Chief Estimator - Commercial Construction - Houston

About the role

We are partnered with a highly respected, family-owned general contractor with a strong reputation throughout the Houston market. Specializing in commercial, municipal, aviation, public-sector, and institutional construction, this organization has built long-standing client relationships and maintains a healthy backlog of complex projects across the region. Due to continued growth, the company is seeking an experienced estimating leader who can independently lead pursuit efforts, drive bid strategy, and oversee the estimating function with minimal oversight. This is a highly visible leadership opportunity for someone looking to make a meaningful impact on the future growth and success of an established contractor.

The OpportunityOur client is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead preconstruction and estimating efforts across a diverse portfolio of commercial construction projects. This individual will be responsible for managing the entire estimating process, developing bid strategies, reviewing project risks, and ensuring accurate, competitive proposals. Beyond managing bids, this person will serve as the department leader, providing mentorship and guidance to existing estimating staff while helping establish processes, best practices, and long-term growth initiatives. The ideal candidate combines strong technical estimating expertise with proven leadership skills and the ability to operate autonomously in a fast-paced commercial construction environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead all estimating and preconstruction activities from project pursuit through bid submission.
• Review plans, specifications, and contract documents to develop accurate conceptual and detailed estimates.
• Prepare quantity takeoffs, pricing strategies, and comprehensive bid proposals.
• Lead bid reviews and collaborate with operations leadership on project pursuit decisions.
• Evaluate project risks, value engineering opportunities, and constructability considerations.
• Develop and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, owners, architects, and consultants.
• Solicit, analyze, and level subcontractor and supplier pricing.
• Establish and maintain estimating standards, processes, and best practices.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and oversight to estimating team members.
• Partner with operations and project management teams to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction to project execution.
• Support business development efforts by participating in client presentations, interviews, and proposal development.

Requirements

• 10+ years of commercial construction estimating experience.
• Proven ability to independently lead complex commercial bids from concept through award.
• Experience estimating ground-up and renovation projects across a variety of commercial sectors.
• Previous leadership experience managing or mentoring estimators is highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of conceptual estimating, hard bids, negotiated work, budgeting, and preconstruction services.
• Public-sector, municipal, aviation, educational, healthcare, or institutional experience is a plus.
• Ability to analyze plans and specifications while identifying project risks and opportunities.
• Strong subcontractor relationships within the Houston market preferred.
• Excellent communication, leadership, negotiation, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with industry estimating software and construction management technology.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred.

Pay

Competitive base salary with performance-based bonus opportunities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Long-term career advancement with a growing and highly respected contractor.