Estimator

Estimator

The Estimator is a critical pre-construction role responsible for producing accurate, competitive, and timely equipment bids that set projects up for success from the start. Working closely with the Sales team, Project Managers, and design consultants, the Estimator reviews project documents, develops detailed takeoffs, sources pricing from manufacturers and rep groups, and assembles complete bid packages. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, analytically sharp, and takes ownership of every number that leaves this office.

Key Responsibilities

Bid Preparation & Takeoffs

• Review construction documents, drawings, and specifications to develop accurate equipment lists and quantity takeoffs.
• Source competitive pricing from manufacturers, rep groups, and distributors.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates including equipment, freight, installation allowances, and applicable taxes.
• Assemble complete bid packages for review and submission by the Sales team or Project Manager.
• Identify scope gaps, substitution opportunities, and value engineering options.

Vendor & Rep Coordination

• Send and track quote requests to manufacturers and rep groups; follow up to ensure timely responses.
• Maintain strong working relationships with vendor contacts to obtain best pricing and lead time information.
• Evaluate and compare vendor quotes for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with specifications.
• Negotiate pricing and terms to maximize margin while staying competitive.

Proposal & Documentation

• Build and maintain estimate files in AutoQuotes and NetSuite; ensure all data is current and accurate.
• Prepare customer-facing proposals and equipment schedules in coordination with the Sales team.
• Track bid outcomes, win/loss data, and market pricing trends to inform future estimates.
• Maintain organized records of all bid documentation, correspondence, and awarded contracts.

Handoff & Project Support

• Facilitate thorough turnover of awarded projects to the Project Management team, including scope review and vendor introductions.
• Clarify specification intent and resolve scope questions during the transition from pre-construction to execution.
• Support project teams with change order pricing and scope revisions as needed.
• Participate in pre-bid walkthroughs, scope meetings, and client presentations as requested.

Qualifications

Required

• 3+ years of estimating experience in commercial foodservice equipment, commercial construction, or a related field.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and equipment schedules.
• Proficiency in AutoQuotes or comparable estimating/quoting platforms.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Clear, direct written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously and meet submission deadlines without exception.

Preferred

• Experience with NetSuite or comparable ERP systems.
• Familiarity with Procore and project management workflows.
• Exposure to casino, stadium, hospital, or large-scale venue projects.
• Relationships with commercial foodservice equipment manufacturers and rep groups.

Our Core Values — RACE

RACE is more than an acronym — it's how we show up every day for our clients, our teammates, and our partners:

• Responsiveness. In our business, a bid missed by an hour is a bid missed. Clients, GCs, and Sales depend on you to deliver accurate numbers on time, every time. If a deadline is at risk, it gets flagged the same day — not the same week. Responsiveness is the foundation of trust, and trust is the foundation of our reputation.
• Accountability. Every number you put on a page has your name on it. You own your estimates — the wins and the misses. When something goes sideways, we diagnose it honestly and fix it. We don't pass the problem and we don't wait for someone else to notice. Late flags create crises; early flags create options.
• Collaborative. The Estimator role sits at the intersection of Sales, Project Management, vendors, and clients. No one wins alone here. We share information freely, support each other across functions, and solve problems together rather than around each other. The best estimates come from people who ask good questions and communicate clearly.
• Empathy. We lead with respect for the people around us — teammates, vendors, clients, and partners alike. We take time to understand before we act, and we treat people the way we want to be treated. Empathy isn't a soft skill — it's a business skill that keeps relationships intact and teams moving.

What Success Looks Like

In the first 90 days, a successful Estimator will:

• Have a clear command of the bid pipeline and be independently producing complete estimate packages with minimal hand-holding.
• Have established working relationships with key manufacturers, rep groups, and Sales team members.
• Be fully operational in AutoQuotes and NetSuite with accurate, up-to-date records on all active bids.
• Proactively flag scope gaps, pricing risks, and deadline concerns before they become problems.

Kamran & Company is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve.