Estimator (Construction Company)

Job Description
Job Description Position: Estimator

Position Overview
Vantage Builders is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Estimator to join our Preconstruction team. The Estimator plays a critical role in the successful planning and execution of commercial construction projects by developing accurate budgets, competitive bids, conceptual estimates, and value-driven pricing strategies.

This individual will collaborate closely with clients, architects, subcontractors, vendors, and internal project teams throughout the preconstruction process to ensure estimates are comprehensive, competitive, and aligned with project goals. The ideal candidate is analytical, proactive, collaborative, and passionate about construction, with the ability to think strategically while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.

At Vantage Builders, estimators are trusted advisors who contribute directly to project success, client relationships, operational planning, and company growth.

Key Responsibilities
Preconstruction & Estimating Leadership
Prepare detailed conceptual estimates, schematic budgets, GMPs, and competitive bids for commercial construction projects.
Analyze drawings, specifications, narratives, and other project documentation to develop complete and accurate pricing.
Participate in all phases of the preconstruction process from initial budgeting through final proposal submission.
Collaborate with Operations, Project Management, and field leadership to align estimates with project execution strategies.
Assist in developing project logistics plans, phasing approaches, and schedule considerations during preconstruction.

Subcontractor & Vendor Management

• Develop subcontractor and vendor bid strategies to ensure complete coverage and competitive pricing.
• Solicit, coordinate, and manage subcontractor/vendor pricing throughout the bidding process.
• Conduct detailed scope reviews and bid leveling to identify gaps, overlaps, exclusions, and exposures.

Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
Evaluate subcontractor capabilities, qualifications, manpower availability, and market conditions.

Quantity Takeoffs & Cost Analysis
Perform and/or manage quantity takeoffs across all CSI divisions.
Develop trade-by-trade pricing analyses using historical cost data, market trends, and project-specific conditions.
Maintain awareness of material pricing fluctuations, labor market conditions, and industry cost drivers.
Analyze alternative systems, materials, and construction methods to identify value engineering opportunities.
Prepare detailed estimate clarifications, assumptions, qualifications, and exclusions.

Client & Design Team Collaboration
Participate in client meetings, design reviews, walkthroughs, and preconstruction presentations.
Provide budgeting guidance and cost feedback during design development.
Assist clients and design teams in evaluating project scope, constructability, scheduling, and cost impacts.
Present estimates clearly and professionally to internal and external stakeholders.
Support a collaborative and solutions-oriented preconstruction process focused on delivering value to the client.

Risk Management & Strategic Planning
Identify project risks, scope gaps, constructability concerns, and escalation exposures during estimating.
Develop proactive recommendations to mitigate financial and operational risks.
Assist in evaluating procurement strategies and long-lead material considerations.
Maintain consistency with company estimating standards, procedures, and best practices.

Technology & Process Management
Utilize estimating software, spreadsheets, takeoff tools, and project management platforms to support estimating efforts.
Maintain organized bid documentation, subcontractor communications, and estimate records.
Assist in maintaining historical cost databases and benchmarking information.
Support continuous improvement initiatives related to estimating systems, workflows, and data analytics.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred.
• 3–7 years of commercial construction estimating or preconstruction experience.
• Strong understanding of commercial construction methods, materials, systems, and sequencing.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, MEP, and civil drawings and specifications.
• Experience preparing conceptual budgets, detailed estimates, and bid proposals.
• Strong knowledge of CSI divisions and trade coordination.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and estimating software platforms.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Preferred Experience
Experience in one or more of the following market sectors:
Corporate Interiors
Healthcare
Life Sciences
Retail
Institutional
Occupied Renovations
Ground-Up Commercial Construction
Experience with:
Procore
On-Screen Takeoff
Bluebeam
BuildingConnected
Sage Estimating or equivalent estimating software

Leadership Competencies
The ideal candidate demonstrates the following characteristics:

• Enjoys solving problems
• Naturally detail oriented
• Highly organized under pressure
• Strong sense of urgency and accountability

Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Collaborative and team-oriented mindset

• Strategic and proactive thinker
• Commitment to continuous learning and improvement

Why Vantage Builders
Vantage Builders is a relationship-driven commercial construction general contracting firm committed to delivering exceptional client service, high-quality workmanship, and collaborative project experiences. Our Preconstruction team plays a vital role in shaping project success from the earliest stages of development.

We foster a culture built on integrity, teamwork, accountability, and professional growth. Our employees are empowered to take ownership, contribute ideas, and advance their careers within a dynamic and supportive environment. Join a growing preconstruction team where you’ll have direct impact on real projects, help shape estimating systems and workflows, and play a key role in Vantage Builders’ continued growth.

Compensation & Benefits
Vantage Builders offers a competitive compensation package including:

• Competitive salary
• Performance-based bonuses
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development and continuing education opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employer
Vantage Builders is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees and applicants are treated with respect and professionalism. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs without regard to race, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law.