Estimator

Role Description

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, timely estimates in support of company revenue, margin, and backlog objectives. This role focuses on disciplined estimating execution, margin awareness, and consistent application of estimating standards and procedures. The Estimator operates independently on assigned work while receiving guidance, review, and escalation support from Senior Estimators and Estimating Team Leads. Success in this role contributes to margin performance, estimating quality, pursuit effectiveness, and strong internal and external relationships.

Key Objectives

• Produce accurate, complete, and competitive estimates.
• Achieve assigned individual gross margin goals through disciplined estimating practices.
• Apply estimating standards, procedures, and best practices consistently.
• Support business development and pursuit efforts through estimating execution.
• Identify scope, pricing, and risk considerations and escalate as appropriate.
• Demonstrate continuous professional growth by expanding estimating knowledge, judgment, and independence.
• Build credibility through reliable estimating execution and professional engagement.

Essential Job Functions

• Estimating Production & Execution
  • Prepare estimates in accordance with company standards and procedures.
  • Review drawings, specifications, and scopes of work to identify quantities, assumptions, and exclusions.
  • Develop estimates using approved tools, systems, and templates.
  • Participate in bid strategy discussions and scope reviews as required.
• Risk Awareness & Escalation
  • Identify scope gaps, assumptions, exclusions, and estimating risks.
  • Communicate risks and concerns to Senior Estimators or Team Leads in a timely manner.
  • Support the documentation of assumptions, clarifications, and exclusions.
  • Apply guidance related to contractual terms and risk considerations.
• Business Development & Pursuit Support
  • Support pursuit and proposal efforts through accurate, timely estimating input.
  • Participate in pursuit-related meetings, scope discussions, and proposal development as requested.
  • Contribute estimating insight that supports competitiveness and win probability.
  • Reinforce client and partner confidence through professionalism, responsiveness, and consistency.
  • Support and reinforce relationships established by Senior Estimators and Estimating Team Leads.
• Quality, Consistency & Process Adherence
  • Maintain accuracy, completeness, and consistency in estimate preparation.
  • Participate in estimate reviews and incorporate feedback.
  • Follow established estimating processes, documentation requirements, and quality controls.
  • Support continuous improvement through lessons learned and feedback.
• Relationship & Communication Responsibilities
  • Build effective working relationships with estimating peers, operations, sales, vendors, and internal partners.
  • Communicate clearly and professionally to support scope clarity and alignment.
  • Respond promptly to internal requests and follow-up questions.
  • Represent the estimating team professionally in day-to-day interactions.
  • Escalate issues appropriately to support team coordination and success.
• Individual Estimating Responsibilities
  • Own assigned estimates and related deliverables.
  • Manage workload, priorities, and deadlines effectively.
  • Maintain visibility of assigned bids and upcoming pursuits.
  • Participate in internal coordination, scope reviews, and handoff meetings.
  • Support awarded project transitions as required.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Financial Performance: Achievement of assigned gross margin goals, demonstrated margin awareness, and alignment with approved bid strategies.
• Production: Weekly proposal output, ability to manage workload while maintaining quality, and visibility of assigned bid backlog.
• Quality & Accuracy: Estimate accuracy, reduction in errors/rework, and completeness of estimate documentation.
• Business Development: Effectiveness in supporting pursuit efforts, professional communication, and contribution to positive relationships.
• Professional Growth: Improvement in estimating judgment, willingness to seek feedback, and progress toward readiness for increased responsibility.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of experience in commercial construction estimating or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated understanding of estimating processes and procedures.
• Experience working with estimating software and takeoff tools.

Requirements

• Working knowledge of estimating methods, scope development, margin drivers, and risk considerations.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to identify issues and escalate appropriately.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Commitment to professional development and continuous improvement.
• Alignment with company values and professional standards.

Schedule & Work Arrangement

• Employment Type: Contractor.
• Hours: Full-time; availability during US business hours required.
• Flexibility: Occasional availability outside standard hours may be required to meet bid deadlines or support project needs across time zones.
• Work Arrangement Status: Independent contractor; no company-provided equipment.
• Benefits: This role does not include company-provided benefits or paid leave.
• Taxes: Contractor is responsible for their own taxes and statutory contributions.
• Payroll: Payments issued according to the company’s standard contractor payroll schedule.