Construction Estimator

RBA Builders LLC; Fountain Valley (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction company seeks an Estimator to join their Fountain Valley team. This role involves preparing accurate cost estimates for commercial projects. The successful candidate will take ownership of specific scopes and will collaborate with senior team members on bidding strategies. Ideal candidates will have strong communication skills and experience in the construction field, especially in healthcare or educational projects.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan with company matching

Paid time off and holiday pay

Qualifications

• Candidates should have 25 years of estimating experience in commercial construction.
• Familiarity with CSI divisions and drawing/spec review is required.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage deadlines across multiple active bids.

Responsibilities

• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop scope sheets.
• Evaluate subcontractor bids for completeness and assist with bid-leveling.
• Collaborate with project teams to evaluate constructability concerns.

Skills

Proficiency in reading and interpreting plans and specifications

Microsoft Excel

Bluebeam

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in construction management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field

Tools

Takeoff software

Estimating templates

Procore

Building Connected

Job description

RBA Builders is a full, General Contractor with self-performing tenant improvement division offering services in the commercial, industrial, entertainment, educational, aerospace and medical fields.

Our loyal and dedicated team is committed to identifying and executing solutions for our clients that exceed their expectations bringing in new and emerging technologies and industry standard practices to deliver successful projects to our customers.

We remain true to our founding values of safety, quality, honesty, and hard work, and above all the service that creates valued relationships. These values are expressed in our four Core Values of 1) Do the right thing even when it is inconvenient, 2) Fun, family, fellowship, 3) We are here for your, and 4) Fiscally committed to team's success. These Core Values manifest in how we treat our internal customers, our external customers, and drive positive change in the industry.

We are RBA Builders LLC, and we are committed to becoming your Contractor of Choice.

RBA Builders LLC is located in Southern California in the city of Fountain Valley.

Job Overview :

The Estimator is responsible for supporting the preparation of accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial construction projects. This role requires prior experience in estimating and a solid understanding of construction means and methods, basic constructability, and schedule impact awareness. The Estimator works under the guidance of senior team members but is expected to take ownership of specific scopes, perform quantity takeoffs, and contribute meaningfully to bid strategy and execution.

Responsibilities :

This role includes performing quantity takeoffs, developing scope sheets, evaluating subcontractor bids for completeness, writing scope clarifications, assisting with bid-leveling and comparisons, tracking addenda and RFI responses, and preparing internal estimate documents. The Estimator also collaborates with the project team to evaluate constructability concerns and scheduling constraints during the preconstruction phase

Requirements :

Candidates must have previous experience in estimating commercial construction projects, including familiarity with CSI divisions, drawing / spec review, and trade-specific scopes. A working knowledge of constructability and how construction sequencing affects schedule and cost is required. Candidates should be organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage deadlines across multiple active bids.

Education :

A bachelors degree in construction management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field is preferred.

Experience :

Candidates should have 25 years of estimating experience in commercial construction. Experience with general contracting or construction management firms is ideal.

Skills :

Proficiency in reading and interpreting plans and specifications is essential. Candidates must be proficient in Microsoft Excel and Bluebeam, with the ability to use takeoff software and estimating templates. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required for interacting with subcontractors, vendors, and internal teams.

Abilities :

The Estimator must be able to work independently, take initiative in resolving scope gaps or bid inconsistencies, and collaborate with senior estimators and project teams. The candidate should be capable of identifying value engineering opportunities, understanding schedule impacts of certain scopes, and applying critical thinking to cost assumptions.

Certifications :

No certifications are required, though OSHA 10 and familiarity with LEED or DBIA principles are beneficial.

Preferred Qualifications :

Experience working on projects in healthcare, higher education, or entertainment sectors is preferred. Familiarity with Procore, Building Connected, or other estimating / project management tools is a plus.

Working Conditions :

This is primarily an office-based role with occasional site visits or attendance at pre-bid meetings. Standard business hours apply, with some extended hours required during major bid periods.

Benefits :

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement plan with company matching.
• Paid time off and holiday pay.

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