What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cost Estimator | CM position at E-Frontiers?
๐๏ธ Cost Estimator โ Construction Consultancy
๐ Chicago, IL (Hybrid/On-Site)
A leading construction consultancy is seeking an experienced Cost Estimator to join its growing team in Chicago. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded estimating professional to support high-profile projects across commercial interiors, ground-up developments, mission critical, healthcare, education, and major capital programs.
The Cost Estimator will play a key role in delivering accurate, defensible cost plans and estimates while supporting clients with strategic commercial insight throughout the full project lifecycle.
๐ Key Responsibilities
- Develop detailed cost estimates and cost plans from early concept through construction documentation
- Interpret drawings, specifications, and project requirements to validate scope and pricing assumptions
- Complete full quantity take-offs across civil/sitework, structural, architectural, and MEP trades
- Engage subcontractors and suppliers to secure competitive and complete trade pricing
- Perform bid analysis, scope leveling, and trade comparisons to ensure estimate accuracy and completeness
- Support change management including change order review, cost impact assessments, and budget reconciliation
- Contribute to value engineering exercises and cost optimization strategies
- Attend site visits, pre-bid meetings, and project coordination sessions as required
- Produce high-quality cost reports, estimate narratives, and client-ready documentation
๐ฏ Candidate Requirements
- Bachelorโs degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or related field (preferred)
- Proven estimating experience across vertical construction projects (interiors and/or ground-up)
- Strong understanding of construction means, methods, sequencing, and trade packaging
- Ability to deliver both conceptual budgets and detailed bid-level estimates
- Familiarity with delivery models such as Design-Bid-Build, CM at Risk, and Design-Build
- Proficiency with estimating software, digital takeoff tools, and advanced Excel cost modeling
- Exposure to BIM-enabled estimating is a plus
- Strong communication skills with the ability to operate in a client-facing consultancy environment
๐ผ Why Join
- Work on high-value, complex construction programs with leading clients
- Be part of a high-performing consultancy team delivering premium commercial advisory services
- Strong career growth potential in a structured, professional environment
Salary : $110,000 - $150,000