Construction Estimator

Adams-Bickel Associates, LLC; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Adams-Bickel Associates, LLC is seeking a Construction Estimator to prepare accurate and competitive estimates for commercial renovations, tenant fit-outs, and small project upgrades up to $5 million. The role requires reading drawings, takeoffs, pricing, and bid proposal assembly with independent bid management experience.

Ideal candidates understand construction methods, can interpret specs, and solicit pricing from subcontractors and suppliers.

Qualifications

• Three or more years of construction estimating experience in commercial renovations or small projects.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical drawings and specs.
• Experience soliciting and evaluating contractor and supplier pricing for bids.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings, specifications, addenda, proposals, and other bid documents.
• Prepare quantity takeoffs and detailed estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and costs.
• Identify scope gaps and constructability concerns in bid documents.
• Visit prospective job sites to evaluate conditions and logistics affecting cost.
• Develop scopes of work for specialty contractors and suppliers.
• Solicit pricing and communicate with contractors and vendors during bidding.

Skills

Estimating experience

Commercial construction knowledge

Reading drawings

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field

Tools

PlanSwift

Procore

BuildingConnected

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Salary Range: $75,000–$95,000, dependent upon experience

Position Summary

AdamsBickel is seeking a Construction Estimator to prepare accurate and competitive estimates for commercial renovations, tenant fit-outs, facility improvements, and other small projects generally valued up to $5 million.

The ideal candidate understands commercial construction methods, can read and interpret drawings and specifications, perform quantity takeoffs, solicit and evaluate specialty contractor and supplier pricing, and assemble complete bid proposals. This position is intended for an experienced estimator who can manage smaller bids independently.

Primary Responsibilities

• Review drawings, specifications, addenda, proposals, and other bid documents.
• Prepare quantity takeoffs and detailed estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and specialty contractor costs.
• Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, and work reasonably required but not clearly shown in the bid documents.
• Visit prospective job sites to evaluate existing conditions, access, logistics, scheduling constraints, and other factors affecting cost.
• Develop clear scopes of work for specialty contractors and suppliers.
• Solicit pricing and communicate with specialty contractors, vendors, and suppliers throughout the bidding process.
• Review and compare proposals to confirm scope coverage, exclusions, qualifications, and pricing.
• Respond to technical questions from specialty contractors and suppliers.
• Prepare requests for information and communicate with architects and consultants when bid documents require clarification.
• Review contract documents for unusual requirements, including general conditions, temporary facilities, phasing, working-hour restrictions, and site logistics.
• Prepare conceptual budgets and competitive bids for renovation and fit-out projects.
• Assist with final bid review and preparation of owner proposals.
• Maintain organized takeoffs, pricing, bid notes, and supporting documentation.
• Participate in estimate turnover meetings with project management upon project award.
• Compare estimated costs with actual project costs and use the information to improve future estimates.
• Maintain current knowledge of construction costs, market conditions, and specialty contractor pricing.
• Attend required company meetings and training.
• Perform other estimating-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Three or more years of construction estimating experience, preferably involving commercial renovations, tenant fit-outs, or small projects.
• Working knowledge of commercial construction methods, materials, sequencing, and trade scopes.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings and specifications.
• Ability to perform accurate quantity takeoffs and develop labor and material pricing.
• Experience soliciting, reviewing, and leveling specialty contractor and supplier proposals.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with estimating, operations, and project management personnel.
• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a related field is preferred. Relevant construction experience may be considered in place of a degree.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to prospective job sites within the company’s service area.

Technology Experience with the following is preferred:

• PlanSwift or comparable takeoff software
• Procore
• BuildingConnected or similar bidding platforms
• Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook

Core Values

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Integrity: Conduct business honestly, ethically, and professionally.
• Trust: Build dependable relationships through consistent actions and communication.
• Accountability: Take responsibility for the accuracy, quality, and timeliness of assigned work.
• Pursuit of Excellence: Continuously seek ways to improve estimating accuracy, efficiency, and results.