Junior Estimator

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Troy, MI, US

Salary Range: $65,000.00 To $70,000.00 Annually

Position Summary

The Junior Estimator supports the pre-construction team in developing accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial construction projects. Working under the guidance of senior estimating professionals, this role assists with quantity takeoffs, subcontractor solicitation, bid analysis, budgeting, and proposal preparation for projects including office buildings, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, retail developments, industrial facilities, and mixed-use projects.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to develop a career in commercial construction estimating and preconstruction services.

Key Responsibilities

• Compile, Review, and Distribute Construction Documents for estimating to Subcontractors
• Actively communicate with subcontractors on bid questions or issues. Determine if Subcontractors are bidding throughout the bid process
• Assist in preparing conceptual, schematic, design development, GMP estimates for commercial construction projects.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from construction drawings, specifications, and BIM models.
• Review plans, specifications, addenda, and other project documents to identify scope requirements and potential risks.
• Solicit, collect, and organize subcontractor and supplier pricing.
• Assist with bid leveling and comparative analysis of subcontractor proposals.
• Support the development of project budgets and cost studies.
• Maintain and update historical cost information and estimating databases.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project walkthroughs.
• Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, architects, engineers, and owners during the preconstruction process.
• Assist in preparing scopes of work, procurement packages, and bid invitations.
• Support value engineering and constructability review efforts.
• Prepare and organize estimate summaries, proposal documents, and project turnover materials.
• Maintain accurate estimating files and documentation.
• Stay current with market trends, labor rates, material costs, and industry best practices.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Building Construction, Architecture, or a related field preferred.
• Relevant internships or co-op experience in commercial construction is highly desirable.

Experience

• 0-3 years of experience in estimating, project engineering, field operations, or construction management.
• Internship experience with a commercial general contractor preferred.

Technical Skills

• Ability to read and interpret commercial construction drawings and specifications.
• Understanding of construction means, methods, materials, and systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Experience with MS Project, Bluebeam, OnScreen Takeoff, PlanSwift, BuildingConnected, Procore, Sage Estimating, Destini Estimator, or similar software is preferred.
• Familiarity with quantity takeoff procedures and cost estimating principles.
• Familiarity with Design-Build project/concept

Core Competencies

• Strong attention to detail
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Time management and organizational abilities
• Effective written and verbal communication
• Team-oriented mindset
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Professionalism and adaptability
• Desire to learn and develop within the construction industry
• Strong desire for professional growth and advancement within the organization.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to travel periodically to project sites and pre-bid meetings.
• Ability to navigate active construction sites while adhering to safety requirements.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.

What Success Looks Like

• Assist Senior Estimators and other team members for a successful estimate/proposal
• Consistently produce accurate and timely quantity takeoffs.
• Develop strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers.
• Learn commercial construction systems and pricing methodologies.
• Contribute to winning projects through organized and reliable estimating support.
• Progress toward independently managing portions of estimates and budgets.