What are the responsibilities and job description for the Construction Estimator position at Kirkland, Inc.?
We are seeking an experienced Preconstruction Estimator to join our commercial construction team and play a strategic role in shaping projects from early concept through contract. In this role, you will work closely with Operations, Business Development, Owners, Architects, and Trade Partners to develop accurate budgets, competitive proposals, and detailed project strategies.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop conceptual, schematic, design-build, and lump sum estimates across multiple commercial sectors
- Collaborate with Owners, Architects, and internal teams to define project scope and budget proposals
- Review drawings, specifications, and other construction documents for completeness, potential risks, and constructability issues
- Prepare detailed quantity take-offs, cost estimates, and comprehensive bid packages that clearly communicate scope and pricing
- Develop bidders lists, solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals, and perform bid leveling to support award recommendations
- Lead pre-bid meetings and site visits to understand project conditions and potential challenges
- Collaborate with Operations and Business Development to develop preliminary schedules, logistics planning, and strategic project proposals
- Maintain historical cost data, estimating databases, and cost models to support accurate future estimates
- Provide support for value engineering discussions and alternative solution development
Experience & Skills
- 5 years of commercial construction estimating or preconstruction experience
- Strong understanding of construction methods, means, materials, and cost drivers
- Strong ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and technical documents
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams
- Ability to conceptualize projects from preliminary information and manage multiple estimates under tight deadlines
- Experience with estimating and construction software such as Sage (Timberline) Estimating, PlanSwift, Procore, Bluebeam, Microsoft Project, or equivalent
- Pre-engineered metal building experience is a plus but not required
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
- Knowledge of preconstruction services, bidding processes, and estimating methodologies
- Experience developing scopes of work, bid instructions, and evaluating subcontractor proposals
Benefits
- Competitive pay
- Company vehicle or vehicle allowance
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Short & Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Life Insurance
- 401(k) Match
- Paid Vacation and Holidays
Featured benefits
Disability insurance, Medical insurance, Vision insurance, Dental insurance, 401(k)
Requirements added by the job poster
• Bachelor's Degree
• Valid driver’s license
• 1 years of work experience with Sage Products
• Accept a background check
• Authorized to work in the United States
• 5 years of work experience with Construction Estimating
• No need for visa sponsorship
• Accept a drug test