Junior Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Opportunity to build a career in the Construction field

Position Overview

JGM is seeking a motivated early-career professional with 0–3 years of experience to join our growing team in our Downingtown, PA office. This role is designed for someone who wants to develop a long-term career in construction estimating while gaining hands-on experience across structural steel fabrication, erection, equipment setting, and piping.

You’ll work directly with senior estimators to learn JGM’s estimating approach, build technical knowledge, and take on increasing responsibility as your skills develop.

The Ideal Candidate

We’re looking for someone with a construction management, engineering, or construction-related trade/technical education, ideally paired with an internship or co-op with a general contractor, industrial contractor, or similar organization.

Direct industrial experience is not required. Candidates from commercial or general construction backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing detailed cost estimates for industrial construction projects, from concept through final proposal, under the guidance of senior estimators.
• Learn to analyze project documentation (drawings, specifications, RFIs) to identify scope, risks, and value engineering opportunities.
• Perform quantity take-offs and pricing for structural steel fabrication, erection, equipment setting, and piping.
• Support the solicitation, evaluation, and negotiation of subcontractor and vendor pricing across trades, including concrete/civil, electrical, and specialty subcontractors.
• Collaborate with project management, engineering, and procurement teams to ensure accurate scoping and budgeting.
• Help prepare comprehensive bid proposals, and, as skills develop, help present estimates to leadership and clients.
• Contribute ideas on cost-saving measures and alternative solutions to meet client needs.
• Build working knowledge of industry trends, material costs, and construction best practices.
• Progress toward independently owning estimates and mentoring newer team members as tenure and skill grow.

Qualifications

• 0-3 years of experience in construction estimating, project engineering, or a related role - including relevant internship or co-op experience.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil/structural engineering, or a related field from a college, university, or trade/technical school.
• Relevant internship or co-op experience with a general contractor, industrial contractor, or similar is strongly preferred.
• Strong analytical, math, and organizational skills.
• Some ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and bid documents - or a strong aptitude and willingness to learn quickly.
• Comfortable with Microsoft Office Suite;(Word, Excel, Outlook PowerPoint)
• Clear, professional communication and a collaborative, coachable mindset.
• Genuine interest in building a long-term career at JGM and growing into a senior estimating role over time.
• Willingness to travel to job sites for site walk-throughs as needed

Preferences

• Familiarity with estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, Procore, Sage Estimating, or similar) is a plus - training will be provided.
• Open to candidates from general contracting, commercial, or industrial backgrounds, provided their education and/or internship experience is construction related.

 

Growth and Career Path

This position offers structured, hands-on training with experienced estimators and a defined path for advancement. As your technical knowledge, estimating ability, and judgment develop, you’ll take ownership of increasingly complex estimates and projects.

JGM is continuing to grow and is focused on developing future Senior Estimators and estimating leaders from within.

Benefits

JGM offers a competitive wage and benefits package:

• Medical, Vision & Dental
• PTO & Holidays
• 401(k) + Matching
• Life Insurance
• Short/Long-Term Disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• Generous Referral Program
• Training and Further Education