Construction Estimator

Centex Construction; Lewisville (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Centex Construction is seeking an experienced Estimator to develop accurate proposals for our clients in a timely manner. You will work closely with the Director of Construction, Project Managers, and the sales team to provide detailed cost analyses that support profitability and growth.

The role requires proficiency in reading blueprints, gathering data from job sites, and using estimation software to forecast labor and material costs. Exempt, full-time position in the Dallas–Fort Worth area.

Qualifications

• Excellent estimating skills with an analytic perspective on completing a construction job.
• Proven experience as estimator or similar position.
• Familiarity with financial and project management principles.
• Strong math and IT ability with an analytical mindset.
• Proficient in relevant software.
• Outstanding communication and negotiation abilities.
• Thoroughness and reliability.
• Excellent organizational skills.

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).
• Send proposals that are over $100,000 to the Director of Construction Operations for review and approval.
• Build relationships with key vendors (subcontractors, suppliers, engineers etc.).
• Provide consultation on planning (schedules, manpower needs etc.).

Skills

Analytical Thinking

Attention to Detail

Communication

Time Management

Technical Knowledge

Collaboration

Problem Solving

Education

Certified Professional Estimator (CPE)

Job description

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 DFW Construction Operations

Work location: DFW Metroplex

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).
• Send proposals that are over $100,000 to the Director of Construction Operations for review and approval.
• Build relationships with key vendors (subcontractors, suppliers, engineers etc.).
• Provide consultation on planning (schedules, manpower needs etc.).

Qualifications

• 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.
• Proven experience as estimator or similar position.
• 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.
• Proficient in relevant software.
• Outstanding communication and negotiation abilities.
• Thoroughness and reliability.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) is an asset.

Required Competencies

• 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.