Project Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

The Special Project Estimator is primarily responsible for preparing complete, competitive, and well-supported estimates for commercial construction projects. The role manages assigned bids and trade packages from initial document review through bid submission, scope leveling, subcontractor selection, buyout, and turnover to Operations. After award, the employee provides limited project management support focused on subcontractor and vendor administration, change pricing, commitments, budget tracking, and forecast awareness.

Essential Functions:

• Own assigned estimates and trade packages from bid setup through submission, scope leveling, recommendation, and turnover.
• Build bidder lists, solicit coverage, communicate with subcontractors and vendors, and maintain accurate bid status.
• Complete quantity takeoffs, detailed scope sheets, estimate worksheets, clarifications, exclusions, and bid comparisons.
• Review subcontractor and vendor proposals for completeness, qualifications, schedule, and scope gaps.
• Participate in bid reviews, present recommendations, and clearly explain pricing, risk, and selection rationale.
• Assist with subcontractor and vendor buyout, including final scope alignment, commitments, and handoff to Operations.
• After award, support assigned projects with subcontractor/vendor administration, change pricing, commitment tracking, and cost management.
• Maintain effective relationships with clients, subcontractors, vendors, and JEM Group project teams.

Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Commercial construction experience in estimating, preconstruction, project engineering, or project management.
• Working knowledge of general construction, design-build, construction management, and AIA contract documents.
• Knowledge of the Central Pennsylvania subcontractor and vendor market preferred.

Technical Skills:

• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, addenda, and contract requirements.
• Ability to perform quantity takeoffs, develop scopes of work, level bids, identify gaps, and assemble final estimates.
• Proficient in bid solicitation and estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Working knowledge of project management software such as Procore or an equivalent platform.
• Understands project budgets, commitments, change management, cost coding, and forecast-to-complete concepts.

Core Competencies:

• Highly organized and able to manage multiple bids, trade packages, and deadlines simultaneously.
• Clear, professional communicator with owners, designers, subcontractors, vendors, and internal teams.
• Persistent in subcontractor outreach and disciplined in documenting assumptions, exclusions, risks, and scope decisions.
• Proactive problem-solver who identifies missing information early and drives issues toward resolution.
• Commercially aware, detail-oriented, and committed to protecting margin without compromising accuracy or relationships.

Benefits:

401(k) + matching
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Paid time off + Paid Holidays
Health savings account + employer contribution
Disability insurance
Life insurance
Employee Referral Bonus Program

Who we are:

Building to Improve Lives

Since 2003, JEM Group has been building with purpose. As a woman - owned construction firm, we are known for our hands-on approach and our commitment to open, honest partnerships with clients, collaborators, and the communities we serve.

Our greatest strength is our people. JEM’s diverse and experienced team works well together, leading every project with care, accountability, and pride in our work — from early planning through final delivery. We don’t believe in one-size-fits all solutions. Instead, we listen closely, plan ahead, and apply creativity to tailor each project, even the most technically complex, to deliver meaningful, lasting results.

As we look ahead, we’re focused on growing thoughtfully and supporting the people who make our work possible. We work hard, take pride in what we build, and we enjoy doing it together.

If you’re looking for a place where collaboration is real, integrity matters, and there’s room to laugh along the way, JEM Group is a place to build your career.