Estimator (Construction)

About the role

Southern California-based commercial construction and development company Howard CDM is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Estimator to join our growing team. The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for commercial construction projects from preliminary concepts through completed construction documents. This position evaluates project scope, performs quantity takeoffs, develops labor and material pricing, solicits and analyzes subcontractor proposals, and supports the overall bidding and preconstruction process. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of commercial construction, can effectively interpret drawings and specifications, and is comfortable managing multiple estimates and deadlines. This position requires knowledge of current market conditions, subcontractor pricing, construction methods, and the ability to identify scope gaps, cost considerations, and value-engineering opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare cost estimates from preliminary information through completed construction documents, including conceptual, schematic design, design development, and construction document estimates.
• Review and interpret construction drawings, specifications, addenda, project manuals, and other bid documents to develop a thorough understanding of the scope of work.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for materials, labor, equipment, and other project requirements.
• Develop labor and material pricing using current market rates, supplier pricing, subcontractor input, and historical cost information.
• Prepare estimates for preconstruction, hard bids, negotiated bids, design-build projects, budgets, general conditions, general requirements, and value-engineering exercises.
• Prepare and maintain estimates using company estimating software and established estimating procedures.
• Develop detailed scope sheets and control estimates for assigned trades.
• Evaluate project scope for completeness and identify potential scope gaps, constructability concerns, and cost impacts.
• Identify and evaluate value-engineering opportunities and alternative construction methods or materials.
• Maintain an understanding of current market conditions and their impact on labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing.
• Attend job walks, site visits, pre-bid meetings, and other project meetings as required.
• Prepare RFIs and coordinate estimating questions with the appropriate project stakeholders.
• Support bid-day activities, including final pricing, scope review, subcontractor follow-up, and estimate reconciliation.
• Follow up on submitted bids and budgets as appropriate through project award.
• Develop lists of qualified subcontractors and vendors appropriate for the size and scope of each project.
• Solicit subcontractor and supplier participation and pricing for active bid opportunities.
• Prepare and distribute bid invitations and subcontractor bid packages, including