Construction Estimator - Special Projects/Continuing Contracts

Johnson-Laux Construction; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Johnson-Laux Construction in Orlando is seeking an experienced Special Projects / Continuing Contracts Estimator to own complex commercial estimates and develop competitive proposals. You will review plans and specifications, and manage subcontractor pricing to drive accurate budgets.

You will collaborate with clients, partners, and Operations, leading bids from inception to submission. Strong Excel and estimating software skills are essential in this role.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of full-time commercial estimating experience with a General Contracting firm.
• Read and interpret plans, specs, addendums, and project requirements; perform detailed takeoffs.
• Independently manage the complete estimating process from initial scope review through final proposal.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and estimating software (eGordian, RS Means, Xactimate, Bluebeam, PlanSwift).
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with JOC, IDIQ, Continuing Services, CMAR, or similar contracts is preferred, especially in government/education/airport environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop accurate estimates, including detailed takeoffs, scopes, general conditions, and general requirements.
• Review plans, specifications, addendums, and project requirements.
• Solicit and analyze subcontractor and vendor pricing.
• Prepare conceptual, budget, and historical-cost estimates.
• Use estimating software and pricing resources to develop competitive estimates.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site tours, scope meetings, and post-proposal interviews.
• Prepare, audit, and submit proposals and presentations.
• Manage RFPs, RFQs, RFIs, pricing requests, and preconstruction documentation.
• Review constructability, schedules, and project risks with Operations.
• Manage multiple bids simultaneously while meeting deadlines and maintaining accuracy.

Skills

Commercial estimating

Excel

Bid management

Plans & specs review

Communication & negotiation

Tools

eGordian

RS Means

Xactimate

Bluebeam

PlanSwift

Job description

Build estimates that shape projects from the very beginning.

Johnson-Laux Construction is seeking an experienced Special Projects / Continuing Contracts Estimator to join our team. This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of complex commercial estimates, collaborate with clients and construction partners, and develop competitive proposals for projects ranging from $1K to $20M+.

What You'll Do

• Develop accurate estimates, including detailed takeoffs, scopes, general conditions, and general requirements
• Review plans, specifications, addendums, and project requirements
• Solicit and analyze subcontractor and vendor pricing
• Prepare conceptual, budget, and historical-cost estimates
• Use construction estimating software and pricing resources to develop competitive estimates
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site tours, scope meetings, and post-proposal interviews as needed
• Prepare, audit, and submit proposals and presentations
• Manage RFPs, RFQs, RFIs, pricing requests, and preconstruction documentation
• Review constructability, schedules, and project risks with Operations
• Manage multiple bids simultaneously while meeting deadlines and maintaining accuracy

What We're Looking For

• 3+ years of full-time commercial estimating experience with a General Contracting firm
• Strong knowledge of commercial construction and CSI divisions, with the ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and addendums; perform detailed takeoffs; develop scopes; and analyze subcontractor and vendor proposals across all major trades
• Ability to independently manage the complete estimating process from initial scope review through final proposal
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and construction estimating software, such as eGordian, RS Means, Xactimate, Bluebeam, and/or PlanSwift
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple bids, meet deadlines, identify project risks, and collaborate effectively
• Experience with JOC, IDIQ, Continuing Services, CMAR, or similar contracts is preferred, particularly within government, education, airport/aviation, or institutional environments.

At Johnson-Laux Construction, we value quality, customer service, teamwork, and accountability. Our diverse project portfolio provides experienced construction professionals with the opportunity to work on challenging projects while building lasting relationships with clients and trade partners.