Summary
The Chief Estimator plays a pivotal role within our organization, collaborating closely with Directors and
other Senior Leadership to lead and manage the Estimating Department. They hold overall responsibility
for the creation of budgets and estimates produced by the Estimating team. This includes overseeing the
estimating process for all projects bid and awarded, while also establishing and maintaining standardized
procedures, methods, and processes for estimating. Part of their role involves diligently training and
developing estimating resources and managing all estimating software. We are seeking an individual who
thrives on solving problems and embraces change and innovation, while also keeping an eye on the big
picture.
The Chief Estimator must efficiently and confidently manage specialized work, demonstrating
competence in their role. Analyzing past project performances is essential, as this information will be
used to establish estimating standards for all future estimates. Effective communication is a critical skill
for this role. The Chief Estimator must be adept at motivating others and responsive to their needs and
concerns. They must possess a persuasive teaching style to effectively communicate the company's
policies, programs, and systems.
As a manager, the Chief Estimator should follow up diligently and maintain positive relationships to
ensure both accuracy in work and a harmonious work environment. Adhering closely to established
guidelines, structures, and policies is vital, as the Chief Estimator will often collaborate with and work for
others. Overall, the position requires a skilled and capable individual who can lead the Estimating
Department with expertise, foster innovation, and ensure effective communication while maintaining a
high standard of work.
Responsibilities
• Responsible for mentoring, training, and advancing the abilities and technical skills of the
Estimating Department
• Close personal knowledge of B&D Policies and Procedures, most importantly the collaborative
oversight and accurate implementation of the Bid and Project Kickoff Procedure
• Selection of jobs to bid on with consultation of the Directors and Executive Management Team
• Ensuring efficiency and timeliness of estimate completions within the Department while
cultivation maintaining high morale and motivation of the group
• Collaborate with other company leaders on what markets are the most lucrative at the time and
for future consideration for the Go/No-Go Process
• Responsible for managing the software, tactics, and abilities of all Estimators
Job Description: Chief Estimator Version: 1 Page 2 of 3
• Assist owners and Business Development in the Go/No-Go process, and divide estimating
responsibilities to maximize Estimator efficiency and quality
• Review contracts and scopes with Project Managers and others as applicable
• Manage design/build estimates from the onset of a potential project, all the way through the
completion of the design phase and hand-off to the project management team
• Participate in the development, implementation, and management of Estimating/Business
Development Strategic and Tactical Plans
• Responsible for overseeing the management of all plan and specification estimating activities in a
way that maximizes the total profitability of the entire company
• Develop processes and motivational methods to ensure the estimating department meets strategic
and operational goals
• Develop, implement, and manage effective bid leveling by reviewing subcontractor/vendor
selection as well as scopes with B&D Managers and others involved in the bid review process as
needed to ensure scope coverage and profitability for estimates
• Assist in the negotiation of sole sourced contracts and change proposals
• Develop and maintain relationships with pre-construction staff and decision-makers of current and
prospective customers (owners and general contractors)
• Develop and implement efficient communication methods to communicate with Business
Development and the Directors of Construction during the bidding phase to ensure timely
completion of estimates
• Responsible for changes to material, labor rates, and labor factors used for bidding in estimating
software
• Maintains and communicates data on construction and material cost trends affecting project costs
• Analyze the progression and completion of estimates from Estimators to ensure they are taking
the proper course of action for an accurate page turn, bid review, and proposal submittal
• Coordinates technical proposal requirements with the Business Development Department
• Physical demands include long hours sitting, using a computer, standing, pulling/pushing,
walking, lifting, and climbing
• The job requires advanced computer proficiency and advanced critical thinking skills
• Other duties, activities, and responsibilities may vary and change as assigned
Education and Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or estimating
• 10 years or more of construction and/or estimating experience
• Relevant work experience may substitute for the degree
• Experience directly supervising a group of individuals
• 5 years with B&D preferred, but not required
Supervisory Responsibility
This position includes, but is not limited to, supervision of Sr. Estimators, Estimators, Quantity
Surveyors, and Interns (if applicable).