Job Title: Estimator

Job Description

We are seeking a motivated Estimator / Project Manager to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will conduct site visits with prospective clients to gather measurements, define scopes of work, and document site conditions. You will independently manage smaller commercial projects, while supporting larger projects alongside Project Managers and Superintendents. Your tasks will include preparing invitations to bid, developing scopes, budgeting, and performing value engineering. You will create and maintain construction schedules to ensure timely project execution and prepare detailed client proposals.

Responsibilities

• Conduct site visits to gather measurements, define scope of work, and document site conditions.
• Independently manage smaller commercial projects with minimal supervision.
• Assist Project Managers and Superintendents on larger projects.
• Prepare invitations to bid and develop project scopes.
• Perform budgeting and value engineering.
• Create and maintain construction schedules.
• Prepare detailed client proposals including cost estimates and scope descriptions.
• Perform material and labor take-offs for self-performed trades.
• Compile subcontractor bid lists and issue Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
• Review and evaluate subcontractor proposals for completeness and accuracy.
• Draft subcontract agreements and participate in contract negotiations.
• Attend Owner-Architect-Contractor (OAC) and subcontractor meetings, and prepare meeting minutes.
• Manage project documentation including submittals, change orders, and RFIs.
• Generate pay applications, manage budgets, and produce financial reports.
• Communicate clearly and consistently with clients to ensure alignment and satisfaction.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency in Procore, Bluebeam, Microsoft Project, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• 2–4 years of hands-on experience in the construction industry, with exposure to multiple trades.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to read and interpret construction blueprints and technical drawings.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Experience in commercial construction, renovations, retail, and restaurant projects.
• Experience in construction management, project management, estimation, bidding, and budgeting.

Work Environment

The position requires working all five days in the Evanston office, which consists of a team of 12 individuals, 4 in the field and 8 in the office. The company is a fast-growing commercial general contractor based in Evanston, Illinois, with projects across Chicagoland and expanding into new markets. The environment is lean and agile, providing opportunities to take on diverse responsibilities and gain exposure to both estimating and project management functions.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Evanston, IL.

The pay range for this position is $80000.00 - $135000.00/hr.

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)

This is a fully onsite position in Evanston,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Dec 26, 2025.

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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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 due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $80,000 - $135,000