Chief Estimator

Top Echelon LLC; Woodside (NY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Competitive benefits package

Long-term career stability

Job summary

Top Echelon LLC in Queens, NY is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead the Fire Sprinkler Installation Division. You will oversee estimating activities, mentor a team of estimators, and develop accurate, competitive bids while ensuring deadlines are met in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires at least five years of fire sprinkler estimating experience, strong knowledge of NFPA standards, and proficiency with estimating software.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of fire sprinkler estimating experience.
• Strong knowledge of NFPA standards and construction workflows.
• Leadership experience and ability to mentor junior estimators.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimating department for the Fire Sprinkler Installation Division.
• Supervise, train, and mentor junior estimators.
• Review bid packages, drawings, and addenda to develop estimates.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates covering materials, labor, and equipment.
• Update material pricing databases and coordinate with vendors.
• Collaborate with project managers and leadership to ensure continuity from estimate to award.

Skills

Leadership

Bid management

Communication

Mentoring

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.