Construction Estimator - Job Order Contracting

CMC Development & Construction; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

CMC Development & Construction is a general contracting firm expanding its Job Order Contracting capabilities. The JOC Estimator will handle cost estimates, scope validation, and coordination with clients and contractors to ensure program-compliant pricing.

This role emphasizes accuracy, documentation, and collaboration across public-sector projects such as K-12, higher education, and healthcare facilities.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of direct experience with JOC programs in construction or owner's representative capacity.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed line-item cost estimates based on project scope, site conditions, and client requirements.

Skills

JOC experience

UPB pricing

Reading drawings (A/E, MEP)

Client & stakeholder communication

Multi-estimate management

Education

Bachelors in Construction Management / Engineering

Tools

e4Clicks

RS Means

Sage 300/Timberline

Procore

Job description

CMC Development & Construction is a general contracting firm built on a foundation of disciplined execution, integrity, and genuine care for the people and communities we serve. We build more than structures — we build careers, client trust, and lasting community impact. As we expand our presence in the public sector construction market, we are growing our Job Order Contracting capabilities and looking for experienced JOC professionals who bring technical precision, program compliance knowledge, and a collaborative approach to complex public-sector work. If you are passionate about delivering exceptional outcomes on JOC programs and want to grow with a company that invests in its people and its future, we want to hear from you.

Position Overview

The JOC Estimator is a specialized pre-construction professional responsible for developing accurate, compliant, and competitive cost estimates within Job Order Contracting program frameworks. This role manages the full JOC estimating lifecycle — from initial site walks and scope development through UPB line-item pricing, coefficient application, stakeholder negotiation, and audit-ready documentation.

The JOC Estimator works across public-sector client environments including K-12 education, higher education, and healthcare facilities, and must bring a deep understanding of coefficient-based pricing models, program compliance requirements, and effective client and contractor collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Cost Development

• Prepare detailed, line-item construction cost estimates based on project scope, site conditions, and client requirements
• Apply appropriate JOC coefficients, modifiers, and adjustment factors in accordance with contract terms and program guidelines
• Utilize Unit Price Book (UPB) line items accurately to reflect actual field conditions and scope requirements
• Ensure all pricing aligns with JOC contract terms, program procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements

Scope Development & Validation

• Participate in site walks and pre-bid meetings to assess project requirements, existing conditions, and scope boundaries
• Collaborate with clients, contractors, and project stakeholders to define, validate, and refine project scope
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and verify field conditions against drawings and specifications
• Translate scope narratives and field observations into accurate, defensible UPB line items

Collaboration & Negotiation

• Work closely with contractors and owners to reconcile estimate differences and resolve scope or pricing discrepancies
• Support pricing negotiations by providing clear cost breakdowns, supporting documentation, and professional justification
• Facilitate alignment between all stakeholders to achieve mutually agreed-upon, program-compliant project pricing
• Serve as a trusted resource and subject matter expert for clients navigating JOC program requirements

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure all estimates comply with JOC program rules, procedures, audit standards, and contract obligations
• Maintain thorough, organized documentation for all estimates, assumptions, scope decisions, and change rationale
• Support internal and external audits by providing clear pricing justification and complete estimating records
• Monitor program compliance across the estimate lifecycle, flagging risks proactively to project leadership

Process Improvement & Market Knowledge

• Identify and implement opportunities to improve estimating accuracy, efficiency, and program alignment
• Maintain current knowledge of construction costs, labor and material market trends, and UPB updates
• Contribute to the ongoing development and refinement of CMC's JOC estimating practices, tools, and templates
• Support the development of junior staff and team members in JOC program knowledge and estimating best practices

Qualifications & Requirements

Required

• 3+ years of direct, hands‑on experience with Job Order Contracting (JOC) programs in a construction or owner's representative capacity
• Demonstrated proficiency with Unit Price Book (UPB) pricing, coefficient-based models, and JOC program compliance
• Experience with public sector construction clients, particularly K-12 education, higher education, or healthcare facilities
• Strong ability to read and interpret full construction document sets — architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings and specifications
• Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to documentation accuracy and audit readiness
• Effective communication and stakeholder collaboration skills; comfortable presenting estimates and cost justifications to clients and agency representatives
• Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent estimates and deadlines in a fast‑paced, compliance‑driven environment
• Knowledge of public procurement processes, contract compliance requirements, and government contracting environments
• Integrity-first mindset aligned with CMC's values and commitment to transparent, ethical client relationships

Preferred

• Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent combination of education and field experience)
• Experience with e4Clicks, RSMeans, or other JOC-specific estimating platforms
• Familiarity with ProCore, Sage 300/Timberline, or similar construction management ERP systems
• LEED, CCM, DBIA, or other relevant professional certifications
• Established relationships within public sector owner communities (school districts, universities, healthcare systems, municipalities)