What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator - JamesCo Builders, LLC position at Higher International Human Resources (HIHR)?
This hiring process is a partnership between Higher International Human Resources and JamesCo, LLC. All resume's received will be shared with both organizations.
1. Title amp; Reporting
- Official Title: Estimator
- Reports To: President of JamesCo Builders
- Collaborates With: Project Managers, Assistant Project Managers, and Superintendents
- Salary: $55,000 - $75,000, must have Commercial Construction experience
- This role is based on-site in Central Florida. Please note that this is not a remote position.
2. Typical Projects
- Estimators are responsible for preparing bids and cost estimates for a variety of commercial construction projects, including tenant buildouts, renovations, ground-up commercial, retail, hospitality, medical, industrial, automotive, and QSR.
- Project Range: $100,000 to $5,000,000 (with potential for larger projects as the company grows)
3. Primary Duties
- Review plans, drawings, and specifications to develop accurate cost estimates
- Solicit and analyze subcontractor and supplier bids using Planhub and Pantera Tools
- Prepare detailed proposals, bid packages, and budget reports
- Collaborate with Project Managers and APMs to ensure budgets are realistic and align with company financial goals
- Maintain accurate records of all bids, submittals, and procurement data
- Conduct take-offs and quantity calculations to support pricing. Prepare and submit RFI’s prior to due date.
- Identify potential risks, cost-saving opportunities, or value engineering options
- Attend pre-bid meetings and coordinate with clients, architects, and subcontractors as needed
4. Authority amp; Decision Limits
- Responsible for recommending subcontractor selections for bids, subject to PM/Owner approval
- Cannot approve contracts, change orders, or payments
- Authority limited to cost estimation, bid preparation, and proposal recommendations
5. Software Responsibilities
- Primary tools: RedTeam for project budget tracking on existing projects, Planhub and Pantera Tools for subcontractor and supplier bid management
- Microsoft products for Bid Forms, Proposal Letters, etc.
- Maintain organized records and documentation for each bid and project
- Ensure accuracy of cost data and reporting for internal and client use
6. Communication Expectations
- Coordinate daily with Subcontractors and Clients regarding estimates, budgets, and bid status
- Communicate clearly with subcontractors and suppliers regarding scope, pricing, and deadlines
- Participate in internal meetings to discuss upcoming bids and project planning
7. Budget amp; Cost Control
- Develop detailed, accurate estimates to ensure projects meet budget expectations
- Track subcontractor pricing trends and provide recommendations to improve cost competitiveness
- Collaborate with PMs to monitor budget assumptions during preconstruction and closeout phases
8. Site Presence
- Limited site visits required, primarily for pre-bid review or critical take-offs
- Collaborate with PMs and Superintendents to validate conditions affecting estimates
9. Direct Reports
- Typically no direct reports, but may assist interns or junior estimating staff as the company grows
10. Required Qualifications
- Minimum 1–5 years commercial construction estimating experience
- Strong knowledge of construction documents, codes, and cost estimating practices
- Proficiency in RedTeam, Planhub, Pantera Tools, and Microsoft Excel
- Excellent analytical, communication, and organizational skills
11. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Estimate Accuracy: Final project costs within ±5% of initial estimates
- Bid Success Rate: Number of successful bids vs. total submitted
- Timeliness: Submission of estimates and bids per project schedule
- Subcontractor Coordination: Effective and accurate bid solicitation and management. 3 Bids Per Trade expected for each bid proposal submitted.
- Financial Contribution: Estimator recommendations result in profitable project outcomes
12. Travel Expectations
- Minimal; primarily local site visits for take-offs or pre-bid meetings
13. After-Hours / Weekend Availability
- Availability as needed for critical bid deadlines or client meetings
14. Training amp; Mentorship
- May assist in training junior estimating staff or interns
- Provide guidance on cost estimating best practices and software usage
15. Not Part of Role
- Estimators do not manage daily project execution, on-site supervision, or client communications post-award (handled by PMs and Superintendents)
Salary : $55,000 - $75,000