Commercial Estimator (Storefront & Glazing)

Northstar Summit; Idaho Falls (ID); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Cherry Glass & Aluminum in Idaho Falls, ID is seeking a self-motivated estimator with glazing knowledge to join our team. You will generate accurate estimates for commercial storefronts, perform takeoffs from PDFs and plans, review specs, manage bid opportunities, and support submittals.

You will read architectural plans, coordinate with PMs/drafters on shop drawings, and ensure bids address timelines and margins, while maintaining clear communication with GCs and subs.

Qualifications

• Storefront/glazing knowledge for commercial aluminum doors, frames, hardware; insulated/tempered/laminated glass.
• Blueprint reading & plan/spec interpretation.
• Proficiency with digital takeoffs.
• Experience with glazing estimating platforms (WinBidPro or similar) a plus.
• Understanding of building codes and typical submittal/workflow.

Responsibilities

• Prepare quotes and change orders from drawings and specs.
• Perform quantity takeoffs from PDFs/blueprints with measurement tools.
• Read/interpret architectural plans/specs and manage bid documentation.
• Coordinate with PMs/drafters on shop drawings and submittals; maintain bid calendars.
• Communicate bids, alternates, and scope clarifications with GCs/subs.

Skills

Glazing knowledge

Blueprint reading

Digital takeoffs

Excel skills

Clear communication

Tools

WinBidPro

Bluebeam

Job description

Location: Idaho Falls, ID (serving Eastern Idaho & Western Wyoming) Company: Cherry Glass & Aluminum — locally owned since 1968

Cherry Glass & Aluminum (CGA) is a multi-generational local business established in 1968 as a branch of Capitol Glass and then purchased and rebranded in 1978. CGA is currently looking for a self-motivated and reliable individual who understands glass and enjoys working hard to join our team. CGA is located in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and specializes in glass and aluminum solutions for commercial and residential applications. This position will be based out of Idaho Falls, Idaho.

Core Purpose

Generate accurate, competitive estimates for commercial (and select residential) glass and aluminum projects by performing takeoffs, reviewing plans/specs, managing bid opportunities, and supporting submittals/shop drawings. This role is crucial to securing profitable work and strengthening contractor relationships.

What You’ll Do

Daily

• Prepare small storefront quotes and change orders.
• Perform quantity takeoffs from PDFs/blueprints; leverage measurement tools to speed up and improve accuracy.
• Conduct job-measure wall checks for residential and commercial projects.
• Read/interpret architectural plans/specs
• Manage project documentation (details, budgets, timelines, updates).
• Create value-engineering and design options that meet customer/GC needs.
• Communicate clearly with GCs/subs about bids, alternates, and scope clarifications.

Weekly

• Prepare comprehensive takeoffs for large storefront/curtain wall packages.
• Coordinate with PMs/drafters on shop drawings; contribute to submittal packages and pre-job prep.
• Maintain and update a “keep list” of upcoming bids; own deadlines.
• Build pipeline: call or reach out to contractors to uncover opportunities.
• Ensure estimates address insurance and compliance requirements/notes.

As Needed

• Revise and issue change orders when scope shifts.
• Negotiate pricing or scope with contractors to protect margins.
• Tackle unique/custom designs with detailed estimates.
• Support PMs/production with estimate clarifications and RFIs.
• Troubleshoot discrepancies in drawings, specs, or field measurements.
• Level bids and vendor quotes; document inclusions/exclusions/qualifications.

Measures of Success

• Estimates delivered/week
• % of bids submitted before deadline
• Win rate %
• Estimate vs. actual cost variance
• Quoted hours vs. actual hours variance

What You Bring (Requirements)

• Storefront/glazing knowledge (commercial aluminum doors, frames, hardware; insulated/tempered/laminated glass).
• Blueprint reading & plan/spec interpretation
• Proficiency with digital takeoffs
• Experience with glazing estimating platforms (GDS WinBidPro or similar) a plus.
• Understanding of building codes and typical submittal/shop-drawing workflows.
• Strong Excel skills; detail-oriented, organized, and deadline-driven.
• Clear, professional communication with GCs, subs, vendors, and internal teams.
• Valid driver’s license; ability to perform site measures with laser/tape; basic PPE use.

Nice to Have

• GDS/WinBidPro experience (vendor catalogs, optimized cut lists, and reporting).
• Bluebeam power-user (custom measurement tools/markups for faster QTO).