Senior Estimator

Senior Estimator

As a Senior Estimator, you are responsible for developing accurate and reliable estimates across all phases of preconstruction—from initial concept through design development. You bring experience with GMP, CMAR, and negotiated work, and understand how to build and manage budgets in a collaborative, client-focused environment.

You work closely with subcontractors to secure competitive pricing and support the development of comprehensive project budgets and GMPs. You maintain strong communication with Operations to align on subcontractor selection and ensure a seamless transition from preconstruction to construction.

You are a proactive partner—able to communicate cost drivers, identify risks and opportunities, and support informed decision-making that drive successful project outcomes.

What You'll Do

• Lead the development of estimates across all phases of preconstruction, from conceptual design through construction documents, ensuring alignment with project goals and client expectations
• Prepare detailed estimates, including quantity takeoffs, bid-day analysis, and subcontractor/vendor pricing, to support accurate and competitive project budgets
• Review all plans, specifications, addenda, and bid documents to ensure completeness, accuracy, and risk identification prior to submission
• Manage bid-day activities, including leveling, scope alignment, and final pricing coordination
• Develop scopes of work for subcontract and purchase order agreements to ensure clarity and consistency across project teams
• Partner with Preconstruction and Operations teams on negotiated and CMAR projects, contributing to cost planning, design-phase budgeting, and decision-making
• Lead or support the development of milestone budgets and Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) proposals, ensuring alignment with company financial objectives
• Collaborate closely with subcontractors and vendors to obtain competitive pricing, support negotiations, and maintain strong industry relationships
• Participate in client-facing activities, including presentations, interviews, and milestone budget reviews with owners and design partners
• Support proposal development efforts, including research, pricing strategies, and written content as needed
• Conduct site visits, attend pre-bid meetings, and support ongoing project reviews to validate assumptions and improve future estimating accuracy
• Communicate effectively with project teams, ensuring alignment and a smooth transition from preconstruction to construction
• Continuously evaluate estimating processes, tools, and workflows, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, consistency, and overall team performance
• Stay current on estimating technology, market conditions, and industry best practices
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior estimators, supporting their development and consistency in estimating practices
• Perform other related duties that support the mission and long-term success of the organization
• Safety is our first priority. Everyone is responsible for ensuring we all go home safely at the end of each workday

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field preferred
• 7+ years of construction estimating experience, with demonstrated progression in responsibility
• Proven experience with GMP, CMAR, and negotiated delivery methods
• Strong understanding of preconstruction processes from conceptual estimating through construction documents
• Experience developing and managing budgets throughout the design phase, including cost modeling and value engineering
• Strong knowledge of construction means and methods, materials, and current market conditions
• Proficiency in estimating software and tools (e.g., Togal AI, Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Excel), including advanced Excel capabilities
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to clearly convey cost information to internal teams and clients
• Strong negotiation skills and experience working with subcontractors and vendors
• Ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer, attending meetings, or traveling.
• Ability to stand, walk, and navigate active construction sites, sometimes over uneven terrain or in varying weather conditions.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• Ability to drive or travel by air for client meetings, project visits, conferences, and industry events.