Estimator Level II / III

Semper Tek Inc. is seeking an experienced Estimator Level II / III to join our preconstruction team in Lexington, KY. This role focuses on developing accurate direct-cost estimates for single-discipline and multidiscipline construction projects, supporting projects from the initial bid phase through award and post-construction review.

About the role

This is a full-time, in-office position in Lexington, KY. Remote work is not available. The role involves travel and jobsite visits as needed, with a focus on federal, state, and commercial construction projects.

Responsibilities

• Receive, organize, and distribute design documents to internal team members, subcontractors, and vendors.
• Thoroughly review drawings, specifications, and other project documents to understand the complete scope of work.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs, cost analyses, estimates, and studies for assigned trades and building systems.
• Solicit subcontractor and vendor pricing and coordinate bid lists for budgets and competitive bids.
• Develop and maintain relationships with qualified subcontractors, vendors, and potential teaming partners.
• Prepare and submit Requests for Information (RFIs) to owner representatives when clarification is needed.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and subcontractor walkthroughs.
• Evaluate existing site conditions and identify potential scope not clearly represented within the design documents.
• Prepare subcontractor bid proposal forms and bid recording sheets.
• Analyze subcontractor and vendor proposals for completeness, exclusions, exceptions, and overall scope coverage.
• Identify potential scope gaps and overlaps before finalizing estimates.
• Ensure estimates reflect accurate and current pricing information, subcontractor bids, and established budgets.
• Incorporate detailed General Conditions into project estimates.
• Provide pricing for value engineering, alternates, options, and special studies.
• Support preparation and assembly of Lump Sum, Time & Material (T&M), and Not-to-Exceed (NTE) bids.
• Assist with establishing self-performance budgets and direct project costs.
• Coordinate operational input throughout the estimating, bidding, and budget-development process.
• Review project activities and durations for preconstruction schedules.
• Prepare vendor reviews and assessment reports.
• Support the transition of estimating information to project operations.
• Assist with estimating and pricing project change orders as needed.
• Participate in project postmortem reviews to compare estimated versus actual performance.
• Evaluate subcontractor and vendor performance.
• Recommend modifications to approved vendor lists based on project outcomes and performance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field, or equivalent construction operations experience.
• Strong knowledge of building construction, materials, systems, market conditions, and trade practices.
• Ability to thoroughly interpret estimating documents and provide accurate qualitative and quantitative analysis.
• Experience performing detailed construction quantity takeoffs and developing cost estimates.
• Strong understanding of subcontractor and vendor bid evaluation.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates, deadlines, and priorities simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive in identifying and solving problems.
• Strong analytical and reporting capabilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365, particularly Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to work independently and maintain accuracy under strict bid deadlines.
• Ability to work full-time from the Lexington office.
• Valid Driver’s License.

Preferred Qualifications

• 7+ years of related construction experience, including at least 5 years of estimating experience.
• Experience bidding federal and state-issued solicitations.
• Proficiency with Sage Estimating (formerly Timberline).
• Experience with construction management software such as Procore and ERP/accounting platforms.
• Proficiency with construction takeoff and estimating software.
• Experience with Primavera P6 and schedule logic.
• Working knowledge of RSMeans for estimate development and takeoffs.
• Experience developing and evaluating self-perform estimates.
• Experience qualifying subcontractors, vendors, and teaming partners.
• Technical writing capabilities.
• OSHA 30 Certification.
• First Aid/CPR Certification.

Professional & Physical Requirements

• Ability to learn new processes and work independently with limited supervision.
• Strong reading comprehension and ability to follow complex written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal teams, subcontractors, vendors, owners, and other project stakeholders.
• Ability to perform effectively in deadline-driven environments.
• Regular attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to assess work for accuracy, completeness, and attention to detail.
• Ability to travel to construction sites and safely navigate active work areas when required.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders and utilize construction personnel hoists when necessary.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to properly utilize required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when visiting active construction sites.

Pay

Starting at $140,000 per year, based on experience.

Schedule

Monday–Friday | 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Some weekend work may be required)

Benefits

• Performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Retirement Savings Program.
• Health Savings Account (HSA).
• Paid Time Off.
• Paid training and professional certifications.
• Professional development and mentorship opportunities.

About Us

Semper Tek Inc. is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) committed to delivering high-quality construction projects on time and within budget. Our team supports complex projects through disciplined planning, accurate estimating, proactive problem-solving, and a commitment to serving our government and commercial partners with integrity.