Senior Estimator

About the role

This role is for someone who knows how to take a project from concept to a confident number and stand behind it.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of full-scope estimates for complex commercial construction projects
• Note: Absher's market sectors include commercial, K-12, Transit, Federal, and Public Works
• Manage preconstruction budgets from early concept through final proposal
• Lead design-build pursuits and collaborate with owners, architects, and consultants
• Analyze drawings and specifications for constructability, risk, and cost impacts
• Develop and present value engineering options and cost strategies
• Build and maintain strong subcontractor relationships and drive bid coverage
• Lead subcontractor bid analysis, scope leveling, and final recommendations
• Identify risks and opportunities and communicate clearly to leadership and clients
• Participate in bid day activities and oversee buyout processes
• Review estimate formatting and ensure alignment with internal systems and cost tracking
• Track historical cost data and apply insights to future pursuits
• Lead and mentor 2–3 estimators and support team development

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in construction estimating or a related field
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field, or equivalent experience
• Experience leading estimates for projects in the ~$40M–$100M+ range
• Strong experience in design-build or complex project delivery methods
• Experience interfacing directly with owners and clients during preconstruction
• Ability to lead full-scope estimates across multiple trades
• Strong understanding of risk analysis, budgeting, and value engineering
• Experience with self-perform concrete estimating is a plus
• Strong communication and presentation skills

Qualifications

• You take full ownership of the number and the strategy behind it
• You can lead a pursuit while keeping the team aligned and moving
• You communicate clearly and can articulate risks, gaps, and recommendations
• You’re confident working directly with clients, architects, and subcontractors
• You hold yourself and others accountable for outcomes

Benefits

All offers are contingent upon a successful background check and drug screen. Absher is a proud Federal Contractor.

Pay Transparency: $125,000 - $165,000 USD

Schedule

This role is primarily based in an office setting with regular interaction on active jobsites. The position involves computer work, collaboration across teams, and occasional exposure to construction site conditions.

Skills

• Full ownership of estimates and strategies
• Leadership in design-build pursuits
• Clear communication and risk/gap articulation
• Direct client/client/vendor interaction
• Accountability for outcomes

Pay

Salary offers are typically made between the entry and midpoint of the range and are based on factors such as experience, education, and internal equity.

Work Environment

This role is primarily based in an office setting with regular interaction on active jobsites. The position involves computer work, collaboration across teams, and occasional exposure to construction site conditions.