Estimator - Commercial Construction (Preconstruction)
AlphaHire · Richmond
We are seeking a hands-on Commercial Construction Estimator to develop accurate, competitive bids for commercial building projects, including renovations, tenant improvements, interior build-outs, and ground-up construction. The ideal candidate has strong technical estimating skills, experience preparing complete bid packages, and the ability to manage multiple estimates while meeting demanding deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop project budgets and detailed cost estimates for commercial construction projects.
- Review architectural, structural, and MEP drawings, specifications, and contract documents to determine project scope and pricing requirements.
- Perform quantity takeoffs and calculate labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
- Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier bids, compare proposals, and identify scope gaps and pricing discrepancies.
- Prepare complete bid submissions with detailed cost breakdowns, assumptions, exclusions, and scope definitions.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities, constructability concerns, scheduling constraints, and procurement risks during preconstruction.
- Coordinate with project managers, field supervisors, designers, and trade partners to validate estimates and resolve discrepancies.
- Track labor rates, material costs, subcontractor pricing, and market trends to maintain accurate and competitive estimates.
- Attend site visits, pre-bid meetings, and client discussions to clarify project requirements.
- Maintain organized bid records, cost databases, and historical pricing information.
- Transition awarded projects to the operations team, communicating budgets, scope details, and estimating assumptions.
Requirements
- 5+ years of commercial construction estimating experience, preferably with a general contractor.
- Experience estimating commercial renovations, tenant improvements, interior build-outs, and/or ground-up construction.
- Strong understanding of construction costs, labor productivity, material pricing, and subcontractor costs.
- Ability to interpret architectural, structural, and MEP drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
- Hands-on experience with quantity takeoffs, subcontractor bid solicitation, proposal leveling, and final estimate preparation.
- Ability to identify scope omissions, pricing inconsistencies, and trade overlaps.
- Proficiency with construction estimating software; Bluebeam Revu experience preferred.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and time-management skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
- Demonstrated ability to personally prepare estimates and complete bid submissions rather than solely oversee the estimating process.
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Health insurance options.
- Retirement plan options.
- Paid time off.
- Additional company-sponsored benefits.
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