Senior Construction Estimator

About the Role

The Senior Construction Estimator plays a critical role in the early success of every project. You will be responsible for developing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates from conceptual budgeting through final bid submission. Working closely with Preconstruction, Operations, and Executive Leadership, you will help ensure every bid is complete, competitive, and aligned with project goals. This is not just a takeoff role, it is a strategic position that requires strong analytical thinking, sound judgment, and proactive collaboration across teams.

You will lead estimating and cost planning efforts from concept through issued GMP, including conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates. You will review construction documents to define and scope work accurately. You will perform detailed quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and unit pricing for materials, labor, equipment, and general conditions. You will prepare complete, competitive, and defendable estimates, proposals, and bid packages aligned with project scope and contract requirements. You will coordinate all aspects of the estimating process, including bid management, documentation tracking, and pre-award negotiations.

• Prepare and present detailed estimate narratives, bid summaries, and scope analyses to support decision-making
• Guide subcontractor buyout strategy, early trade partner involvement, and procurement planning for long-lead items and escalation risks
• Support post-bid activities, including project buyout assistance and cost clarifications for Project Managers
• Maintain and develop estimating databases, historical cost data, pricing resources, and trade rate references
• Continuously improve estimating processes and workflows to increase accuracy and efficiency

Job Duties

• Lead estimating and cost planning efforts from concept through issued GMP, including conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates
• Review construction documents to define and scope work accurately
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and unit pricing for materials, labor, equipment, and general conditions
• Prepare complete, competitive, and defendable estimates, proposals, and bid packages aligned with project scope and contract requirements
• Coordinate all aspects of the estimating process, including bid management, documentation tracking, and pre-award negotiations
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier bids, maintaining qualified subcontractor/vendor lists and assessing qualifications and financial stability
• Validate quantities, production rates, market pricing, and GMP assumptions, including risk, allowances, and contingency strategies
• Facilitate progressive design-build pricing evolution and provide value analysis, constructability input, and cost guidance to the project team
• Participate in owner, architect, and design meetings as the contractor's cost advisor
• Reconcile estimates with design teams and owner representatives and track design changes and budget impacts in real time
• Support post-bid activities, including project buyout assistance and cost clarifications for Project Managers
• Maintain and develop estimating databases, historical cost data, pricing resources, and trade rate references
• Continuously improve estimating processes and workflows to increase accuracy and efficiency

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
• 8+ years of estimating experience in commercial and/or public works construction with senior-level responsibility for complex projects
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and cost structures
• Experience performing quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, budget development, and producing accurate, competitive estimates under deadlines
• Experience reading and interpreting construction drawings, specifications, and contracts
• Experience soliciting, evaluating, and leveling subcontractor and supplier bids
• Experience supporting value engineering, cost optimization, and risk analysis
• Understanding of project scheduling, sequencing, and site logistics as they relate to costs
• Proficiency in estimating and construction software (e.g., Bluebeam, PlanSwift, Procore, Sage)
• Familiarity with local codes, permitting, and regulatory requirements
• Analytical, detail-oriented, and proactive problem-solver
• Self-motivated with a sense of ownership over projects
• Collaborative team player who works effectively across multiple departments
• Strong judgment and decision-making under pressure
• Adaptable in a fast-paced construction environment
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple bids and priorities
• Integrity and professionalism when interacting with clients, vendors, and subcontractors
• Clear and effective communicator

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Medical, Dental, & Vision insurance
• 401(K) matching
• Paid time off

Hiring Range

A typical hiring range for this position is $140,000 - $150,000 USD salary with the final offer based on your qualifications, job-related skills, and relevant experience.

Total Rewards

• Comprehensive benefits
• Continuing education bonus program
• Opportunities for career growth

EEO Statement

ECG is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business needs.