Chief Estimator - Construction

Celebrating 85 Years of Building With Purpose At Absher Construction, we’re proud to celebrate over 85 years as one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected general contractors. As a 100% employee‑owned company, we believe our people are our greatest asset and we invest in them like it! From fully paid medical premiums for employees, to a generous PTO policy, 401(k) and ESOP retirement benefits, we offer a total rewards package that reflects the pride and ownership we bring to every project.

As Chief Estimator at Absher, you’ll lead our estimating team and help shape how we pursue and price work across the company. You’ll oversee estimating strategy and execution across hard bid, negotiated, and GC/CM projects while ensuring our estimates are accurate, competitive, and grounded in current market conditions.

You’ll work closely with Preconstruction, Operations, Business Development, and field teams to make informed decisions early and set projects up for successful execution.

What You’ll Do Lead, mentor, and develop Absher’s estimating team while establishing clear expectations for quality, accuracy, and consistency

Lead detailed pricing, estimate reviews, bid strategy, risk evaluation, and final bid‑day execution

Evaluate project opportunities and provide estimating insight into bid feasibility, market conditions, labor and material costs, and project risk

Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors and vendors to support competitive, reliable bid coverage

Ensure estimating standards, tools, software, and processes are consistently applied and continuously improved

Partner with Preconstruction, Operations, and field teams to communicate estimating assumptions, cost strategies, and project risks through a strong handoff process

Stay connected to active projects and use lessons learned and field feedback to strengthen future estimates

Why You’ll Be Successful You’re an experienced estimator who can move comfortably between the details of an estimate and the bigger picture of leading a department. You bring sound judgment to high‑pressure decisions, know when to challenge an assumption, and understand how market conditions and strong subcontractor relationships influence successful pursuits.

You set clear expectations, develop the people around you, and build strong partnerships across estimating, preconstruction, operations, and the field.

What You Bring 10+ years of estimating and/or preconstruction experience in the commercial construction industry

Strong technical knowledge of conceptual and detailed estimating, pricing, scope development, and cost analysis

Experience with multiple delivery methods including negotiated, GC/CM, and hard bid

Established relationships and credibility within the construction and subcontractor community

Strong understanding of construction markets, labor and material costs, and competitive bid environments

Ability to communicate and present effectively with clients, design partners, subcontractors, and internal teams

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field

Proficiency with estimating technology and Microsoft Office tools

Work Environment This role is primarily based in an office setting with occasional jobsite exposure. The position involves regular computer work, along with walking, standing, and light lifting (up to 25 lbs).

Absher is a proud Federal Contractor.

Salary offers are typically made between the entry and midpoint of the range and are based on factors such as experience, education, and internal equity.

Background checks may include verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and references. For positions with access to company financial accounts or credit card programs, a credit history check may also be conducted.

All screening is conducted in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and applicable state and local laws. Absher’s Commitment: Our Pledge to EEOC At Absher, we are committed to building a culture where everyone can thrive. No employee or applicant will face discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class.