Chief Estimator

Keystone Distinction Group; New York (NY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Leadership role with influence

Supportive environment with career stability

Job summary

A leading fire protection firm in New York is seeking a Chief Estimator to oversee the estimating department for their Fire Sprinkler Installation Division. The successful candidate will manage a team, prepare competitive bids, and ensure that projects meet deadlines. Key qualifications include at least 5 years of estimating experience, knowledge of the construction industry, and leadership skills. This role offers a competitive compensation package, including a salary range of $120,000 - $150,000 and bonuses based on performance.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of fire sprinkler estimating experience required.
• Strong understanding of the construction industry, building systems, and project workflows.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and shifting priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimating department for the Fire Sprinkler Installation Division.
• Supervise, train, and mentor junior estimators.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates, including materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractors.

Skills

Fire sprinkler estimating experience

Construction industry knowledge

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Leadership experience

Tools

Estimating software

Digital takeoff tools

Job description

Chief Estimator, Queens, NY

Our client is a leader in the fire protection space, currently seeking a Chief Estimator to join their team, lead, and elevate their estimating department. The right candidate will oversee all estimating activities for the Fire Sprinkler Installation Division and be responsible for managing and mentoring a team of estimators, developing accurate and competitive bids, and ensuring the department meets tight deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimating department for the Fire Sprinkler Installation Division.
• Supervise, train, and mentor junior estimators.
• Review bid packages, specifications, drawings, and addenda to develop accurate takeoffs and estimates.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates, including materials, labor, equipment, subcontractors, etc.
• Update and maintain material pricing databases; work with vendors to ensure accuracy.
• Utilize estimating software and tools to streamline workflows
• Collaborate with project managers, designers, and company leadership to ensure continuity from estimate through award.
• Communicate effectively with general contractors regarding bid clarifications, scope questions, revisions, and deadlines.
• Manage multiple bids simultaneously while meeting tight and often shifting deadline demands—understanding that bids are “living and breathing” documents subject to quick changes.
• Assist in strategy development, including margin analysis, value engineering options, and competitive positioning.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of fire sprinkler estimating experience (required).
• Strong understanding of the construction industry, building systems, and project workflows.
• Experience or familiarity with fire sprinkler design (a plus).
• Proficiency with estimating software and digital takeoff tools (a plus).
• Strong knowledge of material pricing, product options, and NFPA standards with sprinkler systems.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and shifting priorities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; confident in speaking directly with GCs and clients.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and respond quickly to bid changes.
• Leadership experience and the ability to develop junior team members.

What We Offer

• Leadership role with real influence on company growth and project success.
• Competitive compensation package (salary, benefits, and other options based on experience).
• Supportive environment with long-term career stability.

The base salary range for this position will be $120,000 - $150,000, with target compensation based on overall experience. Additional compensation includes end of year bonus as well as strong benefits including matching 401K retirement programs.