Estimator - Construction Subcontractor

Commercial Construction Project Estimator
Help Shape Successful Projects.

We're looking for a Commercial Construction Project Estimator who enjoys turning complex plans into winning opportunities. If you have a sharp eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and a passion for building projects before they ever break ground, this is an opportunity to make a real impact.

In this role, you'll be a key part of the preconstruction process—developing accurate, competitive estimates that help drive smart business decisions and successful project outcomes. You'll collaborate with project managers, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and leadership to evaluate costs, identify risks, and deliver high-quality proposals that position the company for growth.

This position is ideal for an estimator who thrives in a fast-moving environment, enjoys solving challenges, and wants to be a valued contributor on a collaborative and growing team.

Analyze project drawings, specifications, and bid documents to develop accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for commercial construction projects.
Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted scopes.
Solicit and evaluate pricing from subcontractors and vendors to ensure competitive and complete project coverage.
Compare and level subcontractor proposals, assessing pricing, scope, qualifications, and value.
Prepare organized, professional estimates and bid packages that support profitable project pursuits.
Partner with project managers, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to clarify scope, resolve discrepancies, and refine pricing strategies.
Assess project risks, construction methods, and market conditions to support informed estimating decisions.
Clearly communicate assumptions, inclusions, exclusions, and pricing considerations to internal stakeholders.
Experience estimating commercial construction projects from concept through bid submission.
Strong knowledge of quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, bid preparation, and estimating best practices.
Proficiency with estimating software and digital construction tools.
Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
Experience soliciting, reviewing, and leveling subcontractor and vendor proposals.
Understanding of commercial construction methods, materials, market conditions, and industry standards.

Experience using multiple estimating platforms and construction technology solutions.
Experience in construction management, estimating, engineering, or a related field.
Knowledge of commercial bidding strategies, procurement processes, and cost control practices.
Play a critical role in securing and shaping commercial construction projects.
Work on a diverse mix of commercial projects and project types.
This is an on-site position within a collaborative commercial construction environment. You'll work closely with project teams, subcontractors, vendors, architects, and engineers throughout the estimating process. The role involves reviewing plans and specifications, utilizing estimating software, participating in bid strategy discussions, and supporting the development of competitive, high-quality proposals that help drive project success.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Sioux Falls, SD.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision
401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Employee Assistance Program

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Oct 8, 2026.

We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

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