Estimator

About the role

The Estimator is responsible for leading the preconstruction budgeting process from conceptual design through final construction pricing. This role ensures homeowners and the design team have accurate, reliable cost information to make informed decisions, identify risks early, and move projects into construction with confidence. Success in this role is measured by the accuracy of budgets, the completeness of project scope, the quality of subcontractor pricing, and the seamless transfer of information to the production team. The Estimator serves as a critical bridge between design and construction, helping ensure projects are financially viable, competitively priced, and fully prepared for successful execution.

Responsibilities

• Preconstruction Budgeting & Cost Modeling – Develop accurate conceptual, schematic, and final construction budgets that align with the evolving design and project goals.
  • Budgets provide homeowners with reliable cost expectations throughout design.
  • Budget variances between estimate and actual construction costs are minimized.
  • Design decisions are informed by real-time cost feedback.
  • Clients feel confident making decisions based on transparent pricing.
  • Estimates are delivered on schedule and support project milestones.
• Design Gap Identification & Risk Mitigation – Review plans, specifications, and project requirements to identify missing information, constructability concerns, and potential cost risks before construction begins.
  • Scope gaps are identified and resolved prior to contract execution.
  • Potential budget overruns, scheduling conflicts, and field issues are proactively addressed.
  • Design and production teams receive timely feedback that improves project readiness.
  • Fewer unforeseen conditions and change orders occur during construction.
  • Projects enter production with a clear understanding of risks and mitigation strategies.
• Trade Scoping & Bid Leveling – Develop comprehensive scopes of work, solicit competitive subcontractor proposals, and perform bid analysis to ensure complete and accurate pricing.
  • Subcontractor bids are complete, competitive, and aligned with project requirements.
  • Scope coverage is comprehensive with minimal overlap or exclusions.
  • Bid comparisons are organized and clearly communicated.
  • Strong relationships are maintained with qualified trade partners.
  • Project teams receive reliable pricing that supports profitable project delivery.
• Historical Cost Data, Pricing Accuracy & Competitiveness – Maintain and continuously improve the company's cost database, labor assumptions, production rates, and estimating