Assistant Project Estimator

PowerGrid Services; Garner (NC); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

PTO and holidays

Career growth opportunities

Mentorship program

Job summary

GridTech/PowerGrid is seeking an Assistant Project Estimator/Proposal Specialist in Garner, NC. Recent college graduates will gain experience in construction estimating and project development, working with senior estimators and project teams to prepare bids and proposals.

The role emphasizes learning the estimating process, collaboration with PMs and field personnel, and contributing to project schedules and submissions for deadlines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Building Science, or related field (Required).
• Recent college graduate preferred (Class of 2022–2025).
• Prior internship or co-op in construction, estimating, or project management is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior estimators in preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for construction projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs from plans, drawings, and specifications.
• Analyze subcontractor and supplier bids and quotes; develop bid packages and documents.

Skills

Analytical skills

Mathematical skills

Written and verbal communication

Teamwork

Eagerness to learn

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Bluebeam

ProEst

Sage Estimating

Procore

Buildertrend

Job description

GridTech/PowerGrid is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Assistant Project Estimator/Proposal Specialist to join our team at our Garner, NC office. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent college graduate looking to launch their career in construction estimating and project development. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic foundation in construction management or a related field and a passion for learning the estimating and proposal process from the ground up.

Estimating & Bidding

• Assist senior estimators in preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for construction projects
• Perform quantity takeoffs from plans, drawings, and specifications
• Analyze subcontractor and supplier bids and quotes
• Assist in the development and review of bid packages and bid documents
• Research material costs, labor rates, and equipment costs to support estimate development
• Maintain and update the estimating database with current pricing and historical data

Proposal Development

• Assist in the preparation of professional proposals and RFP responses
• Compile and organize project information, scope narratives, and supporting documentation
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and field personnel to gather relevant project data
• Help develop project schedules and milestone timelines to support proposals
• Ensure proposals are submitted accurately and on time

Project Support

• Support the project management team during the pre-construction phase
• Assist with scope of work reviews and project planning documents
• Maintain organized files and records of all estimates, bids, and proposals
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site walks, and client meetings as needed
• Track and follow up on submitted bids and proposals

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with project managers, field supervisors, and subcontractors
• Communicate effectively with vendors and suppliers to obtain pricing
• Assist in building and maintaining positive relationships with clients and business partners
• Participate in internal team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement efforts

Qualifications & Requirements

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Building Science, or a related field (Required)
• Recent college graduate preferred (Class of 2022–2025)

Experience

• Prior internship or co-op experience in construction, estimating, or project management is a plus but not required
• Familiarity with construction plans, specifications, and drawings preferred

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Exposure to estimating software such as Bluebeam, ProEst, Sage Estimating, or similar is a plus
• Familiarity with project management platforms such as Procore, Buildertrend, or similar is a plus
• Basic understanding of construction methods, materials, and sequencing

Core Competencies

• Strong analytical and mathematical skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organizational skills and self-motivation
• Eagerness to learn and grow within the estimating and construction field
• Team-oriented with a positive, professional attitude

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with education and experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
• Career growth and advancement opportunities
• Mentorship program and on-the-job training
• Professional and collaborative work environment