Entry Level Estimator

Job Title: Commercial Construction Project Estimator
Job Description
The Commercial Construction Project Estimator develops accurate, detailed, and competitive cost estimates for commercial construction projects while working in a collaborative, fast-paced team environment. This role suits a professional who takes ownership of their work, manages multiple estimates under tight deadlines, and communicates effectively with project teams and leadership. The Estimator reviews drawings, specifications, and project requirements to prepare comprehensive estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work, supporting the development of profitable and well-informed proposals. Success in this position requires strong analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a solid understanding of construction methods, codes, and current market conditions.
Responsibilities

• Review drawings, specifications, and project requirements to develop detailed cost estimates for commercial construction projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work to support accurate and competitive pricing.
• Solicit bids and pricing from subcontractors and vendors, ensuring timely receipt of complete and competitive proposals.
• Evaluate, compare, and level subcontractor and vendor bids to identify the most suitable and cost-effective options.
• Prepare comprehensive estimates and formal proposals that clearly outline scope, assumptions, and pricing structure.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to clarify scope, gather pricing, and resolve discrepancies.
• Analyze project risk factors, market conditions, and construction methods to inform pricing strategies and contingency planning.
• Participate in bid reviews and internal discussions to refine estimates and support decision-making on project pursuits.
• Manage multiple estimates simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines and maintaining high standards of accuracy and completeness.
• Adapt to evolving processes, tools, and standards within a growing organization to continuously improve estimating practices.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with internal teams and external partners to ensure alignment on project scope and expectations.
• Maintain organized documentation of estimates, assumptions, and supporting data for future reference and project handoff.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience in commercial construction estimation, including preparation of detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
• Strong proficiency with estimating software and related digital tools used to develop and manage construction estimates.
• Solid understanding of construction management principles and commercial construction processes.
• Demonstrated ability to perform accurate quantity takeoffs from drawings and specifications.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with the ability to interpret construction documents and translate them into precise cost estimates.
• In-depth knowledge of construction methods, applicable codes, and current market conditions affecting pricing and availability.
• Experience with pricing, bidding, and proposal preparation for commercial construction projects.
• Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration with project managers, architects, engineers, and subcontractors.
• High attention to detail and accuracy, with the ability to manage multiple estimates under tight deadlines.
• Ability to take ownership of work, follow through on commitments, and contribute positively to a collaborative team environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with a variety of commercial project types and scopes.
• Familiarity with evaluating and leveling subcontractor and vendor bids.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, growth-oriented organization with evolving processes.
• Strong organizational skills to maintain thorough documentation and support project handoff.
• Ability to assess and communicate project risks and assumptions within estimates.

Work Environment
This position is based in an in-person work environment within a collaborative and fast-paced commercial construction setting. The Estimator works closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and subcontractors, engaging regularly with team members to review drawings, discuss scope, and refine estimates. The role involves extensive use of estimating software and standard office technology to analyze documents, perform quantity takeoffs, and prepare proposals. The workday typically centers around office-based tasks, coordination meetings, and bid reviews, with a focus on meeting deadlines and supporting multiple concurrent project pursuits.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Sioux Falls, SD.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $36.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Sioux Falls,SD.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 5, 2026.
About Actalent


Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.


The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.


If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.



San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.



Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.



Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.