What are the responsibilities and job description for the QS Estimator position at Real Estate company?
About the Role
The QS Estimator is responsible for cost management across real estate developments—from feasibility through closeout—ensuring projects meet budget, quality, and regulatory standards. The role combines both pre-construction estimating and ongoing cost control.
Core Responsibilities
Cost Estimation & Budgeting
- Analyze architectural and engineering plans to prepare detailed material, labor, and sub-contractor cost estimates.
- Preparing detailed rate analysis
- Estimating and deriving productivity for activities
- Conduct feasibility studies, perform risk assessments, and support financial decision-making for real estate projects.
Tendering & Procurement
- Prepare Bill of Quantities, tender documents, and evaluate bids.
- Coordinating with Procurement team for bid evaluation and identifying scope gaps
- Negotiate contract terms with vendors and subcontractors to optimize value and minimize risk.
Cost Control & Contract Management
- Monitor project expenses, track variations, and manage change orders.
- Sub-contractors’ invoice checking and certification
- Generate regular progress and cost forecast reports for stakeholders.
- Administer contracts, certify payments for completed work, and resolve cost disputes.
Value Engineering & Risk Management
- Identify commercial risks and opportunities for cost savings or quality improvements.
- Recommend materials or design modifications to enhance value.
Compliance & Reporting
- Ensure adherence to local building codes, contracts, and safety regulations.
- Maintain accurate documentation of quantities, financials, contracts, and change logs.
Qualifications & Skills
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying, Construction Management or Civil Engineering
- Experience: Minimum 5 years in real estate/construction cost estimator &/or quantity surveying preferably in commercial or residential developments.
- Technical Proficiency: Strong analytical/math skills and proficiency with estimating tools/software (e.g., Bluebeam, Procore, Excel).
- Ability to interpret construction drawings and engineering documents accurately.
- Core Competencies: Excellent negotiation, interpersonal, and communication skills.
- Detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- Certifications (Preferred): MRICS, MCIOB, CQS, AACE, or relevant U.S. equivalents.
- Miscellaneous: Valid driver’s license to conduct regular and frequent site visits and travel within North Texas.
Ideal Candidate Traits
- Self-starter with ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Strong commercial awareness and problem-solving mindset
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced development environment
- Commitment to accuracy, transparency, and ethical contract management
What We Offer
- Competitive salary aligned with Plano/Dallas–Fort Worth market
- Opportunity to play a key role in high-profile real estate developments
Career-growth potential within a dynamic project team