project owners
  • Support Sales Engineers in customer-facing meetings, negotiations, and conflict resolution
  • Identify new market opportunities and target accounts to expand the customer base
Required Qualifications
  • 5-7 years of progressive experience in estimating, sales engineering, or contract sales within the fire protection industry
  • Demonstrated experience preparing and reviewing fire protection estimates and proposals
  • Prior leadership experience or evidence of readiness to lead a team (formal or informal)
  • Working knowledge of fire protection codes, materials, equipment, and subcontractor markets
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce clear, error-free proposals
  • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet bid deadlines, and solve problems under pressure
  • Ability to work effectively with a wide range of personalities, both internally and with customers
  • Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, business, or related field
  • NICET certification or equivalent fire protection industry credentials
Requirements
  • Candidates must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. The ability to drive to job sites / work locations may be a requirement of this position. A motor vehicle record (MVR) check will be conducted as part of the hiring process.
  • Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.