What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator position at Ram Construction Services of Michigan INC?
Company Summary:
Since 1918, RAM Construction Services has stood as the oldest and most experienced waterproofing and restoration contractor in the United States. With over a century of expertise, we understand the unique demands of every project and collaborate closely with architects, engineers, and general contractors to ensure the right materials and techniques are applied with precision.
Our team comprises highly skilled professionals who are deeply valued and committed to excellence. At the heart of our operations are our core values, which guide every decision and interaction:
- Relationships are our business – We build trust through transparency, respect, and long-term partnerships.
- Safety without compromise – We prioritize the well-being of our people and projects above all else.
- Unapologetically competitive – We strive to outperform, innovate, and lead in every aspect of our work.
- 360 Accountability – We take full ownership of our responsibilities, outcomes, and commitments.
- Embrace Collaboration – We believe the best solutions come from working together across disciplines and perspectives.
Compensation Highlights:
- Competitive base salary commensurate with experience, with annual performance‑based bonus opportunities
- Company‑issued credit card and fuel card for approved business‑related expenses
- $800/Monthly Vehicle allowance to support field mobility and operational needs
- Company‑provided cell phone and tablet to ensure seamless communication and accessibility
- $300 Annual apparel allowance for branded workwear
Employee Benefits:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contributions
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and paid company holidays
- Company‑paid life insurance
- Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage
Job Summary
The Restoration Estimator is responsible for generating and securing restoration project opportunities through a combination of business development, client relationship management, sales activities, and estimating functions. This role plays a critical part in supporting the growth of the restoration division by identifying new business opportunities, maintaining strong customer relationships, and developing accurate, competitive project estimates.
The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in sales, business development, and commercial restoration estimating, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with property managers, consultants, engineers, architects, building owners, facility managers, and general contractors. This individual must be proactive in networking, prospecting, and developing opportunities that result in profitable projects and long-term client partnerships.
Success in this position requires strong communication and relationship-building skills, construction industry knowledge, estimating experience, and a proven ability to drive revenue growth. The Restoration Estimator serves as a key liaison between customers, operations, and project teams, helping ensure a seamless transition from project pursuit and estimating through project execution while contributing to the continued expansion of RAM Construction Services' restoration operations.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Business Development & Sales
- Develop and execute strategic business development and sales plans to drive revenue growth and expand market share.
- Identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities within the commercial restoration marketplace.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with property managers, consultants, engineers, architects, building owners, facility managers, general contractors, and key industry contacts.
- Actively prospect for new clients through networking, industry associations, trade shows, cold calling, client visits, referrals, and other business development activities.
- Conduct customer meetings, jobsite visits, and project assessments to identify customer needs and potential project opportunities.
- Prepare and deliver professional sales presentations, proposals, and capability statements to prospective and existing clients.
- Develop and implement account management strategies to strengthen customer relationships and increase repeat business.
- Generate and maintain a robust sales pipeline and consistently meet business development goals and revenue targets.
- Monitor market conditions, competitive activity, industry trends, and upcoming project opportunities.
- Collaborate with operational leaders to develop growth strategies and expand RAM's presence within targeted markets.
- Maintain accurate records of business development activities, sales opportunities, client interactions, and forecasting efforts.
- Represent RAM Construction Services at industry events, networking functions, trade organizations, and customer appreciation events.
Estimating Responsibilities
- Review project plans, specifications, bid documents, and scope information to develop accurate and competitive cost estimates.
- Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and analyze labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and vendor costs.
- Collaborate with clients, subcontractors, vendors, and project teams to ensure a complete understanding of project requirements and scope.
- Evaluate project risks and develop appropriate contingencies to support profitable project execution.
- Prepare, review, and present project estimates, budgets, and proposals to management and clients.
- Negotiate pricing and scope with subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors.
- Monitor labor rates, material costs, and market trends to ensure estimates remain competitive and current.
- Maintain organized and accurate estimating files, documentation, and project records.
- Assist with the development and continuous improvement of estimating standards, procedures, and best practices.
Client Relations & Project Support
- Serve as the primary customer contact throughout the sales, estimating, and preconstruction phases of a project.
- Respond promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and requests.
- Support project teams by assisting with scope clarification, customer communication, and project transitions from sales to operations.
- Participate in project meetings and customer reviews as needed.
- Assist with customer retention efforts and support collection activities through the development of strong client relationships.
- Promote a positive customer experience and maintain RAM's reputation for quality, professionalism, and service excellence.
Education & Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in construction management, business marketing, or a related field preferred
- Minimum 5 years of estimating experience within commercial restoration, concrete repair, or related construction fields
- Previous business development, sales, or client relationship management experience preferred
- Proven ability to develop and maintain customer relationships resulting in revenue growth
- Working knowledge of construction methods, materials, and industry best practices
- Proficiency in construction estimating software
- Ability to read, interpret, and analyze construction drawings, blueprints, and specifications
- Experience in budgeting, scheduling, and controlling project costs
- Strong negotiation and conflict‑resolution skills
- High level of familiarity with contract and subcontract documents, terms, and conditions
- Strong analytical and mathematical skills with a demonstrated problem‑solving ability
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suites
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Physical Requirements
- Ability to walk active construction sites and perform site inspections.
- Ability to climb ladders and access roofs, scaffolding, and other elevated work areas as required.
- Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to travel between job sites, customer locations, and RAM offices.
Travel
- Travel to and from job sites is required. RAM Construction Services will reimburse eligible business‑related travel expenses in accordance with company policy.
Work Environment
- This position involves a combination of office work, client-facing activities, and visits to active construction jobsites. The employee may be exposed to varying weather conditions, noise levels, and typical construction site environments.
- Regular local travel with occasional overnight travel as business needs require.
Unsolicited Resumes from Third-Party Recruiters: We do not accept unsolicited referrals from third-party recruiters unless they are engaged and under contract to provide candidates for a specific opening. Any unsolicited resumes submitted without prior agreement will be considered the property of RAM Construction Services, and we reserve the right to engage at our sole discretion, with no obligations or fees owed.
Equal Employment Opportunity Policy: RAM Construction Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Salary : $300