Position Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Construction Estimator to join our growing team. The Construction Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for federal, commercial, and industrial construction projects. This position works closely with project managers, operations personnel, subcontractors, and clients to develop complete project pricing while identifying opportunities to improve value and manage risk.
The ideal candidate has strong analytical skills, experience with government contracting, and a thorough understanding of construction methods, labor productivity, equipment costs, and subcontractor procurement.
Primary Responsibilities
- Review drawings, specifications, and solicitation documents to develop comprehensive project estimates.
- Perform quantity takeoffs for all construction disciplines.
- Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
- Develop labor, equipment, material, and subcontract cost estimates.
- Prepare conceptual, budgetary, negotiated, and hard-bid estimates.
- Analyze project risks, assumptions, exclusions, and contingency requirements.
- Attend pre-bid meetings and perform site visits as required.
- Coordinate with operations personnel to ensure estimates reflect actual construction means and methods.
- Assist in developing project schedules and sequencing during the estimating process.
- Prepare bid summaries, proposal pricing, and estimate review packages for management approval.
- Maintain historical cost databases and unit pricing information.
- Participate in post-award handoff meetings with project management teams.
- Support value engineering initiatives to improve project competitiveness.
- Stay current with market conditions, labor rates, material pricing, and industry trends.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- Construction estimating experience.
- Strong understanding of commercial, industrial, and/or federal construction.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
- Experience preparing detailed quantity takeoffs.
- Knowledge of construction methods, scheduling, and project execution.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and analytical skills.
- Ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience estimating federal government projects (USACE, NAVFAC, VA, GSA, DoW, etc.).
- Knowledge of FAR and DFARS requirements.
- Experience with Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, MATOC, IDIQ, and JOC contracts.
- Familiarity with RSMeans or other construction cost databases.
- Experience using estimating software
- OSHA 30 certification is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong mathematical and analytical capabilities.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to identify project risks and pricing opportunities.
- Strong negotiation and vendor relationship skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Professional communication with clients, subcontractors, and internal teams.
- Sound judgment and problem-solving ability.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods.
- Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to visit active construction sites, including walking uneven terrain and climbing stairs or ladders while wearing required PPE.
Benefits
We offer a competitive compensation package including:
- Competitive salary
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid Time Off and paid holidays
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Company-paid life insurance
- Short- and long-term disability coverage
Why Join Our Team?
You'll play a key role in winning projects that improve critical infrastructure and serve federal, state, and commercial clients. We value integrity, teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement, providing opportunities for professional growth while working on meaningful construction projects.
Equal Employment Opportunity
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The strongest candidates will have experience estimating federal construction, operations & maintenance (O&M), design-build, and task order contracts, along with a solid understanding of subcontractor procurement, self-perform work, scheduling, and cost control. Experience with NAVFAC, USACE, VA, or other DoD agencies is especially valuable.