Project Estimator
Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking an experienced Project Estimator to join a nationally recognized commercial construction management and general contracting firm specializing in federal, healthcare, education, industrial, and other complex non-residential projects for government and commercial clients. This is a fully onsite position in Greensboro, NC, with the ability to travel to client sites as needed.
About the role
The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates for construction projects. This position reviews project documents, develops budgets and pricing, evaluates subcontractor and supplier proposals, and collaborates with project teams, clients, and design professionals throughout the preconstruction process. The Estimator supports successful project pursuits by producing complete and accurate estimates and facilitating a smooth transition from preconstruction to operations.
Responsibilities
- Prepare conceptual, preliminary, detailed, and Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) estimates by reviewing construction drawings, specifications, bid documents, and project requirements to develop accurate project budgets, GMPs, conceptual cost models, and pricing.
- Perform quantity takeoffs, labor and material pricing, equipment and subcontractor cost analysis, constructability reviews, value engineering, and cost-saving evaluations to deliver accurate, competitive estimates within project deadlines.
- Develop bid packages and scope sheets, solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals, conduct vendor interviews, and support procurement activities to ensure complete, competitive project pricing.
- Analyze project risks, historical cost data, market conditions, and cost impacts while providing recommendations on project feasibility, value engineering opportunities, and pricing strategies.
- Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, architects, engineers, consultants, clients, subcontractors, and suppliers throughout the preconstruction process, including pre-bid meetings, site visits, proposal development, and project turnover to operations.
- Maintain estimating databases, cost histories, subcontractor and vendor relationships, while utilizing estimating software and reporting tools to improve estimate accuracy, bid success rates, productivity, and overall preconstruction processes.
Requirements
- 5+ years of commercial construction estimating experience. Residential-only experience (apartments, high-rises, condominiums, or dormitories) will not be considered.
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Business, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
- CPE, CCP, or similar certification preferred but not required.
- Experience supporting commercial, government, military, education, healthcare, industrial, or other non-residential construction projects.
- Strong knowledge of construction methods, project delivery, quantity takeoffs, conceptual estimating, budgeting, GMP development, cost analysis, value engineering, subcontractor procurement, contracts, and risk management.
- Experience estimating across at least two trades/disciplines (mechanical, electrical, concrete, HVAC/plumbing, facilities, solar, energy, etc.).
- Ability to read construction drawings, specifications, contracts, and technical documents, develop scopes of work, and manage multiple estimates and deadlines.
- Proficiency with estimating and construction software, including Procore, Bluebeam, Sage Estimating, HCSS, ProEst, Microsoft Excel, or similar tools.
Pay
Salary Range: $95,000 - $130,000 depending on experience.
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, Vision
- 401k Plan
- PTO
- Holidays
- Sick Leave (if required by law)