Commercial Construction Estimator

ZipRecruiter; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Construction Estimator to join their dynamic team. In this role, you will prepare detailed cost estimates, collaborate with subcontractors, and provide technical support to ensure comprehensive bid coverage. Your strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills will be essential as you manage multiple projects simultaneously. This position offers the opportunity to work in a supportive environment that values integrity, transparency, and accountability. If you are passionate about construction and eager to contribute to innovative projects, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience as a Construction Estimator or similar role.
• Strong understanding of construction processes and estimating techniques.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for construction projects.
• Review specifications and drawings to determine the scope of work.

Skills

Communication Skills

Analytical Skills

Organizational Skills

Project Management

Detail-oriented

Leadership Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Related field degree

Tools

Estimating Software (Bluebeam, ProEst, PlanSwift, Smartsheets)

Microsoft Office Suite

Spreadsheets

Job description

Position: Construction Estimator

Job Summary:

The Estimator at CDO Group is responsible for preparing detailed and accurate cost estimates for construction projects. This role involves reviewing proposal specifications and drawings, preparing disciplined estimates, and maintaining documentation to support estimate figures. The Estimator will also work closely with subcontractors, attend pre-bid meetings, and provide technical support to ensure comprehensive bid coverage. Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills are essential, as is the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Key Responsibilities:

• Review proposal specifications and drawings to determine the scope of work and required contents of the estimate.
• Prepare disciplined estimates by writing a complete scope of work.
• Maintain files of working documents as a backup for estimate figures.
• May review construction options with subcontractors and recommend the best solution based on cost, engineering quality, or availability of materials to the Estimating Manager.
• Review and incorporate historical data from purchase orders, subcontracts, and personal knowledge.
• Review proposal specifications, drawings, and work letters, and attend pre-bid meetings, etc., when needed to determine the scope of work and required estimate contents.
• Solicit subcontractors to ensure full coverage on the entire bid.
• Provide technical support to personnel preparing discipline estimates for assigned bids.
• Ensure all working documents and data are maintained to back-up estimate figures.
• Maintain subcontractor database and develop positive relationships with subcontractors.
• Take responsibility for all assigned tasks to assist in correctly building a full bid.

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to estimate all types of projects and coordinate and lead a portion of a full estimate.
• Comfortable working phones and discussing detailed scopes with subcontractors.
• Must have excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Understands and knows how to use spreadsheets.
• Excellent analytical skills.
• Ability to manage and prioritize simultaneous projects.
• Flexibility and tolerance for constantly changing demands.
• Thoroughness and detail-oriented.
• Must have a good command of the English language, both written and verbal.
• Must have good communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Must be able to comprehend a wide variety of oral and written instructions.
• Strong leadership and team player skills.
• Strong computer skills including word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
• Must be located in Illinois.

Work Hours:

• General work hours are 8:00 - 5:00 PM and 5-day work weeks are standard.

*Note that work hours and workdays may vary (changes, additions, etc.) based on critical work activities and/or required bid schedule.

Work Environment:

• Work is primarily performed in the office but may include occasional site visits.
• On-site in Illinois.

Salary Range:

• $85,000-$95,000

Requirements:

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience as a Construction Estimator or in a similar role.
• Strong understanding of construction processes, materials, and methods.
• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, ProEst, PlanSwift, Smartsheets) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent mathematical and analytical skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, and construction documents.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• 1-3 years of estimating, cost control, and/or engineering experience in the construction environment. Advanced knowledge of estimating techniques and cost control is appreciated, plus the ability to interpret computerized cost data and systems is essential.
• Ability to do takeoffs when needed for various trades.
• Desire to learn additional duties as needed.

Company Description:

For 28 years, CDO Group has been serving top retail and restaurant brands across the nation. With our trusted partners, we are revolutionizing the commercial construction industry and redefining development program management. Our unwavering commitment to improvement benefits our customers, communities, partners, and ourselves. As a growing company, we foster a dynamic and influential culture of service centered on integrity, transparency, trust, candor, and accountability.

At CDO Group, we live by our Core Values:

• Own It. No excuses, no shortcuts—just accountability and solutions.
• Be a Partner, Not a Vendor. We build relationships, not just projects.
• Communicate Clearly. No surprises. Just transparency, trust, and alignment.
• Stay Ahead. We innovate, adapt, and find better ways to build.
• Protect the Crew. Safety isn’t negotiable—it’s our responsibility.
• Reputation is Everything. Integrity, honesty, and results define us.