Project Estimator

Project Estimator Job Description

Estimate Preparation: Accurately prepare detailed cost estimates for construction projects, including labor, materials, and equipment.

Bid Preparation & Submission: Compile and submit bids for potential projects, ensuring they are competitive and aligned with company objectives.

Cost Analysis & Benchmarking: Analyze historical cost data to establish reliable pricing and ensure cost competitiveness.

Contract Development Support: Collaborate with the project management team and legal department during the negotiation and review of contracts to ensure accurate costing.

Risk Identification & Mitigation: Assess potential risks during the estimating phase and develop strategies to mitigate financial or schedule-related risks.

Continuous improvement: Review existing templates, structure, tools, and process flows, continually update and improve as the market conditions and team needs to adjust. Educated and mentor the internal team of your needs, process, and outcomes.

Schedule Review: Collaborate with the project management team to assess schedules and ensure that cost estimates align with project timelines.

Vendor/Subcontractor Selection: Assist in evaluating subcontractors and vendors for bids and negotiate pricing where necessary.

Value Engineering: Provide input on cost-saving opportunities through value engineering and alternative methods/materials during the pre-construction phase.

Market & Material Trends Analysis: Stay informed on market trends, pricing fluctuations, and supply chain issues that could affect project costs.

Analyze project drawings, specifications, and contract documents to develop a detailed and accurate cost estimate.

Collaborate with project managers, architects, and engineers to understand project scope and requirements.

Solicite and evaluate quotes from subcontractors and suppliers.

Prepare quantity take-offs and build cost breakdowns for various trades.

Monitor material and labor costs in the market and adjust estimates accordingly.

Review potential risks in project plans and recommend mitigation strategies to the project team.

Review and analyze previous project cost data to improve future estimates.

Assist in the development and review of project schedules to ensure estimated costs align with timelines.

Participate in project meetings to discuss cost estimates, risks, and project feasibility.

Prepare and submit bid packages, including the final cost estimate, risk assessments, and value engineering suggestions.

Collaborate with the project management team to review and revise project budgets during the negotiation phase.

Contract Development: Support the development of contracts by providing detailed cost breakdowns and ensuring alignment with project scope.

Contract Review: Review contract terms related to costs, schedules, and risk allocations to confirm alignment with the estimate

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.

5-7 years of experience in construction estimating, particularly with commercial and residential projects.

Strong proficiency in estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, Sage Estimating, ProEst, PlanSwift).

Knowledge of construction processes, materials, labor requirements, and equipment costs.

Familiarity with standard contract types (e.g., Lump Sum, GMP, Cost Plus) and their financial implications.

Analytical Mindset: Ability to break down complex projects into detailed cost estimates.

Detail-Oriented: Strong attention to detail in reviewing plans, specifications, and pricing.

Negotiation Skills: Comfortable negotiating with subcontractors and suppliers to secure the best pricing.

Communication: Ability to communicate cost-related information effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Problem Solving: Adept at identifying potential cost or schedule issues early in the process and proposing solutions.

Competitive salary and benefits package.

Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

A supportive and collaborative work environment.

The chance to contribute to meaningful and impactful construction projects.