Lead Estimator

Job Description

Position Summary

The Lead Estimator will be responsible for coordinating and delivering total project estimates across multiple phases of design and construction in support of Johnson & Johnson’s capital program. This role partners closely with project management, project controls, cost management, design teams, and construction partners to develop accurate, well-supported estimates that enable informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

The ideal candidate brings deep estimating expertise, strong market knowledge, and experience producing defensible estimates in complex, regulated construction environments such as life sciences, industrial, healthcare, or large commercial capital projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and lead the development of total project estimates across conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction phases

• Prepare detailed line-item cost estimates, including labor, materials, equipment, and general conditions

• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop bottom-up estimates aligned with project scope and execution strategy

• Provide benchmark data and market intelligence to support project estimates and cost planning

• Analyze design documents, specifications, and project assumptions to identify key cost drivers, risks, and opportunities

• Support estimate updates throughout the project lifecycle to align scope, schedule, and budget

• Collaborate with project management, project controls, and cost management teams on budgeting, forecasting, and cost reporting

• Support value engineering and cost optimization efforts with design and construction partners

• Review and evaluate contractor bids, subcontractor proposals, and third-party estimates

• Maintain and contribute to historical cost data, benchmarks, and estimating databases

• Prepare estimate narratives, backup documentation, and presentation materials suitable for client and executive review

• Participate in client and internal meetings to clearly explain estimate development, assumptions, variances, and recommendations

• Support proposal and pursuit efforts by providing estimating expertise and cost input as required

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to View email address on click.appcast.io learn more about how we collect, keep, and process your private information, please review Insight Global's Workforce Privacy Policy:

Skills and Requirements

Required Qualifications (Must Have)

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Architecture, or a related field

• Minimum 15 years of experience in construction cost estimating or related capital project cost roles

• Proven experience coordinating estimates across multiple project phases

• Strong understanding of construction cost components, including labor, materials, equipment, and general conditions

• Demonstrated experience developing detailed, defensible estimates for complex capital projects

• Experience using industry-standard cost data and benchmarks (e.g., MCAA, NECA, or equivalent)

• Proficiency in spreadsheet-based estimating and cost modeling

• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy

Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly explain cost information to senior stakeholders