Commercial Flooring Estimator

Gulf Coast Flooring & Services; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Gulf Coast Flooring & Services in Houston seeks a detail-oriented Commercial Flooring Estimator to analyze project specifications, perform takeoffs, estimate costs, and keep projects within budget. Experience in commercial construction, especially K-12 and multifamily, is preferred.

You will review drawings, develop cost breakouts, compare supplier pricing, and collaborate with Project Managers to finalize bids. Strong Excel/estimating software skills and negotiation abilities are essential.

Qualifications

• Must have 2+ years construction estimating experience.
• Strong understanding of architectural plans and specs.
• Proficiency with Excel, Word, and estimating software.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings and specs to determine scope of work.
• Perform material takeoffs and cost estimates.
• Develop detailed cost breakdowns (materials, labor, equipment, subcontractors).
• Analyze supplier/subcontractor pricing for cost efficiency.
• Ensure estimates align with profitability goals and project requirements.
• Collaborate with management to meet bid deadlines.
• Communicate with Project Managers, Coordinators, and Supers.

Skills

Excel & Word proficiency

Analytical skills

Negotiation

Education

High School Diploma / GED

2+ years estimating experience

Bachelor's degree or architectural background (preferred)

Tools

Measure Square

Bluebeam

ERP/CRM

Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Commercial Flooring Estimator to join our team. This role involves analyzing project specifications, preparing takeoffs, estimating costs, and ensuring projects stay within budget. The ideal candidate has experience in commercial construction, particularly in general construction, K-12, and multifamily projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Review project drawings and specifications to determine the full scope of work.
• Perform accurate material takeoffs and cost estimations.
• Develop detailed cost breakdowns, considering materials, labor, equipment, and subcontract work.
• Analyze and compare supplier and subcontractor pricing for optimal cost efficiency.
• Ensure estimates reflect actual project requirements and align with company profitability goals.
• Collaborate with management to meet deadlines and finalize project bids.
• Communicate effectively with Project Managers, Coordinators, and Superintendents.
• Participate in project meetings, providing insight into cost implications.
• Negotiate with suppliers, subcontractors, and clients to secure competitive pricing.

Coordinate with Operations for Smooth Handoffs

• - Review awarded estimates with project managers to ensure clarity and prevent scope gaps.
• - Document lessons learned to improve future proposals.

Required Qualifications

• Required: High School Diploma/GED; 2+ years of construction estimating experience.
• Preferred: Bachelor's degree or architectural background.
• Strong understanding of architectural plans and specifications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and estimating software (e.g., Measure Square, Bluebeam).
• Excellent mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong negotiation and relationship-building abilities.
• Effective time management and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. and ability to pass a background check.

Performance Metrics

Bid accuracy and completeness.

Hit rate (target: 15% or higher).

Timeliness of bid submissions.

Adherence to standardized workflows.

Why Join Us

Be part of a growing company with a strong reputation in the Gulf Coast region.

Lead a high-impact team and shape best-in-class estimating practices.

Competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.

30-60-90 Day Onboarding Plan

30 Days - Foundation

Goals:

• Understand company culture, processes, and key stakeholders.
• Review current estimating workflows, templates, and tools (Measure Square, Bluebeam, ERP/CRM).
• Shadow estimators to observe bid preparation and submission.
• Meet with Sales, Operations, and Finance to understand handoff expectations and budget controls.

Key Actions:

• Conduct a gap analysis of existing estimating practices.
• Review historical bid performance and hit rate data.
• Begin building rapport with the estimating team and set initial expectations.
• Draft a preliminary plan for standardizing documentation and templates.

60 Days - Implementation

Goals:

• Take full ownership of the estimating department.
• Implement standardized templates and documentation requirements.
• Establish KPIs for bid accuracy, turnaround time, and hit rate.
• Begin regular reporting on bid activity and performance metrics.

Key Actions:

• Train team on updated workflows and documentation standards.
• Launch color-coded plan markup and detailed notes for all bids.
• Start proactive follow-up on proposals and client engagement.
• Collaborate with Sales on joint outreach for new opportunities.

90 Days - Optimization

Goals:

• Drive measurable improvement in bid quality and hit rate (target: 15% award rate).
• Fully integrate estimating with operations for seamless handoffs.
• Identify and implement process improvements for efficiency and accuracy.
• Position the department as a strategic partner in business development.

Key Actions:

• Conduct a review of lost bids and implement corrective strategies.
• Finalize a long-term training plan for estimators.
• Present a quarterly performance report to leadership with recommendations.
• Begin exploring technology enhancements (ERP integration, automation).