Junior Estimator

Junior Estimator

Title: Junior Estimator - Position Status: Full-Time

Division: Pre-Construction - FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports To: Assistant VP of Estimating - Issue Date: January 26, 2026

Position Purpose

An HBW Construction Junior Estimator calculates preliminary job budgets and prepares formal job bids through interpreting blueprints, performing take-offs, and estimating job costs. The Estimator interfaces with clients and their representatives to ensure that technical specifications and designs are feasible and consistent with industry standards.

Principal Duties and Areas of Responsibilities

Budgeting

HBW Construction Estimators are responsible for developing preliminary pricing estimates (budgets). The Estimator:

• Develops budgets with preliminary plan information and professional knowledge and expertise.
• Recognizes possible issues and/or inconsistencies and communicates them.
• Provides a thorough and carefully thought-out preliminary cost estimate based on client provided documents and interviews.

Bidding

HBW Construction Estimators are responsible for developing accurate and complete job estimates. The Estimator identifies project labor, material, and time requirements by studying proposals, blueprints, written specifications, and related documents.

• Conducts site visits and attends pre-bid meetings to understand project scope.
• Conducts review and take-off of blueprints.
• Requests additional information as necessary.
• Solicits bids from subcontractors. Makes subcontractors aware of unusual plan requirements.
• Gathers subcontractor pricing and conducts scope review.
• Evaluates subcontractor bids to bid documents and plans to ensure that full scope of work was considered. Also considers subcontractors ability to perform the work.
• Calculates costs of subcontract labor, general conditions, and materials.
• Collaborates with the client to help them achieve their project cost budget through consideration of plan details, alternate material/finishes and building methods.
• Reviews job scope, general conditions, job schedule, profit, and subcontractor pricing with the Project Manager.
• Follows up with clients to ensure bids are received and answers any client questions.
• Works closely with Project Managers and the Pre-Construction team to maintain relationships with existing clients and subcontractors.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Must possess a working knowledge of construction documentation and pricing; ability to read plans and specifications and translate them into estimates.
• Proficient in Microsoft O365 (especially Excel) and Take-Off software.
• High school diploma or equivalent required, college degree preferred.
• Strong communication (written and verbal), math and analytical skills.
• Ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects concurrently, meeting deadlines.
• LEED experience preferred.
• 1-2 years of experience as an Estimator for a general contractor.

Physical Qualifications

• Must be able to lift/move up to 35 lbs.
• Ability to effectively communicate and receive direction.
• Frequently required to walk, sit, and use hands.
• Must be able to visit project sites.

This position description will be reviewed periodically as duties and responsibilities change with business necessity. Essential and marginal job functions are subject to modification. Nothing in this position description constitutes any form of employment contract or restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.