What are the responsibilities and job description for the Commercial Estimator (Storefront & Glazing) position at Cherry Glass & Aluminum?
Location: Idaho Falls, ID (serving Eastern Idaho & Western Wyoming)
Company: Cherry Glass & Aluminum — locally owned since 1968
Cherry Glass & Aluminum (CGA) is a multi-generational local business established in 1968 as a branch of Capitol Glass and then purchased and rebranded in 1978. CGA is currently looking for a self-motivated and reliable individual who understands glass and enjoys working hard to join our team. CGA is located in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and specializes in glass and aluminum solutions for commercial and residential applications. This position will be based out of Idaho Falls, Idaho.
Core Purpose
Generate accurate, competitive estimates for commercial (and select residential) glass and aluminum projects by performing takeoffs, reviewing plans/specs, managing bid opportunities, and supporting submittals/shop drawings. This role is crucial to securing profitable work and strengthening contractor relationships.
What You’ll Do
Daily
Considering a move? Eastern Idaho offers a unique mix of professional opportunity and unmatched quality of life:
Benefits & Expectations
Company: Cherry Glass & Aluminum — locally owned since 1968
Cherry Glass & Aluminum (CGA) is a multi-generational local business established in 1968 as a branch of Capitol Glass and then purchased and rebranded in 1978. CGA is currently looking for a self-motivated and reliable individual who understands glass and enjoys working hard to join our team. CGA is located in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and specializes in glass and aluminum solutions for commercial and residential applications. This position will be based out of Idaho Falls, Idaho.
Core Purpose
Generate accurate, competitive estimates for commercial (and select residential) glass and aluminum projects by performing takeoffs, reviewing plans/specs, managing bid opportunities, and supporting submittals/shop drawings. This role is crucial to securing profitable work and strengthening contractor relationships.
What You’ll Do
Daily
- Prepare small storefront quotes and change orders.
- Perform quantity takeoffs from PDFs/blueprints; leverage measurement tools to speed up and improve accuracy.
- Conduct job-measure wall checks for residential and commercial projects.
- Read/interpret architectural plans/specs
- Manage project documentation (details, budgets, timelines, updates).
- Create value-engineering and design options that meet customer/GC needs.
- Communicate clearly with GCs/subs about bids, alternates, and scope clarifications.
- Prepare comprehensive takeoffs for large storefront/curtain wall packages.
- Coordinate with PMs/drafters on shop drawings; contribute to submittal packages and pre-job prep.
- Maintain and update a “keep list” of upcoming bids; own deadlines.
- Build pipeline: call or reach out to contractors to uncover opportunities.
- Ensure estimates address insurance and compliance requirements/notes.
- Revise and issue change orders when scope shifts.
- Negotiate pricing or scope with contractors to protect margins.
- Tackle unique/custom designs with detailed estimates.
- Support PMs/production with estimate clarifications and RFIs.
- Troubleshoot discrepancies in drawings, specs, or field measurements.
- Level bids and vendor quotes; document inclusions/exclusions/qualifications.
- Estimates delivered/week
- % of bids submitted before deadline
- Win rate %
- Estimate vs. actual cost variance
- Quoted hours vs. actual hours variance
- Storefront/glazing knowledge (commercial aluminum doors, frames, hardware; insulated/tempered/laminated glass).
- Blueprint reading & plan/spec interpretation
- Proficiency with digital takeoffs
- Experience with glazing estimating platforms (GDS WinBidPro or similar) a plus.
- Understanding of building codes and typical submittal/shop-drawing workflows.
- Strong Excel skills; detail-oriented, organized, and deadline-driven.
- Clear, professional communication with GCs, subs, vendors, and internal teams.
- Valid driver’s license; ability to perform site measures with laser/tape; basic PPE use.
- GDS/WinBidPro experience (vendor catalogs, optimized cut lists, and reporting).
- Bluebeam power-user (custom measurement tools/markups for faster QTO).
- Familiarity with shop-drawing review and documentation practices.
- Relationships with regional GCs and suppliers.
Considering a move? Eastern Idaho offers a unique mix of professional opportunity and unmatched quality of life:
- Outdoor Paradise: Minutes from world-class hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing.
- National Parks Nearby: Less than 2 hours from Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
- Scenic Mountains & Rivers: Snake River, Teton Range, and hundreds of alpine lakes for year-round recreation.
- Family-Friendly Community: Idaho Falls is safe, affordable, and known for excellent schools and a strong sense of community.
- Accessible Adventure: Weekend getaways to Jackson Hole, Sun Valley, or Salt Lake City are easy drives.
Benefits & Expectations
- Benefits after 90 days include:
- Paid Time Off
- Overtime
- Health Insurance (80% coverage for the employee)
- Voluntary Vision & Dental Insurance
- PPE Allowances
- 40–60 hrs/week, dependent on workload and season
- Pay based on skills, experience, and work ethic
- https://youtu.be/q2Hanyjs9a4?si=BJmjEp0cHVYhtUmj
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