What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Estimator position at Unified Door and Hardware Group?
About Us
Company Overview
Unified Door & Hardware Group (UDHG) is a premier provider of commercial door, frame, and architectural hardware solutions serving customers across North America. UDHG supports a wide range of construction and architectural projects, delivering specialized expertise, professional installation, and reliable service to commercial, institutional, and multi-family markets.
As part of Foundation Building Materials (FBM), a leading construction materials distribution company, UDHG operates within a broader organization that combines scale, specialty expertise, and a customer-first mindset. Together, FBM and UDHG’s 8,000 team members are committed to operational excellence, innovation, and employee development. Following the recent acquisition of FBM by Lowe’s, the organization continues to invest in strong, forward-thinking talent to support national growth, enhance customer experience, and drive long-term success across both businesses.
Overview
Position Overview
At Unified Door & Hardware Group (UDHG), Senior Estimators play a critical role in winning work and driving success. Leading the pricing of complex and high-value projects, they apply expert judgment to analyze plans, specifications, and scopes for hollow metal, wood doors, hardware, and specialties. Their insight shapes competitive bids and strengthens UDHG’s position in the market. This isn’t just about numbers, it’s a strategic role with lasting impact and a clear path for growth.
Responsibilities and Qualifications
Key Responsibilities Strategic Estimating & Pricing Leadership- Develop and own pricing strategies for complex, high-value projects, including final bid recommendations and margin optimization
- Evaluate project viability, risk exposure, and alignment with company objectives using independent judgment
- Establish pricing approaches that balance competitiveness with profitability and market conditions
- Provide strategic guidance to sales and leadership on bid/no-bid decisions
- Apply advanced judgment to interpret plans, specifications, and ambiguous project requirements, determining appropriate solutions and pricing methodologies
- Identify and resolve complex scope gaps, conflicts, and code compliance issues with minimal oversight
- Recommend deviations, substitutions, and value engineering solutions that impact project cost and performance
- Advise on contract terms, risk allocation, and commercial conditions, escalating only highly unusual or high-risk matters
- Lead negotiation strategies for pricing, scope, and commercial terms with customers and vendors
- Evaluate contractual risk and financial exposure, recommending acceptance, modification, or rejection of project opportunities
- Directly influence revenue generation, gross margin, and overall project profitability
- Develop and manage vendor relationships to secure competitive pricing and favorable terms
- Evaluate vendor proposals and determine optimal sourcing strategies
- Negotiate pricing and supply conditions that influence project success and organizational profitability
- Serve as a subject matter expert and advisor to sales, operations, and leadership teams
- Influence business strategy through insights on market trends, pricing dynamics, and competitive positioning
- Mentor junior estimators and contribute to process improvements and best practices
- Oversee the integrity and accuracy of estimates, ensuring alignment with company standards while exercising independent judgment
- Maintain accountability for estimate documentation, assumptions, and financial outcomes
- Perform other duties as assigned to support estimating and corporate objectives
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 5 years of progressive estimating experience with demonstrated ownership of complex project pricing and financial outcomes
- Proven ability to exercise independent judgment and make decisions impacting revenue and profitability
- Strong understanding of contracts, risk management, and commercial construction practices
- Demonstrated leadership, negotiation, and strategic thinking capabilities
Compensation and Benefits
Reports ToRegional Estimating Director CompensationThe listed pay range reflects the expected base rate for this position. Within the range, individual pay may vary based on experience, qualifications, and work location within state.This is a full-time position with competitive pay and benefits.BenefitsAt UDHG, we’re committed to supporting our employees both personally and professionally. We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to help you thrive inside and outside of work. Our excellent package includes:
- Medical, Dental and Vision plans with leading national providers
- Health Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Company Provided Basic Life and Accident Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
- Voluntary Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
- Critical illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Coverage
- Legal Insurance Plan
- Paid Time Off (PTO) & Paid Company Holidays
- 401(k) plan with generous company match
Statements
Equal Opportunity Employer
Unified Door & Hardware Group, a Foundation Building Materials company, is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, including those with disabilities. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws, we ensure reasonable accommodations are provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require an accommodation during the application process or while employed, please contact Human Resources for assistance. Unified Door & Hardware Group, a Foundation Building Materials company, is an Equal opportunity Employer. We value diversity and inclusion and are dedicated to creating a workplace where all employees feel respected and empowered. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability status, genetics, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Posting Period
This job will be posted for at least 5 days, starting on the initial post date reflected above.