What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator position at Actalent?
The Assistant Estimator supports the preconstruction and estimating process for multifamily and other commercial construction projects. This role focuses on quantity takeoffs, subcontractor solicitation, bid analysis, budgeting, and proposal preparation. The position offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with experienced estimators and project teams while building the skills needed to grow into a lead estimating role within a rapidly expanding company.
Responsibilities- Assist in preparing detailed quantity takeoffs for multifamily, commercial, mixed-use, and residential construction projects.
- Support subcontractor solicitation by distributing bid documents, tracking responses, and following up to ensure comprehensive bid coverage.
- Contribute to bid analysis by reviewing subcontractor proposals, comparing scope and pricing, and identifying discrepancies or gaps.
- Help develop project budgets and cost estimates using estimating software, Microsoft Excel, and other tools.
- Participate in the preparation of clear, accurate, and competitive proposals for construction projects.
- Read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project documents to ensure accurate estimating and scope definition.
- Apply knowledge of construction means, methods, materials, and sequencing to support realistic and buildable estimates.
- Coordinate with project teams and estimators to clarify scope, align budgets with project requirements, and support preconstruction planning.
- Maintain organized records of bids, estimates, and project documentation to support efficient preconstruction workflows.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating processes, tools, and templates as the company grows.
- 3–5 years of estimating, project engineering, field engineering, assistant project management, or related construction experience.
- Experience working for a General Contractor.
- Experience with commercial, multifamily, mixed-use, or residential construction projects.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project documents.
- Understanding of construction means, methods, materials, and sequencing.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and the Microsoft Office Suite.
- Experience using estimating software and digital tools in a construction environment.
- Strong analytical skills for cost estimating, pricing, and bid comparison.
- Effective communication skills to collaborate with estimators, project teams, and subcontractors.
- Experience with estimating software such as Bluebeam, PlanSwift, OST, Procore, BuildingConnected, or similar platforms is preferred.
- Demonstrated interest in multifamily construction and preconstruction processes.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Motivation to grow into a lead estimating position within a growing organization.
- Comfort working with digital blueprints and construction documents.
- General understanding of cost estimating principles and budgeting in construction.
This is an in-office, onsite position within a growing construction-focused organization. You work closely with estimators and project teams in a collaborative preconstruction environment that relies on digital tools such as Microsoft Office, estimating software, and blueprint review platforms. The company emphasizes growth and advancement, offering opportunities for quick promotion as you develop your skills and take on greater responsibility.
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of North Chesterfield, VA.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $80000.00 - $100000.00/hr.
Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in North Chesterfield,VA.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 15, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
Salary : $80,000 - $100,000