Summary
Under the supervision of the Senior Estimator, Preconstruction Manager, or General Manager, the Construction Estimator is responsible for estimating design, engineering, and construction costs as part of a design-builder's preconstruction team. This role involves close collaboration with internal and external design and engineering teams throughout all stages of project development.
Responsibilities
The following list includes representative duties; additional duties may be assigned as necessary:
Accurately interpret blueprints, specifications, and technical documents to prepare bid documents and estimates. Stay current with safety codes and construction industry advancements. Understand and navigate building codes and site-related regulations. Provide preliminary budget forecasts for preconstruction design teams based on schematic or progress designs. Collaborate with architects and other professionals throughout project lifecycles. Maintain up-to-date files or libraries of bids, engineering firms, trade contractors, suppliers, and material/equipment catalogs. Coordinate and conduct contractor pre-bid meetings, both onsite and online. Maintain effective communication with key contractors and bidders during bids and construction phases. Prepare bid documents for construction projects with preconstruction and external engineering teams. Evaluate site requirements, additions, and costing changes for purchasing decisions. Resolve cost discrepancies by analyzing and collecting information. Identify value engineering and cost-saving opportunities. Draft and present budgets, reports, and project plans for supervisory review. Schedule meetings with clients, site managers, and staff as required. Process paperwork and visit building sites as necessary. Monitor construction processes to ensure alignment with estimates and plans.
Qualifications and Skills
Thorough knowledge and ability to navigate specifications and plans. Proficiency in demonstrating project proposals and plans. Capacity to manage multiple assignments simultaneously. Understanding of current building codes and site regulations. Strong attention to detail. Effective verbal and written negotiation skills. Reading ability to interpret memoranda, reports, and other materials. Proficiency with computers and business machines, ensuring speed and accuracy. Solid math skills, including algebra, geometry, and basic arithmetic, for takeoffs, estimates, and cost analysis. Strong time management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Environmental and Physical Demands
Work environment includes typical office settings, industrial operations, and construction sites. Physically fit to traverse construction sites and gather required estimation data. Ability to bend, twist, reach, and climb as needed. Vision requirements include far vision (20 feet or further) and near vision (20 inches or less). Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Ability to sit, stand, walk, climb, stoop, and engage in other physical tasks as needed. Effective use of phones and other communication tools. Possession of a valid U.S. driver's license.
Education and Experience
A bachelor's degree in architecture, construction, or a related field from an accredited college or university; or Any combination of education and experience providing the necessary knowledge and skills.
