Construction Estimator

About CALTEC

We are a growing general contractor with ambitious goals to grow multiple times over the next five years. Our projects range from public works builds to complex tenant improvements, with plans to expand into commercial work. We’re looking to add an Estimator to our estimating team and to be a cornerstone in building a strong foundation as we scale. This role will also help digitize our internal cost catalog. This opening is ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic, evolving environment.

Position Overview

We’re looking for an experienced Estimator who has worked for or with General Contractors, especially on public works projects. This person will support all estimating functions from plan review to bid submission, with a strong focus on accuracy, subcontractor coordination, and responsiveness to changing project scopes.

This position can be remote if the candidate can reliably perform the duties listed and communicate effectively with the team.

In addition to day-to-day estimating, this role shares responsibility with management to build and maintain a cost catalog based on past project data. The digital catalog does not exist yet and the applicant will start organizing it, with improvements over time.

Key Responsibilities

1-Estimating and Takeoffs

• Prepare detailed estimates for public works construction projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs using Bluebeam or similar tools.
• Review plans, specifications, and addenda to fully understand project scope and requirements.

2-Cost Catalog Development

• Work with management to develop an internal cost catalog from historical bids and cost data.
• Collect and organize unit cost data manually from past projects and subcontractor pricing.
• Maintain and update catalog for future use in budgeting and early-stage estimates.

3-Subcontractor and Vendor Coordination

• Solicit bids from subcontractors and suppliers; ensure full trade coverage.
• Level and compare subcontractor quotes; identify exclusions and overlaps.
• Maintain and expand a qualified subcontractor list for public and commercial work.

4-Bid Strategy and Preparation

• Assemble complete bid packages and ensure accurate, timely submissions.
• Work with leadership to identify bid risks, alternates, and cost-saving options.
• Attend pre-bid meetings or job walks (virtually or in person as needed).

5-Internal Handoff

• Participate in preconstruction and handoff meetings with project management.
• Assist project teams with bid clarifications and pricing breakdowns.

Required Qualifications

• 3 years of construction estimating experience, preferably with a General Contractor.
• Strong experience with public works bids and familiarity with agency bid procedures.
• Ability to interpret plans, specs, and agency requirements accurately.
• Proficient in Excel, Bluebeam, and typical estimating workflows.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently (especially if remote).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with school districts, municipalities, or other public agencies.
• Interest or experience in commercial estimating.
• Background in developing or using internal cost data or estimating templates.

Benefits

• Health and Dental Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Matching
• Paid Sick Leave
• Flexible Schedule (as long as responsibilities are met)
• Role-specific training and development
• Mileage Reimbursement
• Phone Stipend

Disclaimers

• We participate in E-Verify.
• We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
• We are not sponsoring H1B visas at this time.

Pay: $32.00 - $45.35 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• Construction estimating: 5 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Irvine, CA 92618 (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Irvine, CA 92618

Salary : $32 - $45