Estimator/Sr. Purchasing Agent

We are a privately owned homebuilder focused on building high-quality homes with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, efficiency, and relationships. As a smaller, growing company, our team members wear multiple hats and play a direct role in shaping our processes and success. We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytically driven Estimator/Sr. Purchasing Agent to join our growing residential construction team in the DFW area. This role is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for custom and production homes, supporting budgeting, and collaborating closely with construction, design, and purchasing teams. You will work directly with ownership and construction leadership, gaining exposure to all aspects of construction, purchasing, and plan design. Key Responsibilities Prepare detailed cost estimates for residential construction projects, including labor, materials, and subcontractor scopes Perform quantity takeoffs from plans, and specifications Solicit, review, and compare bids from subcontractors and suppliers Ensure estimates align with company budgets, schedules, and profitability goals Negotiate pricing and terms with trade partners Maintain and update cost databases, unit pricing, and historical cost records Award contracts and issue purchase orders in alignment with project budgets Track and manage cost changes, variances, and vendor performance Collaborate with construction managers, architects, and designers to ensure cost-effective solutions Identify cost-saving opportunities and practical solutions in real time while maintaining quality standards Assist in value engineering exercises during all phases of plan development Conduct site visits to assess issues and gather information necessary for accurate estimating Continuously evaluate trade base for quality, pricing, and reliability Support purchasing efforts, including scope writing, bid packaging, standard specification development, and contract preparation Monitor market trends, material pricing, and subcontractor availability in the DFW region Training, mentoring, and development of junior staff Assist with other purchasing functions and duties as needed What Makes This Role Different Direct access to ownership and involvement in decision-making Ability to shape trade relationships and purchasing processes Broad exposure across estimating, construction, and vendor management Less bureaucracy - your decisions and relationships directly impact results Qualifications 3-7+ years of experience in residential purchasing and estimating, preferably in production homebuilding Strong understanding of residential construction methods, materials, and sequencing Strong negotiation and communication skills Experience with takeoff and estimating software (e.g., Buildertrend, CoConstruct, Bluebeam, or similar) Experience with Hyphen products (Brix, BuildPro, etc.) Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced skills preferred) Knowledge of the DFW subcontractor and supplier market is highly desirable Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills Preferred Skills Exposure to subcontractor negotiations and contract management Understanding of scopes of work and trade coordination Ability to build and maintain vendor relationships Strong communication and leadership skills Strategic thinking with a cost-control mindset Competitive salary based on experience Health, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off and holidays Career advancement opportunities into leadership roles #J-18808-Ljbffr Lillian Homes