Chief Estimator

Chief EstimatorLocation: Fairfield, NJCompensation: $160,000 – $200,000 | Based on ExperienceEmployment Type: Full-Time, On-SiteAbout the RoleOur client is a fast-growing concrete and masonry subcontractor operating at the highest levels of the NYC-area construction market. They are seeking a Chief Estimator to take immediate ownership of the estimating function — a senior leader who will set the standard for precision, client engagement, and team performance.This is a critical hire. The right candidate brings not only deep technical expertise in concrete and masonry estimating but also the executive presence to represent the company in front of clients and the leadership strength to develop and manage a small, high-performing estimating team. No shortcuts. No exceptions.What We're Looking ForThis role demands someone who earns trust at every level — from the field to the boardroom.A proven leader with demonstrated success managing and mentoring an estimating teamExceptional communicator — written, verbal, and client-facing with no gaps • Relentlessly thorough; sets and enforces the highest standards in bid accuracy and documentationExperienced in NYC-area concrete and masonry construction — knows the market, the subs, the ownersAble to prioritize competing bids without compromising quality on any of themCore ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Team DevelopmentLead, manage, and develop a small estimating team; establish performance expectations and mentoring practicesServe as the final authority on all estimates prior to submissionBuild and enforce estimating standards, procedures, and quality controls across the departmentClient & Stakeholder EngagementRepresent Solid Development Group in pre-bid meetings, client presentations, and scope review discussionsDevelop and maintain strong relationships with owners, GCs, suppliers, and vendorsCommunicate proactively with clients throughout the bid process — from RFP receipt through awardEstimating ExecutionOversee and personally execute complex quantity take-offs for concrete material and rebar using take-off softwareRead, interpret, and analyze structural, architectural, and MEP drawings and concrete specificationsAnalyze, mark up, and respond to scopes of work (SOW) as part of the bid processReceive, track, and manage all bid exhibits, addenda, and RFI documentationPrepare complete bid packages including estimates, schedules, and material take-offsOverlay and analyze drawing revisions to identify and quantify scope changesMaintain current supplier and vendor pricing relationships to ensure competitive and accurate material costsQualificationsMinimum 10 years of experience in concrete and masonry construction estimating — requiredMinimum 3–5 years in a senior or lead estimating role with direct reports • Deep familiarity with NYC-area construction market, costs, labor, and code requirementsExpert-level proficiency with estimating software (Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, or equivalent) • Advanced Excel skills; proficient in full Microsoft Office suiteSuperior ability to read and interpret construction blueprints, structural drawings, and specificationsOutstanding written and verbal communication skills — this is non-negotiableAuthorized to work in the United States; no third-party offers of service will be considered