Commercial Estimator

Manuel Builders; Broussard (LA); Hybrid; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Manuel Builders in Broussard, LA is seeking a Junior Commercial Estimator to support preconstruction activities and help generate accurate project estimates. You will assist with conceptual, schematic, and final For Construction estimates, perform quantity takeoffs, and coordinate with subcontractors and vendors.

The role emphasizes analytical thinking, organized work habits, and the ability to collaborate across project teams while developing estimating skills in a supportive, growth-focused

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management preferred.
• 1–3 years of preconstruction/estimating experience preferred.
• Understanding of construction plans and specs.
• Strong math and analytical skills.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; estimating software a plus.
• Ability to build relationships with subcontractors and vendors.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Assist with conceptual, schematic, and final estimates.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and surveys.
• Support bid day operations and coordinate with the project team.
• Review drawings and project directives.
• Identify bid packages and scopes of work.
• Issue bids invitations; ensure coverage.
• Research qualified subs and vendors.
• Maintain subcontractor/vendor databases.
• Develop estimating templates and databases.
• Gather historical data for unit pricing.
• Help develop preconstruction schedules.
• Collaborate with architects, designers, subs, vendors, and staff.
• Lead estimate reviews and transition to operations.
• Support estimator throughout preconstruction.

Skills

analytical

organized

collaborative

eager to learn

attention to detail

multi-priority management

Education

Bachelor of Construction Management

Tools

Microsoft Office

Estimating software

Job description

Description

We are looking for a Junior Commercial Estimator to join our team and support the estimating and project teams throughout the preconstruction process. This position is an opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals while developing your skills in estimating, subcontractor coordination, project planning, and construction operations.

What You’ll Do

As a Junior Estimator, you will help develop accurate, competitive project estimates and support the team from the early conceptual stages through final construction pricing.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Assist with conceptual, schematic, and final “For Construction” estimates
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and surveys
• Assist with bid day operations and coordination with the project team
• Review and manage project drawings, sketches, details, files, and directives
• Identify project bid packages and scopes of work and coordinate with bidders
• Issue invitations to bid and ensure adequate subcontractor and vendor coverage
• Research and identify qualified subcontractors and vendors in our markets
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors and vendors
• Maintain subcontractor and vendor databases
• Develop and maintain estimating templates and databases
• Gather historical project data to support accurate estimating and unit pricing
• Assist with developing project preconstruction schedules
• Collaborate with architects, designers, subcontractors, vendors, and internal project teams
• Prepare and lead estimate reviews and facilitate the transition from estimating to operations
• Support the Estimator and project team throughout the preconstruction process

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who is analytical, organized, collaborative, and eager to learn. The right candidate will have strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven construction environment.

Why Join Us?

This is more than an entry-level estimating position—it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and build a career in construction while working alongside an experienced team.

If you are ready to put your attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and interest in construction to work, we’d love to hear from you!

Requirements

Preferred qualifications:

• Construction, estimating, engineering, architecture, or related experience/education
• Understanding of construction plans, specifications, and building processes
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with estimating or construction software is a plus
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with subcontractors and vendors
• Ability to work independently while also being a strong team player

Education and Experience

• Bachelor of Construction Management Preferred
• Minimum 1-3 years of experience in preconstruction / estimating experience preferred