Planning and Estimator

Job Summary The Estimator is responsible for leading the preconstruction budgeting process from conceptual design through final construction pricing. This role ensures homeowners and the design team have accurate, reliable cost information to make informed decisions, identify risks early, and move projects into construction with confidence. Success in this role is measured by the accuracy of budgets, the completeness of project scope, the quality of subcontractor pricing, and the seamless transfer of information to the production team. The Estimator serves as a critical bridge between design and construction, helping ensure projects are financially viable, competitively priced, and fully prepared for successful execution.

Develop accurate conceptual, schematic, and final construction budgets that align with the evolving design and project goals.

Estimates are delivered on schedule and support project milestones.

Design Gap Identification & Risk Mitigation Scope gaps are identified and resolved prior to contract execution.

Potential budget overruns, scheduling conflicts, and field issues are proactively addressed.

Design and production teams receive timely feedback that improves project readiness.

Projects enter production with a clear understanding of risks and mitigation strategies.

Trade Scoping & Bid Leveling Subcontractor bids are complete, competitive, and aligned with project requirements.

Project teams receive reliable pricing that supports profitable project delivery.

Historical Cost Data, Pricing Accuracy & Competitiveness Cost databases remain current and reflect market conditions.

Lessons learned from completed projects are incorporated into future estimates.

Leadership can confidently rely on estimating data for strategic planning and forecasting.

Preconstruction Handoff Quality Project managers and field teams receive complete scopes, budgets, assumptions, and trade partner information.

Minimal clarification is required after project turnover.

Production teams report high confidence in handoff quality.

Project startup is efficient and organized.

Develop detailed quantity takeoffs and cost analyses.

Ensure estimates reflect project buildability and construction realities.

Conduct site visits and field investigations as needed.

Identify potential construction challenges before projects enter production.

Quality Assurance Ensure estimates comply with company standards and procedures.

Maintain accurate documentation and project records.

Verify all pricing assumptions and scope inclusions.

Leadership & Professional Development Stay current with construction methods, materials, pricing trends, and building codes.

Mentor junior estimators and preconstruction staff.

Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred.

Demonstrated success in preconstruction planning and budget development.

Excellent budgeting, cost analysis, and quantity takeoff capabilities.

Ability to identify constructability concerns and project risks.

Proficiency with Bluebeam, Microsoft Office, Buildertrend, and estimating software.

Knowledge of California residential building codes and permitting requirements.

Ability to walk active job sites safely.

Ability to access attics, crawl spaces, and other existing conditions when evaluating project feasibility.