Construction Estimator

Position Summary

Cannon Building, a premier general contractor in the life sciences, healthcare, commercial/institutional, and industrial sectors, is seeking a seasoned Estimator to develop complex life science and healthcare construction projects in the San Diego region. The construction estimator will produce detailed estimates from preliminary design through construction phase and will liaison professionally with architects and engineers. The Construction Estimator will professionally and proficiently work with conceptual drawings and be able to work efficiently under tight deadlines.

The Construction Estimator projects and controls construction costs by analyzing, collecting and studying project design plans, subcontractors/vendor bids, and jobsite specific information. The Estimator sets the pre-construction budget for the project to control construction and operating costs. This position will work primarily on negotiated commercial projects within our core markets; Biopharmaceutical, Healthcare, Commercial, Institutional, and Industrial. 

Role Description

Project Planning and Coordination:

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, and design-development, and hard-bid estimates.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from plans and specifications
• Analyze project documents, drawings, and bid packages to determine complete project scope.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, consultants, project managers, and ownership teams during preconstruction.
•  Develop and maintain project budgets and cost
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving recommendation
• Assist with bid submissions, proposal preparation, and project hand-off meetings.
• Track material pricing, labor trends and market conditions within Southern CA construction market

Leadership and Communication:

• Maintain strong communication with internal teams, subcontractors, vendors, and clients
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, scope reviews, and internal estimating discussions
• Collaborate with operations teams to ensure seamless transition from estimating to construction
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors and suppliers
• Provide timely updates regarding estimate status, pricing gaps, and bid clarifications
• Support a team-oriented and collaborative work environment

Contract and Compliance Management Knowledge:

• Review bid documents, contracts, and specifications for scope requirements and compliance standards
• Ensure estimates align with project requirements, local building codes, and client expectations
• Assist in reviewing subcontractor inclusions, exclusions, and qualifications
• Maintain organized estimating records and documentation for audit and project tracking purposes
• Support compliance with company policies, contractual obligations, and pre-qualification requirements

Quality and Safety Assurance:

• Promote accuracy and completeness in all project estimates and bid submissions
• Support company quality standards by ensuring scope coverage and minimizing estimating gaps
• Consider safety requirements, site logistics, and project-specific conditions during budgeting and planning
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts related to estimating processes and best practices
• Maintain awareness of OSHA standards and construction safety considerations applicable during preconstruction planning

Travel Requirements:

• Travel may be required; the position is based out of the San Diego region, with travel needed for jobs across the company as well as for meetings at our corporate location in Placentia or other areas as required.

Qualifications

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred.
• Experience Requirement: 5 years of estimating experience within a GC environment
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Technical Software Skills: Proficiency in Bluebeam, OST, Procore, PlanSwift, Sage, or similar estimating software
•  Must possess a solid understanding of construction design, technical equipment, and quality systems
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
• Strong organizational, analytical, and time management skills
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent Written and Communication Skills: Candidate must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, enabling effective interaction with clients, stakeholders, senior executives, and team members. Strong presentation and negotiations skills to manage client expectations, resolve conflicts, and influence project outcomes.

Who We Are:

Cannon Building is a leading Life Science, Commercial/Institutional, Healthcare, and Industrial builder, providing highly efficient, cost-effective construction solutions with a commitment to safety and an uncompromising standard of quality. Cannon Building is proud to be a family-owned business, celebrating its 30th year in operation. We empower our employees to take the lead in achieving their own, unique goals. Our company culture is one of teamwork, inclusiveness, growth, leadership and creativity.

We respect and rely on one another for exceptional results. We promote an environment of collaboration, enjoy working together, and celebrate the success of our clients, knowing that customer success is the basis for our long-term success. To learn more about our work culture, visit our https://cannonbuilding.com/about/ Company Website.

Our Mission: To develop long-term working relationships by providing premier commercial construction services.

Our Vision: To efficiently deliver quality projects with the highest level of customer satisfaction.

Our Values: We are professional, ethical, innovative, and accountable.

Seeking a flexible, detailed oriented team player with the ability to manage multiple tasks, produce quality work, and consistently meet deadlines. Proven expertise in healthcare with a strong network of industry contacts. Experience in Life Sciences, Construction, or similar fields is beneficial.

Compensation:

Salary: $115k - $135k DOE

Offers a competitive compensation package that includes a 401(k) plan with match: employee group dental, vision, life, and disability. Medical insurance, family dental and vision insurance, and supplemental life insurance available with reasonable employee contributions; paid holidays, vacation, and sick time; FSA