Commercial Construction Estimator (Onsite Chicago)

Novak Construction Company; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision coverage

401(k) plan

Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time

Annual discretionary performance bonus

Job summary

Novak Construction, a premier national general contractor and construction management firm based in Chicago, is seeking an Estimator to join its preconstruction team. You will prepare detailed estimates for commercial projects, perform quantity take-offs, and analyze subcontractor bids to develop budgets and pricing packages.

Ideal candidates have at least 5 years of estimating experience, are proficient in reading drawings, and can collaborate with project managers, subs, and design teams to

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related field preferred or equivalent work experience.
• Experience with commercial construction projects including retail, industrial, or tenant improvements.
• Minimum 5 years of estimating experience.
• Proficiency in reading construction plans and specifications.
• Solid understanding of construction methods, materials, and systems.
• Strong Microsoft Excel and Bluebeam skills; experience with OST, Autodesk/ProCore is a plus.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and able to work independently or in a team.
• Willingness to travel minimally for site visits and pre-bid meetings.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates for commercial construction projects.
• Perform quantity take-offs across multiple trades (demolition, concrete, finishes, etc).
• Review and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Solicit and analyze pricing from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Organize and compare subcontractor and vendor proposals.
• Support development of GMP, lump sum, and competitive bid proposals.
• Maintain accurate estimate files and documentation.
• Track historical cost data and update pricing databases.
• Attend site visits and pre-bid walkthroughs as required.
• Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, and design teams to align on project goals.

Skills

Estimating

Reading drawings

Excel

Bluebeam

Subcontractor analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Equivalent work experience

Tools

OST

Procore

Autodesk

Job description

Novak Construction, a premier national general contractor and construction management firm based in Chicago, is seeking an Estimator to join its preconstruction team. You will prepare detailed estimates for commercial projects, perform quantity take-offs, and analyze subcontractor bids to develop budgets and pricing packages.

Ideal candidates have at least 5 years of estimating experience, are proficient in reading drawings, and can collaborate with project managers, subs, and design teams to