Labor Cost Estimator

About the role

Empire & Co. is the largest commercial furniture dealer in the world, with over 80 years of industry experience and more than 565 full-time employees nationwide. As the preeminent Steelcase dealer in the United States, we support a network of over 500 manufacturers. We partner with leading architects, designers, brokers, craftsmen, and manufacturers to deliver innovative, high-performing workspace solutions that solve business challenges and activate brands.

Position Overview

Empire & Co. is seeking an experienced Labor Cost Estimator to join our team in Secaucus, NJ. In this role, you will be responsible for developing accurate labor estimates and budgets for the delivery and installation of commercial furniture systems, architectural walls, and ancillary products. Working closely with Project Managers, Scheduling, Operations, and Installation teams, you will help ensure projects are appropriately staffed, completed on schedule, and delivered within budget.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare labor estimates and budgets for commercial furniture delivery and installation projects.
• Review project drawings, specifications, and furniture plans to determine labor requirements.
• Estimate labor for furniture systems, architectural walls, ancillary furniture, and related products.
• Develop labor schedules and staffing plans based on project scope and timelines.
• Collaborate with Project Managers, Scheduling, and Operations to ensure projects remain on schedule and within budget.
• Participate in job site walkthroughs and pre-installation meetings to evaluate project requirements.
• Maintain accurate estimating documentation and support continuous process improvements.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams, installation crews, and external partners throughout the project lifecycle.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in labor estimating, commercial furniture, project management, logistics, or a related field.
• Experience estimating labor for commercial furniture installations; Steelcase experience strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of multiple commercial furniture manufacturers and installation methods.
• Ability to read and interpret furniture plans, installation drawings, Bills of Lading (BOLs), and installation worksheets.
• Strong understanding of project scheduling, labor forecasting, and budget management.
• Experience with Hedberg, Procore, or similar project management software is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, including intermediate Excel skills.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Willingness to travel locally to project sites as needed.