Commercial Estimator

PURPOSE

Analyzes relatively commercial and multi-family blueprints and other documentation to develop a materials list and cost estimate, which give a reasonably accurate account of material costs to the sales department and customers. These estimates are used by sales for bidding purposes; to confirm construction and labor costs on contract jobs.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Receives information from the sales representative or customer on what materials are required in pricing a job.
• Reviews complex blueprints, drawings & selections sheets to understand specific details and/or any errors/issues. Resolves these issues with Project Manager and/or the customer.
• Using packaged estimating software (e.g. DQ2000, Estimating and Quote System), determines the linear and square footage to build wall structures and components such as headers for doors, beams, floor joists, etc.
• Assists sales department in supplying information on materials, such as availability, substitutions, and new materials.
• Maintains current, up-to-date pricing data.
• Determines how to maximize the use of stock material.
• Computes cost factors and prepares estimates used for management purposes such as preparing bids, selecting vendors or subcontractors, and determining cost effectiveness.
• Consults with clients, vendors, or other individuals to discuss and formulate estimates and resolve issues. May help advise contractors on engineering issues such as how to reduce construction costs on the project.
• Provides training and guidance to less experienced Estimators.
• Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.


Associate degree in construction technology from two-year college or technical school preferred. Must have prior (2-3 years) experience within the building construction industry.


COMPETENCIES

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as blueprints and computer manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively with customers or team members. Must practice good teamwork.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as linear and square feet, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Three to four years related Windows, Microsoft Office experience and/or training. Experienced on the use of estimating software. Digitized software experience desirable.
• This position impacts the sales department, special projects and manufacturing. It influences the company's ability to compete successfully in bidding for new jobs by accurately pricing materials. It also influences the efficiency of the production lines by providing accurate information regarding materials.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Subject to both typical office environment and outside locations with temperature and weather variations.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds frequently and on occasion up to 80 pounds.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or work on the computer; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.