What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Estimator position at Paul Hemmer Company?
ABOUT THE COMPANY
For over 100 years, owners and developers of medical, distribution, manufacturing, office, and retail properties throughout the region have come to know and trust Paul Hemmer Company (“Hemmer”) as a provider of complete, single-source design and construction services. Hemmer also provides building care and maintenance services and engages in select real estate development opportunities.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Senior Estimator plays a critical role within Hemmer Construction Company’s preconstruction team. This position is responsible for leading complex estimating efforts, developing accurate and competitive project budgets, and collaborating closely with internal teams, subcontractors, and clients. The Senior Estimator also supports continuous improvement initiatives and mentors junior estimating staff to ensure consistency, accuracy, and efficiency across estimating operations.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Preconstruction & Estimating Leadership
• Lead preconstruction and estimating efforts for large-scale, complex, or high-priority commercial construction projects.
• Develop detailed conceptual, schematic, design development, and GMP estimates.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and project documents to prepare comprehensive and accurate cost estimates.
• Identify project risks, assumptions, and contingencies and communicate them clearly to stakeholders.
2. Subcontractor & Supplier Coordination
• Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and supplier bids for scope completeness and pricing accuracy.
• Coordinate bid leveling and ensure alignment with project scope and schedule.
• Develop strong working relationships with trade partners and suppliers.
3. Client & Internal Collaboration
• Collaborate with project management, operations, architects, engineers, and consultants to define scope and pricing strategies.
• Present estimates, budgets, and value engineering options to clients and executive leadership.
• Support business development efforts by assisting with pricing strategies and proposal development.
4. Value Engineering & Cost Control
• Develop value engineering options and cost-saving recommendations while maintaining quality and performance.
• Utilize historical cost data and market trends to enhance estimate accuracy.
• Participate in post-bid and post-project reviews to evaluate estimating performance and identify improvement opportunities.
5. Leadership & Mentorship
• Mentor and support junior estimators and preconstruction team members.
• Assist leadership with developing and maintaining standardized estimating procedures and best practices.
• Promote collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within the estimating team.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• 7 years of experience in commercial construction estimating, including experience leading complex projects.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and cost drivers.
• Proficiency with estimating software, digital takeoff tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
KEY COMPETENCIES
• Advanced estimating and cost analysis expertise.
• Strong leadership and mentorship capabilities.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients, trade partners, and executive leadership.