Chief Estimator

Centurion Selection; Reno (NV); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Centurion Selection seeks a Chief Estimator to oversee all estimating and preconstruction activities from budgeting to final bid submittals.

You will lead the estimating team, develop accurate and competitive cost estimates, and work with clients, design teams, and operations to position projects for success.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating or preconstruction.
• Senior estimating or estimating leadership experience preferred.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project documents.
• Experience in managing estimating teams and multiple project pursuits.
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, cost estimating, subcontractor bidding, and trade scoping.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, and estimating software.

Responsibilities

• Lead estimating activities, including conceptual budgets, detailed estimates, and final GMP pricing.
• Manage, mentor, and develop estimating staff and establish standards.
• Review plans, specs, and requirements to develop accurate estimates.
• Oversee subcontractor and vendor bidding, bid packages, and bid leveling.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities through value engineering and constructability reviews.
• Evaluate risks, contingencies, allowances, labor costs, and materials pricing.
• Ensure complete trade coverage and competitive pricing across estimates.
• Collaborate with clients, architects, engineers, and operations teams.
• Support business development, client presentations, and project pursuits.
• Oversee transition of awarded projects from estimating to operations.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Organization

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Bluebeam

Estimating software

Job description

The Chief Estimator oversees all estimating and preconstruction activities, from initial project budgeting through final bid submissions and contract award. This role leads the estimating team, develops accurate and competitive cost estimates, manages subcontractor bidding, and works closely with clients, design teams, and operations to ensure projects are properly priced and positioned for success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee estimating activities, including conceptual budgets, detailed estimates, and final GMP pricing.
• Manage, mentor, and develop estimating staff while establishing estimating standards and procedures.
• Review construction plans, specifications, and project requirements to develop accurate cost estimates.
• Manage subcontractor and vendor bidding, including bid packages, scope reviews, and bid leveling.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities through value engineering and constructability reviews.
• Evaluate project risks, contingencies, allowances, labor costs, and material pricing.
• Ensure complete trade coverage and competitive pricing across all project estimates.
• Collaborate with clients, architects, engineers, and operations teams throughout the preconstruction process.
• Support business development efforts, client presentations, and project pursuits.
• Oversee the transition of awarded projects from estimating to operations.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating or preconstruction.
• Previous experience in a senior estimating or estimating leadership role preferred.
• Strong knowledge of construction budgeting, cost estimating, subcontractor bidding, and trade scoping.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project documents.
• Experience managing estimating teams and multiple project pursuits simultaneously.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, and estimating software.
• Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Strong understanding of construction materials, building systems, labor costs, and market pricing.