Commercial Estimator

The Commercial Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and profitable estimates for commercial dock and door projects, including loading dock equipment, commercial overhead doors, rolling steel doors, high-speed doors, fire-rated doors, and related installation, replacement, and repair work. This role performs site visits and field measurements, reviews plans and specifications, prepares detailed takeoffs and pricing, and produces professional proposals and bid packages that support the commercial sales team and drive revenue growth.

The Commercial Estimator works closely with sales, operations, and installation teams to ensure that every estimate reflects accurate scope, labor, material, and equipment requirements, and that awarded projects transition smoothly from proposal to execution. Success in this role requires strong technical knowledge of dock and door products, disciplined attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.

Essential functions include but are not limited to the following:

• Prepare accurate and timely estimates for commercial dock and door projects, including new installations, replacements, service and repair work, planned maintenance programs, and construction bid opportunities.
• Conduct site visits and field surveys to gather measurements, assess existing conditions, verify scope, and identify installation requirements, obstructions, or safety considerations that affect pricing.
• Review architectural plans, blueprints, specifications, and bid documents to perform detailed material and labor takeoffs for dock equipment (levelers, seals, shelters, vehicle restraints, lifts) and commercial door systems.
• Obtain and evaluate vendor and supplier quotes for equipment, materials, and subcontracted work; compare pricing, lead times, and specifications to select the best option for each project.
• Develop pricing that meets company margin targets while remaining competitive in the market; apply appropriate labor rates, equipment costs, freight, permits, and contingencies.
• Prepare professional, detailed proposals and quotes in the company's business management system (ServiceTitan) and ensure all estimates are properly documented, saved, and trackable.
• Respond to bid invitations and manage bid submissions, including general contractor bid portals and plan rooms; track bid deadlines and ensure timely, complete submissions.
• Partner with the commercial sales team on scope clarification, customer questions, value engineering options, and proposal revisions to maximize close rates.
• Coordinate with operations and installation teams to confirm labor estimates, installation methods, and scheduling feasibility before proposals are finalized.
• Prepare change order estimates for scope changes on active projects and communicate cost and schedule impacts clearly.
• Conduct post-project reviews comparing estimated versus actual costs to refine future estimating accuracy.
• Maintain current knowledge of product lines, manufacturer pricing, lead times, industry standards (including ANSI and applicable building and fire codes), and market pricing trends.
• Maintain organized records of all estimates, bids, vendor quotes, and supporting documentation.
• Represent the company in a professional and ethical manner at all times.

Skills:

• Strong working knowledge of commercial dock equipment and commercial door systems, or the demonstrated ability to quickly develop deep product knowledge in the industry.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, blueprints, and construction specifications.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills, including takeoffs, unit pricing, labor calculations, and margin analysis.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook); experience with estimating software and field service platforms such as ServiceTitan strongly preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, professional proposals.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent bids and deadlines.
• High attention to detail and accuracy under deadline pressure.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with sales, operations, and installation teams.

QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum 2 years of estimating experience in commercial construction, building products, or a related trade; dock and door, overhead door, or specialty contracting experience strongly preferred.
• Experience performing field measurements and site surveys on commercial and industrial properties.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record required; local travel to customer sites and job sites is a regular part of this role.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, business, or a related field preferred.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen in accordance with applicable law.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to sit for extended periods performing computer-based estimating and proposal work.
• Constant use of computer, phone, and standard office equipment; visual acuity sufficient to read plans, drawings, and specifications.
• Ability to conduct site visits on commercial and industrial properties, including walking on uneven surfaces, navigating active loading dock areas, climbing ladders as needed to take measurements, and working near operating equipment.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds occasionally, such as measuring equipment or sample materials.
• Ability to travel locally to customer sites, job sites, and company locations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Work is performed in a combination of office settings and active commercial, industrial, and construction site environments.
• Site visits may involve exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, dust, moving vehicles, and operating machinery; appropriate personal protective equipment is required when on site.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

ADA / REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION

The company complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws providing for nondiscrimination in employment against qualified individuals with disabilities. Applicants or employees who need an accommodation to participate in the application process or to perform the essential functions of the job should contact Human Resources to request an accommodation.

DISCLAIMER

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee, and duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• estimating in construction or related trade: 2 years (Required)
• reading and interpreting architectural drawings: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• driver's license (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $55,000 - $65,000