Estimator/Project Manager

About the role

The Estimator plays a critical role in the success of restoration projects by assessing losses, preparing accurate and detailed estimates, coordinating with insurance carriers and customers, and managing project scope from initial opportunity through completion. This position is responsible for delivering excellent customer service, maintaining strong vendor and subcontractor relationships, and ensuring projects meet quality, profitability, and operational objectives.

Responsibilities

• Screens and pre‑qualifies potential jobs
• Makes initial contact with the insured and the adjuster
• Works up and finalizes job scopes with adjusters and clients
• Leads production and collaborates with leadership to complete all projects
• Completes an accurate estimate with listings of all items required to complete the repair work
• Drafts and submits initial invoicing and cooperates with accounting on collection efforts
• Reviews completed files for profitability and accuracy of the original scope of work
• Recruits, establishes rapport and contracts with specialized subcontractors
• Provides quick and accurate responses to adjusters, agent property managers, tenants and other concerned parties
• Maintains constant professional communication with customers and vendors
• Manages details of multiple projects in an organized and efficient manner
• Attends all Company meetings and functions required of the position, including weekly production and monthly Estimator meetings
• Attends and suggests professional trainings as appropriate for the position
• Leads an on‑call emergency response team on a rotating basis and serves as first point of contact for customers
• Demonstrates a positive image of the Company to staff and clients
• Implements best practices to aid the Company in meeting its vision and mission and in achieving Company goals
• Holds responsibility for project outcomes and issues
• Assists in problem solving and motivating team members to improve Company efficiencies
• Respects and maintains the confidentiality of company, client and personnel information
• Performs other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Ability to communicate and coordinate with the team for timely job completion
• Write accurate estimates for projects and scopes of work
• Manage multiple projects while paying attention to detail
• Manage projects to consistently achieve gross‑margin targets
• Provide exemplary customer service to clients, employees and vendors
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships; gain cooperation through discussion and persuasion
• Make progress toward the Company vision
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; proficient in reading and writing English
• Apply general mathematical and data‑entry skills
• Apply established Company policies and procedures, including safety procedures and principles
• Knowledge of modern office practices and technology, including Microsoft Office, Outlook, copiers, telephone, etc.
• Appropriate phone skills and resolution of customer complaints and issues
• Proficiency with industry software: Xactimate, Docusketch, Matterport, PSA, and similar programs
• Professional ethics; correct English usage, spelling, grammar, punctuation; basic mathematics
• Understanding of restoration‑industry language, practices, and terminology; ability to seek out knowledge if new to the industry
• Proper pricing and estimating of material needs and costs for projects
• Familiarity with estimating software and related programs required for the position
• Knowledge of company budgets, expenses, business plans and sales goals
• Awareness of pertinent federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations governing the position

Minimum Qualifications

• Trade background or construction knowledge
• Restoration experience
• Four‑year degree
• Business experience
• Willingness to train the right person

Licenses/Certificates

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid Wisconsin state driver’s license.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle and to visit various customers and meeting sites
• Accurate vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
• Ability to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone
• Finger dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, writing implements, office equipment and calculator
• Ability to stand, squat, climb, bend, kneel, stoop, walk, push, pull, crouch and crawl for long periods of time
• Ability to travel up and down ladders
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects, from 50–100 lb., necessary to perform job functions
• Ability to work in high and/or tight places

Technology and Software

• Industry software: Xactimate, Docusketch, Matterport, PSA, and other similar programs
• Microsoft Office, Outlook, copiers, telephone, and related office technology