Junior Estimator

Job Description

Junior Estimator

Baker Water Cincinnati, OH Full-Time Onsite

Build Winning Projects Before Construction Even Starts

Baker Water is seeking a motivated and organized Construction Junior Estimator to support our estimating and preconstruction teams throughout the bid process - from prequalification and subcontractor coordination through proposal development and post-award transition into accounting systems.

This role is critical to maintaining the flow of information during the bid process and ensuring all prequalification and bidding materials are complete, timely, and accurate. If you thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and enjoy being the organizational backbone of complex pursuits, we'd love to connect.

Why Baker Water?

Baker Construction is a nationally respected builder delivering complex, high-impact projects across five divisions: industrial, industrial distribution, structural, restoration, and water and wastewater infrastructure. At Baker, you'll find more than job security and competitive pay. You'll have ownership in your work, develop new skills, earn valuable credentials, and advance on your terms. Guided by our core values of People, Honor, and Grit, we invest in individuals who take pride in their work, follow through on commitments, and are driven to achieve more. If you're looking for a place where your effort matters, your growth is supported, and your career can go as far as you want it to go, you'll find it at Baker.

What You'll Do

Pre-Qualifications & Subcontractor Onboarding

• Prepare and submit prequalification packages for clients, general contractors, and public agencies
• Maintain internal library of current prequalification documentation (licenses, financials, safety records, insurance certificates, etc.)
• Track expiration dates and renewals for critical documents
• Assist with subcontractor prequalification, ensuring vendor compliance and documentation is current

Bid Invitations & Subcontractor/Vendor Coordination

• Create and distribute bid invitations through platforms such as SmartBid
• Maintain and update the subcontractor database and bid list
• Track subcontractor/vendor interest and follow up to maximize coverage across bid trades
• Monitor bid deadlines and respond to RFIs, clarifications, and addenda distribution
• Incorporate addenda into bid specifications and drawings
• Distribute incoming bids and proposals when required

Bid Forms & Proposal Support

• Prepare bid forms, cover letters, and proposal packages in coordination with estimators, project managers, and business development team members
• Format and proofread estimates and proposals for accuracy and professionalism
• Assist with cost tracking sheets and scope sheets during bid day preparation (as requested)
• Log and organize all bid submissions for historical tracking
• Solicit and organize content (photos, resumes, project narratives) for bid packets and proposals
• Review proposal content for compliance with RFP requirements
• Support uploads of electronic bids and proposals

Project Pipeline & Reporting

• Maintain and update the project pipeline and bid calendar
• Assist in creating and distributing weekly/monthly bid status reports
• Enter and manage project details in CRM, estimating, or tracking systems
• Assist with gathering competitor intelligence prior to bids
• Maintain updated competitor analysis in CRM with backlog and market information

General Administrative Support

• Download plans and specs into electronic estimate folders
• Organize plan rooms, spec files, and drawing sets for review
• Coordinate internal bid meetings and document action items
• Maintain internal bid calendar with deadlines, reviews, and client meetings
• Support printing, filing, digital storage, and records maintenance
• Communicate with suppliers for pricing when needed
• Track and archive bid result feedback and format for data analysis
• Manage transition of estimates to accounting systems after award, with support from estimators and the Director of Estimating

What You Bring

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, accounting or related field from an accredited college or university; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 1-3 years of experience in construction estimating, administration, or preconstruction support

Skills & Competencies

• Working knowledge of the construction bidding process
• Familiarity with estimating and bid management tools
• Strong Microsoft Office skills (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Strong organization and time management skills
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines with high attention to detail

Preferred

• Experience with On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, or ProEst
• Understanding of construction drawings and specifications
• Experience in private and public sector projects

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based with occasional visits to job sites or industry events.
• Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• May require extended hours during peak bid periods.

Why Join Baker Water?

• Stable, growing national contractor with a strong infrastructure backlog
• Direct exposure to major pursuits and preconstruction leadership
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Uncapped referral bonus program
• Company-paid life insurance and more

Baker is an EOE Disability/Veterans Employer and a member of the drugfree work place.