What are the responsibilities and job description for the Construction Senior Estimator position at Elford, Inc?
Senior Estimator – Multi-Family Construction
Position Overview
Elford is seeking a Senior Estimator to lead preconstruction and pursuit efforts across multi-family projects including wood-frame, podium, and mixed-use developments. This role is responsible for driving estimating strategy, developing accurate and competitive cost models, and influencing how projects are won. The Senior Estimator partners closely with Operations, Business Development, and Executive Leadership to ensure projects are positioned for success from concept through contract.
What You’ll Own
- Lead estimating efforts from early conceptual budgeting through GMP and final bid submission
- Evaluate drawings, specifications, and project scope to develop complete and accurate cost estimates
- Build, manage, and strengthen subcontractor and vendor relationships to ensure strong market coverage and competitive pricing
- Develop and oversee bidder lists, subcontractor outreach, and bid leveling/analysis
- Perform and/or oversee detailed quantity takeoffs and pricing
- Create and manage cost models specific to multi-family construction (wood-frame, podium, mixed-use)
- Partner with Operations to align estimates with real-world means, methods, sequencing, and labor productivity
- Lead value engineering efforts and present cost-saving strategies and system alternatives to clients and design teams
- Reconcile estimates with owners, architects, and consultants throughout the preconstruction process
- Analyze market trends, subcontractor capacity, and cost escalation to inform pursuit strategy
- Track estimate performance, historical cost data, and trends to continuously improve accuracy
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Accounting, and Preconstruction teams to ensure alignment
- Support Business Development efforts including client presentations, pursuit strategy, and relationship management
- Mentor and support Estimators and Assistant Estimators
What You Bring
- 7–10 years of construction experience with a strong focus in estimating
- Proven experience leading estimates for multi-family projects (garden-style, podium, mixed-use)
- Deep understanding of construction means and methods and how they impact cost, schedule, and productivity
- Experience with conceptual estimating, GMP development, and negotiated work
- Strong subcontractor network and ability to drive competitive bid coverage
- Ability to influence, negotiate, and lead discussions with internal teams, clients, and trade partners
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
- Confident communicator with the ability to present estimates and strategies clearly