Estimator

SUMMARY: The STR Estimator is responsible for delivering timely, accurate, and detailed estimates for restoration and reconstruction projects, including residential and commercial losses in the Phoenix market. This role maintains high standards of professionalism, quality, and accuracy in scope creation, cost estimation, documentation, and customer interaction while collaborating closely with internal teams and external partners from initial inspection through project completion. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Leadership

• Upholds and demonstrates Kowalski Construction’s core values, mission, and policies in all aspects of the role.
• Participates in department and company meetings; shares knowledge, technical insight, and job-specific information.
• Gives and receives feedback and proactively contributes to process and workflow improvements.
• Participates in continuing education and training to develop estimating, construction, and customer service skills.

Administration

• Utilizes company software platforms (Xactimate, Matterport, Albi) to create, document, and manage estimates and scopes of work.
• Maintains daily updates, notes, and accurate documentation in project management systems.
• Attends and participates in estimator, production, and project meetings to support handoffs and execution.
• Solicits, reviews, and incorporates subcontractor and vendor quotes, ensuring proper approvals as needed.
• Assists in managing draw schedules and supports accounts receivable processes related to estimate deliverables.

Operations/fieldwork

• Conducts thorough site inspections and loss assessments for residential and commercial projects.
• Produces accurate, detailed, and timely estimates in alignment with project specifications, carrier guidelines, and client/insurance expectations.
• Coordinates with Project Managers to review scope, job strategy, and customer expectations before and during production.
• Reads and interprets blueprints, engineering reports, and technical documents as needed.
• Negotiates scope and pricing with insurance adjusters and carriers when required.
• Monitors project budgets from an estimating perspective and revises estimates for change orders or unforeseen conditions.
• Serves as a point of contact for estimating-related questions and customer concerns.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Core abilities

• Ability to understand and apply insurance policy coverages appropriately within estimate scopes.
• Ability to maintain composure, clarity, and professionalism in emergency or high-pressure situations.
• Ability to clearly explain scope of work, changes, and pricing to clients and stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates/projects simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to identify and resolve problems proactively and professionally.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Authorization to work in the U.S.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass background and MVR checks.
• Ability to obtain any company-required driving classification within 30 days of hire and maintain reliable transportation.
• Ability to pass a drug screen.
• High school diploma or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree or IICRC certifications preferred.
• 2 years of experience in restoration, construction, or a related estimating role.
• Experience with restoration/estimating software such as Xactimate and other industry platforms.
• Knowledge of insurance claims protocols and restoration industry standards.
• Ability to speak English fluently; bilingual Spanish preferred for the Phoenix area.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: 

• Frequently required to walk, stand, climb, stoop, kneel, and perform site visits on active or damaged job sites.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands, and operate standard office and computer equipment.
• Occasionally required to lift or move objects exceeding 50 pounds.
• Frequently required to engage in repetitive hand, arm, and leg motions and to see and hear well (with or without correction) to avoid safety hazards.
• Regularly exposed to wet, humid, hot, or cold conditions typical of the Phoenix area, moderate jobsite noise, and fumes or airborne particles.
• Occasionally required to wear full and half-face respirators, eye protection, gloves, and other PPE; work at elevated heights, near moving mechanical parts, and around sewage, fecal matter, mold, risk of electrical shock, or other hazards.
• Required to maintain medical requirements as determined by Kowalski Construction (including, but not limited to, vaccinations, respiratory fit testing, and physicals).

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.