Construction Estimator

HR Group - Construction Division

Position Summary

The Construction Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates for commercial construction projects. This role requires a thorough understanding of commercial building methods, materials, subcontractor scopes, and market pricing. The Estimator works closely with ownership, project managers, and subcontractors to evaluate project plans and specifications, develop detailed takeoffs, assemble bid packages, and support the company's growth through winning profitable work.

Key Responsibilities

Preconstruction & Estimating

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for commercial construction projects including new builds, tenant improvements, renovations, and additions.
• Perform accurate quantity takeoffs from architectural and structural drawings, specifications, and other construction documents using digital estimating tools (e.g., Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or similar).
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier bids to ensure competitive and complete pricing.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive cost database of labor rates, material costs, equipment costs, and production rates for commercial construction activities.
• Identify scope gaps, ambiguities, and potential risks in plans and specifications and communicate these clearly to ownership and project teams.
• Prepare bid proposals, including detailed breakdowns, allowances, alternates, and qualifications/exclusions.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site walks, and owner/architect interviews as needed.

Bid Management & Strategy

• Manage the full bid cycle from invitation to receipt through proposal submission, ensuring all deadlines are met.
• Track active bid opportunities through a structured pipeline or tracking system and provide regular status updates to ownership.
• Collaborate with ownership to develop bid strategy, including pricing targets, risk assessment, and go/no-go decisions.
• Analyze historical project data and actual vs. estimated costs to refine future estimating accuracy.
• Maintain organized bid files with complete documentation for reference and post-bid review.

Subcontractor & Vendor Relations

• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, material suppliers, and vendors across all commercial trades.
• Prequalify subcontractors and vendors based on capability, capacity, safety record, and financial stability.
• Negotiate pricing and contract terms with subcontractors and suppliers during the preconstruction phase.
• Maintain an up-to-date subcontractor and vendor database with contact information, trade specialties, and performance history.

Project Coordination & Handoff

• Participate in project handoff meetings to ensure estimates, scope assumptions, and budget details are clearly communicated to the project management team.
• Support project managers with budget reconciliation, change order pricing, and cost analysis during construction as needed.
• Assist with value engineering efforts by identifying cost-saving alternatives without compromising quality or design intent.
• Coordinate with the Construction Office Manager and project coordinators on document control, bid correspondence, and submittal tracking during preconstruction.

Market & Industry Awareness

• Stay current on commercial construction market conditions, material pricing trends, labor availability, and code/regulatory changes in Oklahoma and surrounding markets.
• Monitor competitor activity and market positioning to help inform bidding strategy.
• Attend industry events, plan rooms, and networking functions to build relationships and identify upcoming project opportunities.

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience estimating commercial construction projects (ground-up, tenant improvement, and/or renovation).
• Strong understanding of commercial construction methods, materials, means, and sequencing across CSI divisions.
• Proficiency with digital takeoff and estimating software (Bluebeam, PlanSwift, ProEst, or equivalent).
• Ability to read and interpret commercial construction drawings, specifications, and geotechnical/civil reports.
• Demonstrated experience soliciting, leveling, and negotiating subcontractor bids.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Construction Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience estimating projects in the Oklahoma commercial market.
• Familiarity with project management software (Procore, Buildertrend, or similar).
• ASPE (American Society of Professional Estimators) certification or membership.
• Experience with design-build and negotiated project delivery methods.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities tied to estimating accuracy and won project volume.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development and continuing education support.
• Company vehicle or vehicle allowance (if applicable).