What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Estimator position at JR Merit Inc.?
About JR Merit
JR Merit, Inc. was founded in 1997 on the belief that "merit"—the quality of being good and worthy—was something worth working for. Today, we are recognized as one of the highest-value industrial and mechanical construction contractors in the marketplace for complex infrastructure and critical plant processes. We take pride in being a union shop with a passion for surpassing client expectations.
We're growing JR Merit offers an exciting opportunity to develop and expand your career by supporting projects in highly unique and technical industries. If you want to have a voice, influence our continued growth, and work collaboratively as a team to find innovative solutions to our clients' construction challenges, we want to get to know you.
Division Overview: Advanced Manufacturing
At the forefront of precision and performance, our Advanced Manufacturing Division delivers high-accuracy logistics and mission-critical infrastructure that keep the world's most demanding facilities running without interruption. We specialize in supporting high-tech, biotech, pharmaceutical, and laboratory environments where sterility, uptime, and strict regulatory compliance are non-negotiable.
From industrial pipe and process system fabrication to complex civil concrete and equipment installations, our work ensures continuity in existing operations and excellence in turnkey new construction. Join a team that thrives on minimizing disruption, meeting exacting standards, and delivering results where precision and reliability matter most.
Position Overview
As a Senior Estimator at JR Merit, you will be working in conjunction with the Estimating department to lead preconstruction activities and the pursuit of new construction projects. You will be responsible for accurately quantifying, pricing, strategizing, and preparing estimate packages to secure profitable work. The Lead Estimator will bring a positive, "can-do" attitude, a strong drive to "make it happen", top-notch professionalism, and the desire to be a lifelong learner and advance as opportunities are presented.
This position has regular contact with all levels of internal and field staff, the Operations and Executive Leadership Teams, customers, and third-party partners and vendors. This position reports directly to the Preconstruction Manager and is considered part of the Operations team.
Essential Functions
- Efficiently solicit competitive and specification-compliant material and subcontractor pricing.
- Develop and perform itemized, detailed, organized, and accurate material and labor manhour estimates based on project specifications and drawings.
- Develop a complete Bill of Materials based on specification and drawing requirements for process, mechanical, and plumbing piping systems.
- Review and correct others' takeoffs and estimates to identify risks and discrepancies.
- Perform manual takeoffs and compile estimates using digitized software, such as QuoteSoft and B2W.
Required Qualifications
- 5 years of estimating experience of industrial/mechanical projects ranging from $5k - $20M .
- A Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Data Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or related field. E quivalent technical experience may be accepted in lieu of a degree .
Desired Qualifications
- Experience leading estimate or proposal teams.
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
- Strong acumen in mathematical calculations and data processing.
- Ability to manage multiple competing priorities and execute tasks in a timely fashion.
- Knowledge of MCAA rates.
- Experience using software such as B2W, HCSS, Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, Excel, and Microsoft Office suite for estimating and scheduling.
- Field and/or shop experience.
- Ability to work with a diverse team to achieve results.
Working Conditions
- This role is based out of our corporate office in Vancouver, WA. Occasional travel may be required to support JR Merit's projects.
- Work is generally performed while standing or sitting, in an office environment, with a computer and telephone.
- At times, work may be performed at a jobsite where additional training, certifications, or clearances may be needed to comply with jobsite requirements.
- Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds.
- Must possess a valid driver's license and clean driving record.
Compensation Range
$135,000-160,000
Benefits We Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Discretionary merit bonus
- Medical/dental/vision insurance for employees dependents
- Tiered paid time off (PTO) plan and paid holidays (including one floating holiday)
- 401(k) & Match
- Career Development Map/Growth Opportunities
- Employee Assistance Program
- Long Term Disability Coverage
Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer
JR Merit, Inc. is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. We are a background screening, drug-free workplace.
JR Merit, Inc provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation in order to apply for a job, please submit your request to
Work Authorization
JR Merit, Inc. is a federal contractor which participates in E-Verify. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship.