What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator - RCLP position at Ratcliff Companies?
Commercial Construction Estimator
Addison, TX | Ratcliff Constructors, LP (RCLP)
Build More Than Estimates. Build Relationships. Build Your Future.
Are you an experienced commercial construction estimator who thrives on solving complex challenges, thinking strategically, and making a meaningful impact?
Do you want to be part of a company where your expertise is valued, your voice is heard, and your contributions directly influence project success?
If so, Ratcliff Constructors, LP is looking for an Estimator to join our growing team in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Who is Ratcliff?
Ratcliff isn't just another construction company. We're a legacy nearly a century in the making.
For almost 100 years, the Ratcliff name has been synonymous with quality construction, strong relationships, and a commitment to doing things the right way. At Ratcliff, we believe that successful projects start long before construction begins. They start with planning, collaboration, and a team of professionals who are passionate about excellence.
We live by our core values:
- Safety
- Teamwork
- Integrity
- Excellence
- Family Oriented
And we believe that:
"Through great relationships, we build great things!"
Position Summary
The Estimator plays a critical role in the pursuit, planning, and successful execution of commercial construction projects. This position is responsible for managing the estimating process from initial concept through project handoff while developing competitive, accurate, and strategic estimates that help drive company growth.
The ideal candidate is organized, proactive, detail-oriented, and capable of evaluating project risks, identifying opportunities, and developing reliable cost projections throughout all phases of preconstruction.
Unlike many estimating roles, our Estimators remain involved after project award, partnering with operations teams to support project success from preconstruction through completion.
What You'll Do
Estimating & Preconstruction Responsibilities:
- Prepare conceptual, schematic, budgetary, and detailed project estimates.
- Analyze drawings, specifications, and project documents to determine scope requirements and project risks.
- Develop estimates for general conditions and self-performed scopes of work.
- Manage negotiated and hard-bid estimating efforts.
- Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier proposals.
- Verify scope coverage, inclusions, exclusions, and pricing accuracy.
- Prepare professional proposals, presentations, and estimate deliverables for both internal and external stakeholders.
- Conduct complete project scope analysis and identify value engineering opportunities.
- Support bid day activities and estimate finalization.
- Assist in developing subcontract agreements, purchase orders, and contract reviews.
- Maintain estimating databases and historical cost information.
Project Support & Relationship Management
- Collaborate with project management and operations teams during project turnover and throughout project execution.
- Assist with planning, scheduling, budgeting, and issue resolution as projects evolve.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and industry partners.
- Represent Ratcliff professionally in client meetings and project pursuits.
- Contribute to expanding Ratcliff's network and long-term business relationships.
What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications
- 2-5 years of commercial construction estimating experience.
- Demonstrated success estimating commercial construction projects valued at $5M .
- Strong understanding of construction means, methods, materials, and sequencing.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
- Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively in a deadline-driven environment.
- Strong analytical and critical-thinking abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience estimating projects in the $15M-$50M range.
- Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field.
- Experience with CMiC, Procore, On-Screen Takeoff, Microsoft Project, or similar construction software.
- Experience reviewing owner contracts, writing purchase orders, and preparing subcontract agreements.
- Established relationships within the DFW commercial construction market.
Why Ratcliff?
At Ratcliff, you're more than a number. You'll join a team that values collaboration, supports professional growth, and recognizes the contributions of every employee.
We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package including:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Company-Paid Life Insurance
- Disability Insurance
- 401(k) with Company Match
- Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
- Paid Maternity Leave
- Professional Development Opportunities
- Family-Oriented Culture
- Opportunities for Long-Term Career Growth
If you're looking for a company where your experience matters, your work makes a difference, and your career can continue to grow, we'd love to hear from you.
Ratcliff Constructors, LP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
EOE/Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran