Project Estimator

Role Overview

The Project Estimator is integral to the design-build workflow, tasked with creating precise, thorough, and well-documented cost evaluations during the pre-construction phase for upscale residential and select commercial projects. This position collaborates closely with design, pre-construction, and project teams to assure transparent pricing, consistent scope understanding, and a seamless handover into construction. The role demands effective execution, coordination, and risk management within established systems and protocols.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive cost estimates from initial design stages through contract execution.
• Analyze architectural drawings, design concepts, engineering details, and scope documents critically.
• Conduct quantity takeoffs utilizing digital tools and estimating software.
• Detect potential scope ambiguities, unclear elements, or cost risks, and communicate them effectively.
• Update estimates continuously to reflect changes in drawings and preliminary selections.
• Manage bid processes by distributing plans and specifications to subcontractors and vendors and maintain primary contact throughout bidding.
• Establish and monitor bid schedules, ensuring full bid coverage with timely follow-ups.
• Track incoming bids, pursue additional bidders when necessary, and perform comparative evaluations of bids for scope, inclusions, exclusions, and assumptions.
• Oversee preparation and revisions of detailed, project-specific specifications tailored to scope, selections, and design intent.
• Integrate client inputs, interior design data, and reference images into specifications.
• Review plans alongside specifications to guarantee coordination and confirm subcontractor bids align completely with project documentation.
• Resolve any discrepancies prior to finalizing pricing.
• Lead value engineering efforts during pre-construction by proposing cost-effective alternatives without sacrificing quality or design objectives.
• Work collaboratively with leadership and the pre-construction sales team to refine strategies and pricing.
• Ensure all value engineering modifications are incorporated into final estimates.
• Engage with architects, designers, and internal teams to clarify design intents and assess cost implications.
• Participate in design-phase and estimating meetings to support informed decision-making.
• Produce clear and structured estimates and budget breakdowns.
• Facilitate a smooth transition from pre-construction to construction through thorough documentation.
• Maintain project estimates within company project management tools, documenting all assumptions, allowances, and scope clarifications precisely.
• Keep well-organized estimating files consistent with company templates and processes.

Qualifications

• Three to five or more years of experience in construction estimating, preferably in luxury or custom residential projects.
• Deep knowledge of design-build workflows, construction sequencing, materials, and labor factors.
• Proficiency with digital takeoff and estimating software such as Bluebeam and Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to interpret architectural drawings and detailed project specifications.
• Excellent organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, with capability to handle multiple bids simultaneously.
• Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate across design and construction teams.

Success Indicators

• Delivery of precise and well-structured estimates with minimal unexpected costs during construction.
• Compilation of clear and aligned project specifications and comprehensive bid coverage consistent with scope.
• Effective transition from pre-construction through to construction phases without disruption.
• Maintained strong working relationships with subcontractors, vendors, and internal team members.
• Ongoing refinement of estimating accuracy and pre-construction workflows.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with an attractive benefits package.
• Participation in company profit-sharing programs.
• Prospects for professional growth and developmental opportunities.
• Workplace characterized by collaboration and support.
• Access to industry-related events and networking platforms.