Construction Estimator Director

Wynen's; Lincolnwood (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Wynen's in Lincolnwood, IL seeks a skilled estimator and purchasing leader to own the preconstruction process and protect project margins for residential design-build projects. You will lead cost estimating with material takeoffs, manage purchasing and vendor relations, coordinate with design, production and accounting, and mentor staff to drive accuracy and process improvements.

This role demands strong negotiation, cross-functional collaboration, and a hands-on approach to ensure on-time,

Qualifications

• Residential construction estimating and preconstruction workflows.
• Negotiation and vendor/subcontractor management.
• Ability to manage purchasing, work orders, and cost reporting with accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead cost estimating, including material takeoffs.
• Manage purchasing activities, including work order creation and vendor coordination.
• Negotiate with vendors and subcontractors to support pricing, scope, and availability.
• Produce and maintain project cost reporting and related documentation.
• Collaborate closely with production, design, and accounting teams to align budgets and project needs.
• Support and develop estimating/purchasing staff through guidance, process improvements, and mentoring.

Skills

Residential construction estimating

Vendor/subcontractor management

Cost reporting

Leadership / staff development

Cross-functional collaboration

Negotiation

Job description

Role Summary

Lead estimating, purchasing, vendor management, and preconstruction operations for residential design-build projects. Own the preconstruction process to protect project margins and drive accurate, well-managed costs.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead cost estimating, including material takeoffs.
• Manage purchasing activities, including work order creation and vendor coordination.
• Negotiate with vendors and subcontractors to support pricing, scope, and availability.
• Produce and maintain project cost reporting and related documentation.
• Collaborate closely with production, design, and accounting teams to align budgets and project needs.
• Support and develop estimating/purchasing staff through guidance, process improvements, and mentoring.

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong knowledge of residential construction estimating and preconstruction workflows.
• Proven negotiation and vendor/subcontractor management skills.
• Ability to manage purchasing, work orders, and cost reporting with accuracy.
• Excellent cross-functional communication and collaboration.
• Leadership capability with focus on staff development and margin protection.