Head of Estimating

Position Overview: The Head of Estimating leads the team of estimators in preparing accurate and competitive estimates for commercial landscape, hardscape, and concrete projects. This role combines advanced technical knowledge, strategic thinking, and leadership skills to secure projects that align with company goals. As a senior manager this position ensures the effectiveness of the estimating team while maintaining communication with clients, stakeholders, and internal departments.

Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management:

• Lead, manage and mentor a team of estimators, providing guidance and support to ensure accurate and timely completion of bids.
• Allocate resources and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing training for team members.

Estimating & Bid Preparation:

• Analyze blueprints, specifications, and RFPs to develop detailed cost estimates.
• Oversee and perform takeoffs, calculating material, labor, and equipment costs.
• Prepare bid proposals, ensuring alignment with client requirements and company profitability standards.
• Research and maintain up-to-date pricing for materials, labor, and subcontractor services.

Communication & Client Interaction:

• Act as the primary contact for clients, architects, and subcontractors during the estimating phase.
• Foster and maintain strong relationships with vendors, subcontractors, and clients to support ongoing and future projects.
• Present estimates and proposals to internal leadership and external stakeholders.

Process Optimization:

• Develop and implement standard operating procedures for the estimating department.
• Continually update estimating software and tools to improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Analyze bid results and identify areas for improvement in estimating processes.

Project Handoff & Support:

• Collaborate with the operations team to ensure a seamless transition from estimating to execution.
• Participate in pre-construction meetings to provide technical input and address project complexities.
• Support project managers in reviewing scope changes and developing change orders.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• 10 years of experience in landscape, hardscape, or construction estimating, with management experience

Skills & Knowledge:

• Advanced understanding of construction principles, methods, and estimating best practices.
• Proficiency with estimating software such as Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, LMN, or similar platforms.
• Strong mathematical skills, including geometry and cost analysis.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of landscape and hardscape materials and installation practices.
• Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.

Competencies:

• Leadership: Proven ability to manage and develop a team.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to evaluate complex projects and develop accurate cost estimates.
• Organization: Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Customer Service: Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Decision-Making: Effective judgment to balance profitability, client needs, and project feasibility

Physical Requirements:

• Frequent sitting, standing, and use of computers and office equipment.
• Occasional lifting of objects up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to walk on uneven terrain at job sites.

Working Environment:

• Primarily office-based with some travel to project sites, client meetings, and vendor locations.

Additional Information

• Licenses: Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Pre-employment Requirements: Successful candidates must sign a Confidentiality, Non-disclosure, and Non-solicitation Agreement.
• Working Hours: Standard office hours with flexibility for project demands.

Essential Physical Tasks: Frequently sit for extended periods, stand and walk on uneven surfaces, and may occasionally be required to lift up to 25 lbs without assistance, stoop, kneel, bend to pick up or move objects, office equipment, plants, or tools. Physical ability to push and pull objects weighing up to 50 pounds with assistance; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication.

Base Salary $135,000.00-$165,000 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Dental
• Vision
• Life
• Paid time off