Assistant Commercial Construction Estimator

The Contractor Consultants; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Health coverage

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Tech package

Mentor training programs

Job summary

SG Metal & Glass, a Chicago-based premier glazing contractor, seeks a Preconstruction Strategy Leader to transform architectural drawings into winning bid proposals for landmark commercial projects in Chicagoland. This on-site role partners with fabrication and project teams to drive profitable outcomes.

You will perform quantity takeoffs for curtain wall and glazing systems, build Excel-based bids reflecting scope and costs, analyze drawings for gaps, solicit vendor pricing, and help hand off

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience in commercial construction estimating.
• Proficiency in Excel and takeoff software (Bluebeam or OST).
• Ability to interpret architectural drawings and meet bid deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Perform quantity takeoffs for curtain wall, storefront, and glazing systems.
• Build detailed Excel-based bid proposals reflecting scope and costs.
• Analyze drawings to identify scope gaps and project risks.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor pricing for competitive material costs.
• Coordinate with engineering and project teams for handoffs after award.
• Track bid results and maintain estimating database for pricing improvement.

Skills

Commercial construction estimating

Microsoft Excel

Bluebeam / On-Screen Takeoff

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management or Engineering

Tools

Bluebeam

On-Screen Takeoff

Job description

Preconstruction Strategy Leader — Drive Growth for High-Value Commercial Glazing Projects

Job Overview

• Company: SG Metal & Glass.
• Salary/Pay Rate: $50,000 to $85,000 per year.
• Location: Bridgeview, IL (On-site).
• Job/Employment Type: Full Time.
• Schedule: Monday – Friday.
• Project Scope: Glazing / Commercial Windows / Glass
• Mandatory Licenses & Certifications: None Required.

The Opportunity

You will play a critical role in the company’s profitability by transforming complex architectural blueprints into competitive, winning bid proposals. This position offers the unique opportunity to influence the preconstruction strategy of a 60-year industry leader, working alongside a dedicated fabrication team to secure landmark commercial projects across the Chicagoland area.

How You Will Make an Impact

• Perform precise quantity takeoffs for curtain wall, storefront, and specialized glazing systems.
• Build detailed, Excel-based bid proposals that accurately reflect project scope and material costs.
• Analyze architectural drawings and specifications to identify potential scope gaps and project risks.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor pricing to ensure the most competitive and reliable material procurement.
• Coordinate with engineering and project management teams to facilitate seamless project handoffs after an award.
• Track real-time bid results and maintain the estimating database to improve future pricing accuracy.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 1-3 years of experience in commercial construction estimating.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with takeoff software such as Bluebeam or On-Screen Takeoff.
• Proven ability to interpret architectural drawings, specifications, and project addenda.
• Demonstrated history of meeting strict bid deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Direct experience with Division 8 glazing systems or facade assemblies.
• Experience working within a union labor environment and knowledge of the Chicagoland General Contractor market.

Compensation & Benefits

• Weekly pay cycle.
• Comprehensive health coverage including Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.
• Retirement savings program.
• Paid Time Off for holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Tech package including a smartphone or tablet and a personal tool replacement program.
• Access to formal apprenticeship and mentor training programs.

About Us

Established in 1959, SG Metal & Glass is a premier Chicago-based commercial glazing contractor specializing in the design and installation of high-performance facade systems. We operate a 20,000 sq. ft. fabrication facility and foster a culture rooted in precision, safety, and long-term career advancement.

Learn more at www.sg-chicago.com.

SG Metal & Glass is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.