Sales / Estimator for Custom Residential, New Construction & Modular

Job Description

Job Description

About The Role

Burton Design & Construction, LLC is seeking a highly capable Sales / Estimator to lead the front-end of our project lifecycle—from initial client engagement through contract execution.

Our projects are primarily high-end residential builds requiring a high level of detail, coordination, and client engagement. This role serves as the first impression of our company and is responsible for building trust with prospective clients, developing accurate and well-structured project estimates, and guiding projects from concept through signed agreement.

The ideal candidate brings a blend of construction knowledge, client-facing professionalism, and financial discipline , with the ability to translate design intent into clear, accurate, and well-communicated project scopes and budgets. This role plays a critical part in driving company revenue, project quality, and overall client experience.

What You’ll Do

In this role, you will own the full preconstruction lifecycle—from first client interaction through executed contract—serving as both a trusted advisor and a disciplined estimator. You will lead client engagement, qualify opportunities, develop detailed project estimates, and drive the conversion of opportunities into signed projects. Success in this role requires the ability to balance relationship-building with financial accuracy, ensuring projects are both won and positioned for successful execution.

Key Responsibilities

Client Engagement & Sales Leadership

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all inbound and outbound project inquiries
• Lead initial client consultations, establishing trust and aligning on project vision, scope, and expectations
• Qualify opportunities to ensure alignment with Burton Design & Construction, LLC project profile and standards
• Maintain proactive communication with prospective clients throughout the preconstruction process
• Present proposals, budgets, and contracts in a clear, professional, and client-centric manner
• Lead contract discussions and support successful project conversion

Preconstruction & Estimating

• Own the full estimating lifecycle
• Develop detailed, accurate project estimates based on plans, specifications, and conceptual information
• Perform quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and pricing validation
• Lead value engineering efforts to align scope with client budgets while maintaining design intent
• Build and maintain conceptual project schedules to support estimating and client expectations
• Continuously refine estimating accuracy through historical data and post-project feedback

Subcontractor & Partner Coordination

• Solicit and manage subcontractor and vendor bids
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key trade partners
• Level and compare bids to ensure completeness, competitiveness, and alignment with scope
• Coordinate with architects and designers to clarify plans, specifications, and constructability

Pipeline & Relationship Management

• Develop and maintain relationships with architects, designers, and referral partners
• Actively cultivate new sources of work aligned with Burton Design & Construction, LLC’s market
• Track and manage pipeline activity, ensuring timely follow-up and conversion efforts
• Provide regular updates on lead status, bid progress, and conversion metrics

Process & Operational Discipline

• Ensure all estimates, proposals, and contracts meet company standards for accuracy and presentation
• Maintain organized documentation of scopes, assumptions, and exclusions
• Meet or exceed all deadlines for estimates and client deliverables
• Continuously improve estimating processes, tools, and templates

Core Competencies

• Client-first mindset with a focus on delivering a high-end experience
• High level of ownership and accountability
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Proactive communicator who follows through consistently
• Solution-oriented with the ability to navigate ambiguity
• Collaborative team player aligned with company values
• Driven to continuously improve processes and outcomes

Position Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in residential construction estimating, project management, or preconstruction
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and sequencing (high-end residential preferred)
• Proven ability to develop detailed and accurate project estimates
• Proficiency with estimating and construction management software (e.g., Buildertrend, Excel, takeoff tools)
• Experience working directly with clients, architects, and designers
• Strong financial acumen and cost control mindset
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office 365 (Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams)
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
• Must have reliable transportation as traveling locally to client sites will be required.

What Success Looks Like

• High conversion rate from qualified leads to signed contracts
• Accurate estimates with minimal variance during project execution
• Strong relationships with clients, architects, and trade partners
• Consistent, professional client experience from first interaction through contract
• Well-managed pipeline with clear visibility and predictability

Burton Design & Construction, LLC Core Behaviors:

• Deliver legendary customer service
• Practice blameless problem-solving
• Find a way to get it done
• Get clear on expectations
• Ask questions as needed
• Celebrate success
• Follow up on everything
• Deliver results
• Be relentless about improvement
• Insist on high standards
• Think team – OneBDC
• Treasure, protect, and promote our reputation

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation:

• Competitive compensation package based on experience, including performance-based incentives.

BDC provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 401(k) plan
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• A collaborative, supportive, and growth-oriented culture

Who You Report To

• You will report to the Operations and Business Development Team

Schedule, Location & Travel Expectations

• Primary office: Malibu, CA
• This position requires client visits as well as in office work. When not with clients, we are a work in the office culture and value team members who come to the office, work together, collaborate and learn from each other. The core hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
• Travel may occasionally be required between BDC locations

Why Join BDC?

Top candidates want more than a job—they want purpose, growth, and impact . We are growing and looking for exceptional individuals to join an already strong and collaborative team.

At BDC, you will:

• Be a key contributor in a respected and expanding construction firm
• Work directly with leadership and high-performing teams
• Lead exciting residential builds that you can take pride in
• Influence process improvements and company growth
• Be part of a culture that values integrity, teamwork, craftsmanship, and customer care
• Company outings and celebrations