Senior Estimator

Senior Estimator – Industrial & Commercial Construction

Salary: $170,000–$200,000 Annually

Direct Hire Excellent Benefits Relocation Support Available

We are actively seeking a Senior Estimator with a proven track record in industrial and commercial construction to join a nationally recognized general contractor. This position requires deep expertise in estimating large-scale, ground-up builds, retrofits, and high-complexity construction projects such as data centers, manufacturing facilities, warehouses, hospitals, and multi-use commercial spaces.

The successful candidate will lead all preconstruction estimating activities, develop comprehensive cost strategies, and partner closely with project stakeholders to deliver precise and competitive bids.

Key Responsibilities:

Perform comprehensive quantity takeoffs for all scopes of work using architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and civil drawings.

Develop full project cost estimates for ground-up commercial, industrial, and mixed-use projects, often in the $10M–$200M+ range.

Lead preconstruction and bid preparation including scope breakdowns, bid leveling, subcontractor vetting, and procurement planning.

Perform site visits and constructability reviews to assess logistics, phasing, temporary infrastructure, and risk factors that may impact cost and schedule.

Coordinate with architects, engineers, consultants, and owners to clarify scope, identify value engineering opportunities, and ensure alignment on budget objectives.

Evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals for completeness, competitiveness, and scope alignment; lead pre-bid meetings and clarify inclusions/exclusions.

Build and maintain historical cost databases to improve accuracy of future estimates and support budgeting for conceptual and schematic design stages.

Participate in design-build and GMP proposal processes, supporting pricing through various design milestones (SD, DD, CD).

Analyze construction market conditions, labor trends, and escalation factors to ensure estimates reflect current and future market realities.

Provide mentorship and guidance to junior estimators and support staff to ensure team-wide accuracy and efficiency.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related technical discipline.

10+ years of experience in estimating within the commercial and/or industrial construction sectors, with recent experience in senior or lead roles.

Strong background in complex commercial and industrial building systems, including HVAC, process piping, structural steel, and specialized finishes.

Proficient in estimating platforms such as PlanSwift, STACK, WinEst, Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff (OST), and Excel.

Deep knowledge of CSI divisions, local building codes, and construction sequencing for large-scale commercial and industrial projects.

Experience with design-build, lump-sum, GMP, and cost-plus delivery methods.

Ability to read and interpret construction documents, technical specifications, shop drawings, and geotechnical reports.

Strong financial acumen with the ability to forecast, track, and explain cost variances throughout preconstruction.

Outstanding verbal and written communication skills; must be comfortable interfacing with executives, clients, and field teams.

Ability to manage tight deadlines, high volumes of work, and multiple concurrent estimates under pressure.

Valid driver’s license and ability to travel for site assessments and pre-bid walkthroughs.

Preferred Certifications and Credentials:

OSHA 30 Construction Safety Certification

Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) – American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE)

LEED Accreditation (if working with sustainable design projects)

Construction Estimating Certificate from an accredited institution

Procore, CMiC, or similar project management software experience

Benefits Include:

Competitive base salary: $170,000–$200,000

Annual performance-based bonuses

Company vehicle or vehicle allowance

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, and sick leave

Relocation assistance for qualified candidates

Career advancement opportunities and ongoing training

Supportive, team-focused work culture