Chief Estimator

Absher Construction Company; Washington; On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Absher Construction Company is seeking a Chief Estimator for a full-time, on-site position in Pacific, WA. You will lead the estimating department, review plans and specs, and develop detailed cost estimates for commercial projects.

The role emphasizes mentoring estimators, coordinating with preconstruction, project management, and business development, and participating in risk assessments and cost-control initiatives to win bids.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Progressive estimating experience in commercial construction, including senior/lead responsibilities.
• Experience leading estimating teams and collaborating with preconstruction and PM groups.
• Strong understanding of means/methods, codes, materials, and market conditions affecting cost.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and time-management abilities.
• Clear, professional communication with internal teams, clients, and trade partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead the estimating department to prepare accurate bids and budgets for projects.
• Review project plans and specifications to develop cost estimates.
• Coordinate quantity take-offs, subcontractor and supplier proposals.
• Mentor estimators and collaborate with preconstruction, PM, and business development teams.
• Participate in risk assessments, value engineering, and cost-control initiatives.

Skills

Estimating

Bid analysis

Leadership

Construction knowledge

Time management

Communication

Estimating standards

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management/Engineering or related field

Several years of progressive estimating experience in commercial construction (senior/lead role)

Tools

Estimating software

Project management software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Company Description

Absher Construction Company, founded in 1940 and headquartered in Puyallup, WA, is one of the northwest’s oldest and most diverse construction organizations. The company focuses on creating and building community through teamwork, leadership, and deep industry experience. Absher’s culture is anchored in core values that emphasize caring about people, practicing servant leadership, and adhering to high ethical and quality standards. Team members are encouraged to “do things right” and “do right things,” fostering a collaborative, mission-driven environment. Applicants can expect a workplace that values integrity, service, and long-term relationships in the construction industry.

Role Description

The Chief Estimator role at Absher Construction Company is a full-time, on-site position located in Pacific, WA. The Chief Estimator leads the estimating department in preparing accurate, competitive bids and budgets for commercial, industrial, and institutional construction projects. Day-to-day responsibilities include reviewing project plans and specifications, coordinating quantity take-offs, analyzing subcontractor and supplier proposals, and developing detailed cost estimates. The role oversees estimating processes and tools, mentors estimators, and collaborates closely with preconstruction, project management, and business development teams to support winning strategies and project delivery. The Chief Estimator also participates in risk assessments, value engineering, and cost control initiatives, while maintaining strong relationships with clients, design partners, and trade partners.

Qualifications

• Strong expertise in construction estimating, including quantity take-offs, pricing, and bid preparation for a variety of project types.
• Proficiency with estimating and project management software, as well as Microsoft Office tools used for analysis and reporting.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, including mentoring teams, delegating tasks effectively, and fostering a collaborative, service-oriented culture.
• Solid understanding of construction means and methods, building codes, materials, and current market conditions impacting cost.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and time-management abilities to manage multiple pursuits and deadlines.
• Clear and professional communication skills for coordinating with internal teams, clients, design professionals, and trade partners.
• Experience developing and implementing estimating standards, procedures, and best practices to improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Several years of progressive estimating experience in commercial construction, including experience in a senior or lead estimating role.
• Commitment to Absher’s core values, including caring about people, servant leadership, and doing what is right in all business practices.