Senior Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

We are a highly respected general contractor specializing in multi-family, mixed-use, hospitality, retail, and commercial developments throughout Southern California. Our portfolio includes large-scale podium apartments, urban infill communities, mixed-use destinations, and other complex ground-up projects that shape the region’s skyline and communities.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to join our San Diego team. This role is ideal for a construction professional with deep estimating expertise, strong leadership skills, and a passion for delivering accurate, strategic cost solutions on complex projects.

As a key member of our preconstruction team, you will lead estimating efforts from conceptual budgeting through GMP development and support the successful pursuit and delivery of high-profile projects.

Position Summary

The Senior Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and comprehensive estimates for multi-family and commercial mixed-use construction projects. This role collaborates closely with preconstruction managers, project executives, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and ownership teams to develop competitive pricing, identify project risks, and drive value throughout the preconstruction process.

The ideal candidate has extensive ground-up estimating experience, strong market knowledge in Southern California, and the ability to mentor junior estimators while contributing strategically to project pursuits.

Key Responsibilities

1. Lead conceptual, schematic, design development, and GMP estimating efforts for multi-family and commercial mixed-use projects.

2. Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost analyses using current market pricing and historical data.

3. Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and vendor bids.

4. Develop comprehensive estimate summaries, clarifications, assumptions, and proposal documents.

5. Perform value engineering and constructability reviews to optimize project cost and feasibility.

6. Analyze drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and other project documents for scope completeness.

7. Identify cost drivers, schedule impacts, and project risks; develop mitigation strategies.

8. Collaborate with preconstruction managers and operations teams during project handoff.

9. Maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners throughout Southern California.

10. Track market trends, labor conditions, and material pricing to keep estimates current and competitive.

11. Mentor and support junior estimators and contribute to continuous improvement of estimating processes.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).

• 8+ years of estimating experience with a general contractor.

• Extensive experience with ground-up multi-family, mixed-use, and commercial construction projects.

• Strong conceptual estimating and budgeting capabilities.

• Proven ability to prepare GMP and negotiated estimates.

• Excellent analytical, communication, and organizational skills.

• Proficiency with estimating and construction management software.

Preferred

• 10+ years of estimating leadership experience.

• Experience with projects ranging from $25M to $300M+.

• Knowledge of San Diego and Southern California subcontractor markets.

• Design-build or collaborative delivery experience.

• Advanced proficiency in Excel and estimating platforms such as BuildingConnected, Bluebeam, Sage Estimating, or DESTINI.

What We Offer

• Annual performance bonus

• Vehicle allowance or company vehicle

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) with company match

• Paid vacation and holidays

• Professional development and advancement opportunities

• Collaborative, high-performing team culture

• Opportunity to work on some of Southern California’s most significant developments