Construction Estimator

Centex Construction Company; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Centex Construction Company in Atlanta, GA is seeking a Construction Estimator to develop accurate cost proposals for projects in a timely manner. You will work closely with the Director of Construction Operations, Project Manager, and sales team to translate drawings into detailed bids.

The role combines field insights with office analysis, requires reading blueprints, gathering quotes from subcontractors, and using estimation software to forecast labor, materials, and equipment costs.

Qualifications

• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints and designs.
• Strong estimation skills with an analytical mindset.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
• Familiarity with financial and project management principles.
• Proficient in estimation software and data analysis methods.

Responsibilities

• Understand project scope and local labor/material costs.
• Determine cost variables and estimate details.
• Read and interpret blueprints and designs.
• Gather quotes from subcontractors and suppliers for accurate bids.
• Research labor costs, materials, and production times; maintain cost category records.
• Use software for data analysis, forecasting and budgeting.
• Manage RFPs, deadlines, costs and billing information.
• Obtain and review offers from subcontractors or vendors.
• Generate bids and establish timelines and margins.
• Perform risk analysis for multi-month projects.
• Prepare and submit estimate reports to Sales, PMs, and Directors.

Skills

Communication skills

Math proficiency

Attention to detail

Analytical thinking

Negotiation abilities

Team collaboration

Tools

Xactimate

Job description

Construction Estimator

Centex Construction Company Atlanta, Georgia, United States

About this position

Job Summary

Estimators are essential to the success of our organization and critical in producing accurate proposals for our customers in a timely manner. Our estimators will work closely with the Director of Construction, Project Manager, and the sales team in your market. Estimators provide a detailed cost analysis for a project in a timely manner so that the company can make informed decisions that will enhance its profitability and growth.

Job Type: Full Type

FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports to: Director of Construction Operations

Work location: Atlanta, GA

Duties and Responsibilities

• Understand the project and the local cost for labor and materials.
• Determine key variables for cost and other estimates.
• Be proficient in reading and understanding blueprints and design.
• Gather first-hand information from the job site, meet subcontractors and suppliers to accurately complete a proposal.
• Conduct research to obtain data on labor costs, materials, production times etc., keeping a record of each category for cost comparison between jobs.
• Use software for data analysis, forecasting and budgeting.
• Work within appropriate systems to manage RFPs, due dates, cost, and billing information.
• Obtain and review offers and quotes by subcontractors or vendors.
• Generate sales through trust with a customer and providing an accurate and timely bid.
• Perform risk analysis of projects that are projected for a 6 month or longer duration.
• Create and submit estimate reports or bids to appropriate persons (Sales, Project Managers, clients, Director of Construction).
• Build relationships with key vendors (subcontractors, suppliers, engineers etc.).
• Provide consultation on planning (schedules, manpower needs etc.).

Qualifications

• Must be proficient in Xactimate
• Extraordinary people skills allowing successful communication with clients and internal personnel.
• Excellent estimating skills with an analytic perspective on completing a construction job; thorough and apt in managing relationships with key clients.
• Familiarity with financial and project management principles.
• Efficient and timely dealing with a volume of requests while delivering comprehensive proposals.
• In depth knowledge of research and data analysis methods and estimation formulas.
• Strong math and IT ability with an analytical mindset.
• Outstanding communication and negotiation abilities.
• Thoroughness and reliability.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) is an asset.
• Analytical Thinking – ability to interpret complex data, identify cost drivers, and provide accurate estimates.
• Attention to Detail – thoroughness in reviewing blueprints, specifications, and vendor proposals.
• Communication – clear and professional interaction with clients, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Time Management – ability to prioritize and manage multiple bids simultaneously under strict deadlines.
• Technical Knowledge – proficiency in estimation software, construction methods, and industry best practices.
• Collaboration – strong ability to build and maintain relationships with vendors, project teams, and clients.
• Problem Solving – resourcefulness in resolving pricing challenges and project risks.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

This role combines field and office work. The Estimator must lift materials, climb multiple stories, and work outdoors in varied weather. Office duties include email correspondence and project documentation. Proper safety practices and PPE minimize hazards. The position requires managing a busy workload with occasional long or weekend hours, frequent travel by car, and regular use of a personal cell phone.

Duties in the job description may be added or changed as needed. Employees must meet job-related qualifications and be able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by applicable law.