Multifamily Construction Estimator

Position Summary

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and comprehensive bids and estimates for ELITE Construction’s multifamily construction projects, including ground-up new construction and renovations, typically ranging from $2M - $30M. The Estimator will support the preconstruction process from initial project review through subcontractor solicitation, scope development, estimating, value engineering, and project turnover to the Operations team.

This position will conduct detailed quantity take-offs, analyze construction plans and specifications, research project and historical cost data, and collaborate with subcontractors and vendors to develop competitive and accurate pricing. The Estimator will work closely with ELITE’s Preconstruction, Project Management, and Operations teams to identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, cost-saving opportunities, and project risks.

The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of multifamily construction and the ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy and organization. Through effective communication and collaboration with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, vendors, and internal teams, the Estimator will help ensure each project is thoroughly evaluated and positioned for successful execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Actively support ELITE’s values at all times.
• Professionally represent ELITE with clients, subcontractors, architects, engineers, consultants, and other project stakeholders.
• Review construction plans, specifications, MEP drawings, and other project documents to develop accurate estimates.
• Perform detailed quantity take-offs and develop pricing for assigned projects.
• Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, and final estimates as required.
• Verify project scope, costs, and timelines while identifying potential gaps, exclusions, and risks.
• Develop and maintain accurate scopes of work and subcontractor values in coordination with the Preconstruction and Operations teams.
• Solicit, analyze and maintain competitive bids from qualified subcontractors and vendors for assigned scopes.
• Assist with expanding and maintaining ELITE’s subcontractor database and developing strong trade partner relationships across its markets.
• Review, level, and analyze subcontractor and vendor proposals to ensure complete scope coverage and competitive pricing.
• Identify discrepancies, scope gaps, and overlaps between subcontractor bids and work with the appropriate parties to resolve them.
• Assist with developing and evaluating general conditions, project-specific costs, and other indirect costs.
• Research historical cost data, current market conditions, labor costs, material pricing, and other factors that may impact project budgets.
• Identify and evaluate value engineering opportunities, alternative materials, and other cost-saving options while maintaining project quality and design intent.
• Assist with options studies and provide cost comparisons to support project and client decision-making.
• Participate in constructability reviews and identify potential challenges or risks before construction begins.
• Assist with developing project schedules, construction sequencing, and milestone planning during preconstruction.
• Assist with preconstruction documentation, including ITBs, SOWs, SOVs, RFIs, COs, submittals, bid tabs, and other project documentation.
• Collaborate with Project Managers and Operations leadership to review and refine estimates prior to submission and project award.
• Assist with the preparation and delivery of accurate, well-structured proposals within designated timelines and approval thresholds.
• Maintain organized records of project estimates, bid activity, subcontractor outreach, pricing, and project status.
• Clearly communicate estimating assumptions, exclusions, risks, and opportunities to internal and external stakeholders.
• Support a smooth transition from preconstruction to project execution by clearly communicating project scope, pricing assumptions, subcontractor commitments, and outstanding items to the Operations team.
• Quickly address estimating-related questions and concerns and work collaboratively to resolve discrepancies.
• Participate in client, subcontractor, and internal preconstruction meetings as needed.
• Engage in company and industry training to stay informed of best practices, market trends, and evolving construction methodologies.

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills with a high level of attention to detail.
• Strong understanding of multifamily construction, including ground-up construction and renovations.
• Thorough understanding of construction plans, specifications, MEP drawings, scopes of work, and constructability.
• Demonstrated ability to perform detailed quantity take-offs and develop accurate project estimates.
• Understanding of subcontractor procurement, bid solicitation, scope development, and bid leveling.
• Ability to identify scope gaps, cost risks, and opportunities for value engineering.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple estimates, deadlines, and priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with subcontractors, vendors, clients, architects, engineers, and internal team members.
• Proactive approach to identifying potential issues and communicating risks and recommended solutions.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative team environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Experience with construction estimating and project management technology.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new construction technology and processes.
• Experience with Revit, Navisworks, Microsoft Project, SketchUp, or other construction-related software is a plus.
• Familiarity with CMAR, Design-Build, or other alternative project delivery methods is a plus.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in estimating, preconstruction, or construction operations.

• Multifamily construction experience strongly preferred.
• Competitive bid experience strongly preferred.
• Network of subcontractors, specifically renovation subcontractors preferred.
• Experience with a general contractor, subcontractor, engineering firm, architecture firm, or other construction-related organization preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Engineering, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• Ability to review and understand construction drawings, specifications, and project requirements.
• Basic to intermediate understanding of construction project sequencing and scheduling.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy while working under deadlines.
• Must work well in a team environment and demonstrate a commitment to client service.
• Willingness to work onsite/in the office 5 days per week.
• A valid Driver’s License
  
   

Commitment to jobsite safety, cleanliness, accuracy, confidentiality and professional integrity is a non-negotiable expectation of every ELITE Construction team member.