Construction Estimator

Estimator Position

Our client is a boutique, full-service real estate advisory and construction management firm supporting both private developers and public agencies across Southern California. Known for their hands-on, owner's representative approach, they guide projects from early planning and entitlement through design, procurement, and construction readiness. Their team brings a deep bench of technical expertise and industry credentials, supporting the successful delivery of complex capital improvement projects—particularly within public-sector environments such as K-12 school districts and higher education institutions. They are currently seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Estimator to support ongoing projects within a large, bond-funded school district program. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career construction professional to gain exposure to complex public works projects while working alongside experienced project and cost management leaders.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Prepare independent cost estimates at various stages of design (conceptual through construction documents) to support project planning and decision-making.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, RFIs, and related documentation to develop accurate and defensible cost projections.
• Assist in evaluating contractor bids and proposals, identifying scope gaps, cost discrepancies, and areas of risk.
• Support reconciliation efforts between independent estimates and contractor pricing to help establish negotiating positions.
• Assist in the development and pricing of change orders, including defining scope based on RFIs/RFCs and project updates.
• Participate in claim analysis by reviewing contractor requests and preparing supporting cost evaluations.
• Conduct ongoing research related to local labor, material, and market cost trends to maintain current and accurate pricing data.
• Collaborate with project managers, owner's representatives, and stakeholders to ensure alignment on project budgets and cost expectations.
• Support procurement efforts by assisting in bid reviews, leveling, and documentation.
• Maintain organized estimating documentation and contribute to cost databases and historical benchmarking efforts.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2+ years of professional experience in construction estimating, preferably within public works or educational facility projects.
• Working knowledge of local Southern California construction costs, including labor and materials.
• Experience preparing detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates from plans and specifications.
• Familiarity with change order estimating and the ability to develop scope based on RFIs/RFCs.
• Ability to compare independent estimates with contractor proposals and identify variances.
• Exposure to claim analysis and contractor proposal review is preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage tasks and priorities in a deadline-driven setting.
• Proficiency in Excel and estimating tools such as Bluebeam, OST, or similar platforms is a plus.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation aligned with experience
• 80 hours of vacation time annually
• 40 hours of sick time
• 13 paid holidays
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage (employer contribution up to $500/month)
• 401(k) with 100% employer match up to 4% (immediate vesting)
• Annual professional development allowance (up to $1,000)
• Opportunity to participate in industry events and continued career growth