Construction Estimator

MDC Executive Search; California; Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Estimator, Multifamily Construction is needed in Southern California with a hybrid work model (half on-site, half office). The role focuses on pricing ground-up, wood-frame multifamily projects, and managing budgets from concept to buyout.

Ideal candidate has 3+ years of estimating experience, strong knowledge of trades, and proficiency with Bluebeam and Excel. Collaborative team environment with direct interaction with leadership on preconstruction decisions.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of construction estimating experience.
• Multifamily estimating experience, preferably ground-up and wood-frame.
• Proficiency with reading and interpreting construction drawings and specifications.
• Strong knowledge of construction trades, means and methods, and cost structures.
• Ability to perform accurate quantity takeoffs from plans and specifications.
• Clear communication skills and comfort working with leadership.
• Able to manage multiple bids and maintain organized estimating files.

Responsibilities

• Perform quantity takeoffs and prepare detailed cost estimates for ground-up multifamily projects, from concept through final pricing.
• Review drawings, specifications, and scopes of work to identify cost drivers, gaps, and risks.
• Solicit, level, and analyze bids from subcontractors and suppliers, and recommend awards.
• Develop and maintain project budgets, and update estimates as designs evolve.
• Track current material, labor, and subcontractor pricing, and keep cost databases up to date.
• Support value engineering and constructability reviews with the project team and design consultants.
• Work closely with project managers, superintendents, and company leadership on preconstruction planning and budget decisions.
• Help with bid packages, scopes of work, and subcontractor outreach.
• Hand off clear, accurate budgets to the project team at buyout.
• Maintain organized estimating files and project documentation.

Tools

Bluebeam

Excel

Microsoft Office

Smartsheet

Job description

Estimator, Multifamily Construction | Orange County, CA

Position: Full-Time | Half On-Site - Half Office

About the Opportunity

Our client is a growing multifamily developer and builder headquartered in Newport Beach, with a portfolio of more than 2,200 apartments and an active pipeline of new developments. They are seeking a sharp, detail-oriented Estimator to price and budget ground-up, wood-frame multifamily projects throughout Southern California, including the Inland Empire.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working with a smaller, collaborative team and wants a real voice in how projects are priced, budgeted, and bought out.

What You'll Do

• Perform quantity takeoffs and prepare detailed cost estimates for ground-up multifamily projects, from concept through final pricing.
• Review drawings, specifications, and scopes of work to identify cost drivers, gaps, and risks.
• Solicit, level, and analyze bids from subcontractors and suppliers, and recommend awards.
• Develop and maintain project budgets, and update estimates as designs evolve.
• Track current material, labor, and subcontractor pricing, and keep cost databases up to date.
• Support value engineering and constructability reviews with the project team and design consultants.
• Work closely with project managers, superintendents, and company leadership on preconstruction planning and budget decisions.
• Help with bid packages, scopes of work, and subcontractor outreach.
• Hand off clear, accurate budgets to the project team at buyout.
• Maintain organized estimating files and project documentation.

What We're Looking For

• 3+ years of construction estimating experience.
• Multifamily estimating experience, preferably ground-up and wood-frame.
• Affordable housing experience is a plus, but not required.
• Strong working knowledge of construction trades, means and methods, and cost structures.
• Proven ability to perform accurate quantity takeoffs from plans and specifications.
• Proficiency with Bluebeam, Excel, and Microsoft Office. Experience with Smartsheet is a plus.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and subcontractor scopes.
• Strong organization, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple bids at once.
• Clear communication skills and comfort working directly with leadership.
• Comfortable working independently in a smaller company environment.

The Right Fit

We're looking for someone who is organized, practical, and takes pride in getting the numbers right. Someone who asks good questions, catches issues early, and builds trust with subcontractors and the project team.

The ideal candidate is down-to-earth, accountable, and comfortable wearing multiple hats while working closely with company leadership, without unnecessary drama.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Growing company with an active multifamily construction pipeline.
• A meaningful role with real influence on project budgets and decisions.
• Collaborative, accessible leadership team.
• Smaller company environment where your contributions make a difference.
• Opportunity for long-term growth as the company expands.