Senior Estimator

About the role

Tellepsen, one of the largest general contractors in the Greater Houston Area with over 117 years of experience, is seeking experienced Senior Estimators. This position develops, manages, and executes all estimating activities for large, complex projects, creates advanced estimating concepts, and collaborates with clients, architects, and vendors to produce detailed cost proposals.

Responsibilities

• Provide training and supervise the work of Estimators, Project Engineers, or Junior Estimators.
• Review proposal specifications, drawings, and attend pre‑bid meetings to determine scope of work and required estimate contents.
• Consult with clients, vendors, subcontractors, the chief estimator, and other stakeholders to formulate estimates and resolve issues.
• Provide complete conceptual and final estimating input on complex projects.
• Coordinate the total estimating effort for assigned bids/projects.
• Organize and manage a centralized cost‑estimating database and formal processes to ensure historical data utilization.
• Provide technical support to personnel preparing discipline estimates for assigned bids.
• Maintain all working documents and data to back up estimate figures.
• Track awarded contracts, including estimating extra work items, change orders, credits, and procuring material.
• Meet accelerated budget requirements.
• Take ownership of multiple and diverse project responsibilities simultaneously.
• Recommend improvements to cost‑estimating procedures to reduce discrepancies between estimated and actual costs.
• Analyze completed projects to compare estimated versus actual costs and identify reasons for any variances.
• Manage Requests for Information (RFI).
• Contact subcontractors for key trades that directly impact the project.

Important Skills and Attributes

• Leadership – demonstrated ability to manage, motivate, communicate, and persuade others while remaining emotionally intelligent and self‑critical.
• Communications – outstanding verbal and written skills; timely, transparent, direct, and specific; able to influence large groups and interact one‑on‑one with customers and employees.
• Persuasive and Tenacious – strong work ethic, persistent, results‑oriented, and committed to overcoming obstacles.
• Passion – genuine love for construction, especially project management.
• Humility – confidence expressed through actions and results; collaborative culture with no “big shots.”
• Innovation and Technology – understanding and disciplined use of innovative tools to improve effectiveness.
• Collaboration – ability to manage, motivate, and lead teams through a cooperative, non‑autocratic approach.
• Community Involvement – active participation in civic and community organizations, both high‑profile and grassroots.

Qualifications

• 10–15 years of industry‑related experience in estimating.
• Bachelor’s degree in construction management or engineering (preferred).
• Knowledge and understanding of CSI divisions for subcontractor packages.
• Advanced knowledge of building envelope, foundations, roofing systems, concrete slab moisture levels, mechanical systems, ADA standards, etc.
• Proficiency with technology software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, OST, Destiny, etc.).
• OSHA 30 Certification.
• Mastery of safety practices to maintain Tellepsen’s exemplary safety record.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods and techniques.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Education incentives
• Employee assistance programs