What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimating Manager position at MFS Construction?
MFS Construction is seeking a Construction Estimating Manager to lead our estimating team in San Jose, CA. The ideal candidate is a motivated, detail-oriented professional with 5 years of commercial construction estimating experience, ideally including public works projects. This managerial role will oversee preconstruction and bidding efforts, guide the estimating team, and ensure accurate, competitive estimates while supporting a smooth transition from bid to build.
Please note: This position is onsite. No relocation assistance is offered.
Responsibilities
- Key Responsibilities
- Lead, mentor, and manage the estimating team, ensuring high performance and professional development
- Oversee the preparation and review of detailed cost estimates for commercial and public works projects
- Supervise quantity takeoffs, pricing, and analysis of construction drawings and specifications
- Attend job walks, bid walks, pre-bid meetings, and client meetings as required
- Serve as the primary point of contact with potential clients, active clients, subcontractors, and vendors during preconstruction and bidding
- Review, level, and approve subcontractor bids to ensure scope coverage, pricing accuracy, and risk management
- Identify scope gaps, exclusions, and potential risk items in subcontractor proposals
- Lead the development of project budgets, bid summaries, and value-engineering options
- Ensure accurate entry and management of estimate data using Procore, BuildingConnected, and internal systems
- Maintain compliance with public works bidding requirements, including scope and bid deadlines
- Collaborate with Project Managers and leadership to ensure smooth transition from estimating to project execution
- Maintain organized records of bids, estimates, subcontractor contacts, and historical cost data
- Conduct post-bid reviews and provide recommendations to senior leadership
- Communicate clearly with internal teams and external stakeholders regarding assumptions, risks, and budget impacts
Requirements and Qualifications
- 5 years of commercial construction estimating experience, with supervisory or managerial responsibilities
- Experience with public works and commercial construction projects strongly preferred
- Proven leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with:
- Clients (potential and active)
- Subcontractors and vendors
- Internal project teams
- Ability to read, interpret, and analyze architectural, structural, civil, MEP, and specialty trade drawings
- Experience managing multiple bids, deadlines, and estimating staff simultaneously
- Proficiency or working knowledge of:
- BuildingConnected
- Procore
- Microsoft Office Suite (Excel required)
- Experience in healthcare, life sciences, or institutional projects is a plus
- Self-starter with sound judgment, decision-making skills, and the ability to lead a collaborative team
Company Culture & Core Values
At MFS Construction, the way we work is just as important as the work we perform. Our team is guided by:
- Integrity First – Ethical and transparent business conduct
- Commitment to Compliance – Full adherence to federal and California DIR prevailing-wage requirements
- Operational Excellence – Continuous improvement in processes and project delivery
- Respect and Professionalism – Clear communication and positive relationships
- Teamwork – Collaboration as a cornerstone of success
- Service Mindset – Supporting critical facilities with continuity and confidence
- Growth and Learning – Investment in training, mentoring, and career development
- Accountability – Ownership of responsibilities and outcomes
We foster a welcoming, organized, and supportive workplace where employees are recognized as individuals, ideas are encouraged, and contributions at every level are valued.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Job Type: Full-time