What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Estimator - GC position at ZARRELLCO?
Chief Estimator - Commercial Construction GC
Location: Charlotte, NC
Salary: $140,000-$180,000 Base Bonus
We are partnering with an established general contractor in Charlotte seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead its estimating efforts across a diverse portfolio of ground-up commercial construction projects. This is a key leadership position for an estimator who is comfortable managing competitive hard bids as well as negotiated work across multiple project types.
Responsibilities
Lead the estimating and preconstruction process from initial bid through final proposal
Prepare and manage competitive hard bids, conceptual estimates, budgets, and detailed cost estimates
Estimate projects across retail, commercial, multifamily, and other ground-up construction sectors
Review drawings, specifications, scopes, and bid documents for accuracy and completeness
Develop subcontractor bid lists and manage subcontractor/vendor outreach
Perform bid leveling, scope analysis, quantity takeoffs, and pricing reviews
Identify project risks, value-engineering opportunities, and potential cost savings
Work closely with project executives, project managers, field teams, and company leadership
Maintain strong relationships with subcontractors and vendors throughout the Charlotte market
Help establish and improve estimating processes, procedures, and best practices
Qualifications
Significant estimating experience with a commercial general contractor, over 5 years.
Strong experience with hard-bid construction projects
Experience estimating ground-up retail, commercial, multifamily, or similar projects
Thorough understanding of construction costs, scopes, drawings, and specifications
Strong subcontractor relationships and knowledge of the local construction market
Excellent organizational, analytical, communication, and leadership skills
Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously
Compensation & Benefits
$140,000-$180,000 base salary
Annual bonus opportunity
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
401(k) with company match
Paid time off
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced estimator looking to step into a Chief Estimator leadership role with a growing contractor and oversee a diverse pipeline of commercial construction projects throughout the Charlotte market.
Salary : $140,000 - $180,000