Construction Cost Estimator

GM HILL Engineering; Jacksonville (FL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A construction and engineering firm located in Jacksonville, Florida is seeking a Cost Estimator to coordinate subcontractors and resources for accurate project estimates. The role requires reviewing project specifications, preparing bids, and tracking cost trends. Ideal candidates will possess a Bachelor's degree or relevant experience, with proficiency in estimating software and strong communication skills. This position also involves collaboration with clients and project management teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in construction or estimating.
• 3-5 years estimating experience, ideally in commercial projects over $2 million.
• Proficiency with MS Office and estimating software.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate subcontractors and resources for accurate estimates.
• Review project plans and specifications.
• Prepare bid documents and maintain project bid schedules.
• Build relationships with clients, contractors, and suppliers.

Skills

Proficiency with estimating software (SAGE, RS Means, Bluebeam, ONSCREEN Takeoff)

Strong math and computer skills; proficient in MS Office

Strong teamwork, communication, and organizational skills

Ability to perform under pressure and meet deadlines

Strong commitment to safety

Education

Bachelor’s degree or 5-10 years of industry experience

3-5 years estimating or construction field experience

Tools

MII2 software experience

Estimating software (SAGE, RS Means, Bluebeam, ONSCREEN Takeoff)

Job description

Job Summary

Reporting to the Sr. Estimator, the Cost Estimator coordinates people, subcontractors, software, and resources required to deliver accurate estimates. Projects range from fully defined competitive bids to conceptual design‑build efforts and task orders. The Estimator also maintains the company bid schedule and ensures deadlines are met.

Key Tasks

• Review project plans and specifications and confirm full scope with the team
• Identify risks, evaluate magnitude, and propose mitigation options
• Solicit and organize subcontractor and supplier pricing
• Prepare bid instructions, bid forms, and related documents
• Perform or manage quantity takeoffs and pricing for internal budgets in software applications
• Develop conceptual budgets from limited information
• Review general conditions, schedules, scopes of work, site logistics, and related exhibits
• Maintain and document project information throughout the bid process
• Review and scope specialty contractor bids
• Coordinate insurance and bonding requirements with Construction leadership
• Align cost estimate proposals with Business Development and Marketing requirements
• Collaborate with Operations on constructability reviews
• Track and communicate construction and material cost trends
• Analyze alternate methods and value‑engineering options
• Build strong relationships with clients, design teams, contractors, and suppliers
• Assist Project Management with transitioning awarded projects into pre‑construction
• Participate in job kick‑off meetings and project information transfers
• Price change impacts as needed

Education and Training Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or 5-10 years of industry experience.
• 3–5 years estimating or construction field experience; ideally 5+ years of estimating experience working with a commercial or federal estimating department estimating projects in excess of $2 million dollars.
• MII2 software experience preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skill, and Competency Requirements

• Proficiency with estimating software (SAGE, RS Means, Bluebeam, ONSCREEN Takeoff)
• Strong math and computer skills; proficient in MS Office
• Expertise in Commercial vertical construction estimating for federal and private sectors; General Contracting Estimating preferred
• Ability to understand estimating software and to be able to transition to all online platforms as they develop for use
• Strong teamwork, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to perform under pressure and meet deadlines
• Willingness to follow corporate policies and travel minimally as required
• Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to identify discrepancies
• Security clearance preferred
• Strong commitment to safety

Other

• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain security clearance.
• Valid driver’s license and insurance.

Disclaimer

This is not to be an exclusive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the person in this job. G.M. Hill Engineering, Inc. (GMHILL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. GMHILL considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, physical or mental disability, family responsibility, marital status, sexual orientation, political affiliation, veteran's status, or any other legal protected status. The candidate selected must pass a thorough background check (including E-Verify), federal security clearance processes and comply with GMHILL’s Drug and Alcohol policy adhering to pre-employment, random, post-accident and for cause testing.