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Estimator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Preconstruction Estimator Location: (Office-Based with Occasional Travel) Company: Cornerstone Detention Products, Inc. Job Summary Cornerstone Detention Products is seeking a Preconstruction ...

The estimating position is responsible for material take-offs for wood framing, interior and exterior doors, windows, trim, hardware, etc. Estimator reviews plans and specifications relative to the ...

Estimator

AL · On-site +1

$80K - $110K/yr

Taxable Entity ALUTIIQ PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING LLC Job Title Estimator Location AL Remote - Remote, AL 35806 US (Primary) Category Project Management Job Type Full-time Typical Pay/Range $80,000 to ...

Estimator - Entry Level Morgan Metals Inc - Athens, AL $40,000 - $55,000 salary per year | Day Shift Morgan Metals is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry Level Estimator to join our growing ...

Posted today

Construction - Estimator Huntsville, AL, US OR Cleveland, OH, US OR Tampa, FL, US Client a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned (SDVO) Small Business, is in search of an Estimator for its US Federal ...

The Estimator's primary responsibility and accountability is to provide an exceptional and successful customer experience while creating estimates, coordinating repair needs for customers including ...

Collision Estimator

Cullman, AL · On-site

$49K - $70K/yr

The Estimator's primary responsibility and accountability is to provide an exceptional and successful customer experience while creating estimates, coordinating repair needs for customers including ...

Writing estimates, conducting process reviews, checking in customer vehicles, completing final customer paperwork prior to vehicle delivery (DRP, final invoice), finalizing total loss administration ...

Be Seen First

Estimator/Office Admin

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

The estimator will use multiple software programs such as Xactimate and Symbility to sketch and type up property claims. Duties: ● Handle day-to-day admin task ● Sketch and type up various ...

Collision Estimator

Madison, AL · On-site

$50K - $110K/yr

Writing estimates, conducting process reviews, checking in customer vehicles, completing final customer paperwork prior to vehicle delivery (DRP, final invoice), finalizing total loss administration ...

Writing estimates, conducting process reviews, checking in customer vehicles, completing final customer paperwork prior to vehicle delivery (DRP, final invoice), finalizing total loss administration ...

Collision Estimator

Madison, AL · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Writing estimates, conducting process reviews, checking in customer vehicles, completing final customer paperwork prior to vehicle delivery (DRP, final invoice), finalizing total loss administration ...

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Estimator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$29.1K

$68.7K

$119.1K

How much do estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for estimator in Decatur, AL is $68,691.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,700.00 and $81,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to become an estimator?

Becoming an estimator typically requires a combination of relevant education, such as a degree in construction management or engineering, and experience in the field. Developing skills in cost analysis, reading blueprints, and using estimating software can also be important, but the difficulty varies depending on individual background and industry standards.

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

To thrive as an Estimator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in construction, engineering, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or professional experience. Familiarity with estimating software (such as Bluebeam, ProEst, or PlanSwift), cost databases, and Microsoft Excel is typically required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively with clients, vendors, and project teams. These competencies ensure accurate cost projections, minimize financial risks, and contribute to successful project planning and execution.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

For estimators, high-paying roles typically occur in specialized industries such as construction, engineering, or large-scale manufacturing, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or management responsibilities. Senior estimators or those in executive-level positions can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, particularly in large firms or high-cost regions. Achieving this level often requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and a strong track record of project success.

What's the average salary of an estimator?

The average salary of an estimator varies by industry and experience, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $75,000 annually. Experienced estimators with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $100,000. Factors such as location, company size, and project complexity influence compensation.

What does an estimator do?

An estimator is a professional who calculates the costs, materials, labor, and time required for a construction or manufacturing project. They review project plans, gather quotes from suppliers, and prepare detailed estimates to help determine project feasibility and budget. Strong analytical skills and familiarity with estimating software are essential for this role.

What Is an Estimator?

An estimator is a professional, often in the construction trade, whose job it is to deliver an accurate estimate of the cost of work requested by a potential client, usually to bid for a project. Estimators must understand the full scope of the project, as well as the material and labor costs, to provide an accurate estimate of costs. Estimators are good with math, have a sense of the common problems which may arise during a project, and can account for variances in materials and labor costs to provide accurate estimations.

How does an Estimator typically collaborate with project managers and other team members during the bidding process?

Estimators work closely with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams to gather project requirements, clarify scope, and identify potential risks. During the bidding process, they participate in meetings to review plans, discuss material options, and ensure that their cost projections align with project goals. Effective communication and coordination with these stakeholders are crucial, as estimators often need to adjust estimates based on new information or feedback. This collaborative approach helps create accurate, competitive bids and supports successful project execution.
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Estimator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Estimator job openings:
Infographic showing various Estimator job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,691 per year, or $33 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 21 hours ago


Job description

Preconstruction Estimator

Location: (Office-Based with Occasional Travel)

Company: Cornerstone Detention Products, Inc.

Job Summary

Cornerstone Detention Products is seeking a Preconstruction Estimator to support the successful pursuit and planning of detention facility construction projects. This role is responsible for preparing accurate project estimates, performing detailed quantity takeoffs, evaluating project risks, and developing competitive bid proposals.

The ideal candidate is analytical, detail-oriented, and collaborative, with a strong understanding of construction documents, estimating principles, and preconstruction processes. This position plays a key role in helping secure new work while ensuring smooth project transitions to the operations team.

Reporting Structure

Reports To: Preconstruction Director

Direct Reports: None

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Preconstruction

  • Prepare accurate cost estimates for detention construction projects.
  • Perform detailed material, labor, equipment, and specialty product quantity takeoffs.
  • Review architectural drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
  • Identify project risks, scope gaps, and value engineering opportunities.
  • Prepare complete bid proposals and scopes of work for submission.

Vendor & Subcontractor Management

  • Solicit pricing from vendors and subcontractors.
  • Analyze and negotiate proposals to ensure competitive pricing.
  • Maintain relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and industry partners.
  • Manage approved vendor lists and update product pricing information.

Bid Management & Project Coordination

  • Develop Job Cost Estimates (JCE) and project schedules.
  • Prepare schedules of values, letters of intent, and turnover documentation.
  • Coordinate project handoff to Project Management following contract award.
  • Attend preconstruction meetings and support procurement planning.

Business Development & Market Analysis

  • Qualify prospective opportunities.
  • Conduct customer presentations and support business development efforts.
  • Monitor market conditions, competitor activity, and industry trends.
  • Review contracts and identify licensing, permitting, and insurance requirements.

Qualifications

Education

  • High school diploma required.
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Science, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred.

Experience

  • Minimum one year of construction industry experience or a related degree required.
  • Five or more years of estimating experience preferred.
  • Experience with commercial construction estimating preferred.
  • Experience with Sage/Timberline estimating software is a plus.

Technical Skills

  • Strong understanding of construction documents, plans, and specifications.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Experience using estimating software.
  • Ability to interpret blueprints, schematics, and project documentation.
  • Strong mathematical, analytical, and organizational skills.

Key Competencies

  • Quantity takeoffs and cost estimating
  • Bid preparation and proposal development
  • Scope analysis and risk identification
  • Vendor and subcontractor negotiations
  • Cost analysis and budgeting
  • Contract review
  • Value engineering
  • Construction document interpretation
  • Project organization and time management

Behavioral Characteristics

  • Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Self-motivated and organized
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
  • Ethical and professional in all business interactions
  • Able to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines

Work Environment & Travel

  • Primarily office-based in a non-smoking environment
  • Occasional travel to project sites, customer meetings, and preconstruction meetings
  • Ability to sit for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 30 pounds

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive compensation based on experience
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Additional benefits discussed during the interview process

Why Join Cornerstone Detention Products?

  • Become part of a respected leader in the specialized detention construction industry.
  • Work on unique and technically challenging projects across the country.
  • Collaborate with experienced professionals in estimating, engineering, project management, and operations.
  • Play a key role in winning projects and shaping successful project execution from the earliest stages.
  • Join a company committed to quality, innovation, integrity, and long-term customer relationships.