What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator position at Gardiner & Theobald LLC?
About G&T:
Gardiner & Theobald is an independent global consultancy offering a range of services to the construction and property industry, including project, cost, and construction management. We work with clients worldwide, finding solutions that exceed expectations and add value to projects.
Our beginnings can be traced back to London in 1835, when the practice was founded. With 180 years of history and heritage, we are proud to remain an independent consultancy. Gardiner and Theobald LLC, headquartered in New York City, operates across the U.S with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Austin, Dallas, Tampa, Miami, Massachusetts, and Chicago. With a commitment to independence, we have retained our consultancy status while delivering innovative solutions that add substantial value to high-profile projects. In North America, Gardiner & Theobald Inc. has a proven track record spanning over 25 years and has overseen projects exceeding a combined value of $35 billion.
About the Role:
Gardiner & Theobald is seeking a strategic and detail-oriented Estimator to join our growing team. In this key role, you will lead the estimating process on one or more high-profile projects, ensuring our clients receive accurate, insightful, and value-driven cost advice from early concept through to final delivery.
You’ll bring deep expertise in cost management and construction estimating to solve complex challenges, develop robust cost models, and drive informed decision-making. As a senior team member, you will be client-facing, contributing to presentations and key meetings, while also fostering strong relationships with internal teams, design consultants, and external stakeholders.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a leadership role in shaping the financial success of some of the most dynamic projects in the industry.
About The Candidate:
Gardiner & Theobald is actively looking to welcome an Estimator to our team. We’re seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional who brings precision, insight, and leadership to the estimating process. Our ideal candidate:
- Has experience in estimating various projects in the private sector in all phases of design.
- Has excellent interpersonal skills and a strong track record of delivering exceptional service to clients.
- Works effectively both independently and as a mentor to junior team members.
- Is considered an expert in construction estimating—accurate, efficient, and detail-driven. Not required but project management experience or relevant experience is a plus.
- Brings deep knowledge of construction methods, materials, and market trends, and is committed to continuous learning.
- Has a proactive mindset and is always looking for opportunities to improve workflows, tools, and best practices.
- Approaches challenges with a problem-solving attitude and a sharp attention to detail.
- Communicate clearly and confidently with both internal teams and external stakeholders.
- Aligns with our core values and is enthusiastic about contributing to a purpose-driven organization.
If this sounds like you, and you’re ready to take your estimating career to the next level, we encourage you to apply!
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare detailed cost estimates at all project stages, from concept through construction documents.
- Analyze drawings, specifications, and project data to develop accurate pricing and quantity take-offs.
- Develop and manage cost plans, budgets, and value engineering options to support client decisions.
- Maintain current knowledge of market rates, pricing trends, and cost drivers.
- Collaborate with design and project teams to ensure alignment with budget objectives.
- Mentor junior staff and review their work for accuracy and consistency.
- Participate in client meetings and present cost strategies with clarity and confidence.
- Maintain benchmarking data and support continuous improvement of estimating processes.
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, quantity surveying, or a related field (RICS, MRICS, or similar certification preferred).
- 4 Years of experience in an estimator or similar position
- Experience working on large core and shell projects as well as tenant improvements
- Experience in hospitality and multi-family residential is a plus, but not required
- Experience in building an estimate from scratch with various formats, generating qualifications, exclusions, alternates, allowances, and value engineering
- Proficiency in quantity take-offs, cost planning, and estimating techniques across all design phases.
- Experience working with estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, OST, etc) and excel.
- Familiarity with CSI MasterFormat and Uniformat classification systems.
- Willingness to grow the estimating department through strong internal coordination
- Strong communication and presentation skills, including the ability to explain cost data clearly to clients and stakeholders.
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Physical Requirements:
- Be in the office 3 times per week
- Attend client meetings on site as required
Core Competencies:
- Plans and Aligns- Planning and prioritising work to meet commitments aligned with the organization's goals
- Optimize Work Processes- Knowing the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement
- Ensures Accountability- Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments
- Instils Trust- Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity
- Communicates Effectively- Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences
Salary : $130,000 - $150,000