Commercial Estimator

Commercial Estimator

Chicago, Illinois

Full Time

Ideal Candidate: Candidate must be local to metro Chicago, Illinois with a knowledge of the market.

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Estimator to join our growing team. As a key contributor to our Pre-Construction Department, the Estimator will be responsible for leading the development of accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial construction projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in construction estimating, a deep understanding of commercial project scopes, and the ability to manage multiple bids in a fast-paced environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

PRE-CONSTRUCTION & ESTIMATING
• Analyze project specifications, drawings, and other documents to prepare detailed cost estimates.
• Develop comprehensive take-offs, ensuring all project components are accounted for.
• Collaborate with subcontractors and vendors to obtain competitive pricing and validate scope coverage.
• Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, and final bid estimates for projects of varying sizes and complexity.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and provide cost-saving recommendations.

BID MANAGEMENT & PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT
• Manage the bid process from start to finish, including pre-bid meetings, RFI submissions, and post-bid follow-ups.
• Review and evaluate subcontractor proposals, ensuring compliance with project requirements.
• Lead bid strategy meetings and provide input on the selection of qualified subcontractors and suppliers.
• Prepare and submit detailed proposals, ensuring that all deliverables are complete and submitted on time.

COLLABORATION & COMMUNICATION
• Work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, and other stakeholders to align cost estimates with project schedules and resource plans.
• Assist in negotiating contracts, scope reviews, and finalizing subcontractor agreements.
• Communicate effectively with clients, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to clarify project details and expectations.

COST ANALYSIS & REPORTING
• Analyze historical data and project performance to enhance the accuracy of future estimates.
• Monitor project budgets and work closely with project teams to ensure alignment with estimated costs.
• Provide regular reporting on bid activity, success rates, and market trends to senior management.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in estimating commercial construction projects with a General Contractor/Construction Manager.
• Proven track record of successfully bidding and securing commercial construction projects ranging from $1 million to $50 million.

TECHNICAL SKILLS
• Proficiency in estimating software such as Procore Estimating, Bluebeam, PlanSwift, On-Screen Takeoff (OST), or similar platforms.
• Strong understanding of construction means, methods, and materials across various project types.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, and Outlook)

Skills and Certifications
Civil Construction

Estimating

ProCore

Recruiter Submission Template:

Full Name:

Degree Major with University and Completion Year:

Where is most of your construction experience? Commercial or Residential?

How extensive is your experience in public sector bidding and work?

Where is most of your public sector experience? Local, State, or Federal?

Do you have experience estimating commercial construction projects specifically ground-up, design-build and renovation projects?

What is the largest sqft for projects you have estimate?

What is the highest dollar amount for projects you have estimated?

How many estimates you typically bid a week?

How many people have you managed in an estimating team?

What trade or skillset do you possess that give you a competitive edge when estimating?

What industry or trades do you have specialty in?

Do you have experience preparing conceptual estimates during the early design phase?

What areas are you most tech savvy?

What is your familiarity with collecting subs numbers on Building Connected?

Can you build a schedule using MS Project or P6?

Can you do digital takeoffs? If so what tools do you use?

What estimating software are you proficient in?

Motivation / Reason for Interest in this Position:

Contact Number:

Email ID:

LinkedIn ID:

Full Address (Street, City, State, ZIP):

Notice Period (in weeks):

Current Work Authorization (U.S. Citizen / Green Card / Visa - Specify):

Expected Salary:

Are you willing to relocate on your own expenses and work onsite in Chicago, Illinois / Commute?