Virtual Assistant – Estimating Support

Role Overview

This remote opportunity involves providing essential operational assistance to the Estimating Department by performing specialized data extraction from construction plans and preparing polished project proposals. The position aims to alleviate the workload of senior estimators through precise numerical work, mastery of spreadsheet management, and drafting complete proposals ready for final senior evaluation.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct focused takeoffs by interpreting construction plans, blueprints, and specifications to measure quantities, labor hours, and specific items related exclusively to testing and inspection scopes.
• Compile and format detailed estimates using established company spreadsheet templates, preparing comprehensive proposal drafts that only need a final leadership review before submission.
• Coordinate among internal and external stakeholders to gather and standardize project information required for proposal development.
• Optimize and maintain estimating templates and tools through manual revisions and AI-driven enhancements.
• Communicate proactively by identifying discrepancies, asking pertinent questions about project details, and verifying missing information to ensure clarity.
• Ensure data accuracy by validating dimensions, quantities, and pricing prior to escalating to senior staff.

Qualifications & Skills

• 2 to 4 years of relevant experience in construction estimating, quantity takeoffs, or operational support within construction, engineering, or testing and inspection services.
• Advanced abilities in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, including complex formulas and template design, plus familiarity with CRM and digital takeoff tools.
• Working knowledge of AI applications (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude) to enhance workflow efficiency and template formatting.
• Strong communication skills with a clear ability to phrase technical queries effectively and convey critical project details.
• High emotional intelligence, self-advocacy skills, and professionalism in collaboration with senior technical personnel.
• Detail-oriented, proactive, solution-focused mindset with excellent organization and prioritization under tight deadlines.

Technical Requirements

• Own a high-performance computer capable of handling complex architectural drawings and blueprints smoothly.
• Reliable, high-speed internet connection.
• Dual-monitor setup required to enable efficient multitasking between blueprints and estimating documentation.

Additional Information

• A proactive approach is essential; the role involves actively researching missing information and self-advocating to maintain proposal progress.
• Performance is measured on numerical accuracy, quick proposal preparation turnaround, and minimizing senior staff review time.
• The focus is strictly on detailed testing and inspection takeoffs rather than broad general construction estimating.
• The candidate maintains the firm’s professional brand through clear, high-quality documents and proposals.