Senior Estimator, Commercial Construction

Job Title: Senior Estimator, Commercial Construction


Location: Duluth, GA
Work Setting: In office with occasional job site visits as needed
Employment Type: Full-time, direct hire
Salary Range: $120,000 to $140,000 base salary


Quick Summary:
We are seeking a Senior Estimator with 7+ years of commercial construction estimating experience, preferably with a general contractor. This role requires strong experience with takeoffs, subcontractor bid review, cost analysis, and preconstruction support across commercial project types such as retail, light industrial, medical, office, or similar construction.


Position Overview:
A growing commercial general contractor is seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to lead estimating efforts for commercial construction projects. This person will be responsible for reviewing plans and specifications, preparing detailed cost estimates, coordinating with subcontractors and suppliers, and supporting competitive bid development.


The ideal candidate has strong commercial construction estimating experience, understands current material and labor costs, and can work closely with project managers, superintendents, ownership, and design teams during the preconstruction and bidding process.


Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the preparation of detailed cost estimates for commercial construction projects.
• Review architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings and specifications.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop accurate cost breakdowns.
• Solicit, review, and compare subcontractor and supplier bids.
• Negotiate pricing and clarify scope with subcontractors and vendors.
• Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, and design teams during preconstruction.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving options.
• Prepare bid proposals, estimate summaries, and internal reports.
• Assist with risk review, scope gaps, exclusions, and contract-related cost considerations.
• Maintain and update historical cost data, unit pricing, and market trend information.
• Support and mentor junior estimating staff when needed.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum 7 years of commercial construction estimating experience.
• Experience working for a general contractor is strongly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of commercial construction materials, methods, sequencing, and costs.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and scopes of work.
• Experience soliciting and analyzing subcontractor and supplier bids.
• Proficiency with estimating or takeoff software such as Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, iSqFt, Sage Estimating, or similar tools.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to prepare accurate and competitive estimates.
• Familiarity with budgeting, scheduling, and project management principles.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field is preferred, but equivalent experience will be considered.

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to visit job sites as needed.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Stable work history and strong professional references preferred.