Cost Estimator

Richard; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 78,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Cost Estimator to join their innovative team in Chicago. This role offers the chance to work on purpose-driven projects that truly matter, from healthcare facilities to cutting-edge data centers. As a vital part of the estimating team, you'll review project plans, prepare detailed cost estimates, and ensure competitive pricing. With a culture-first approach and a commitment to personal growth, this is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of construction while making a real impact in the industry. Experience the perfect blend of startup excitement and established stability, where your ideas and contributions will be valued.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Health Savings Account (HSA)

15 days of paid time off (PTO)

7 paid holidays

Quarterly Bonus Program

401(k) matching contributions

Parental leave policy

Transportation cost coverage

On-site meal program

Gym membership reimbursement

Qualifications

• 2-15+ years of all trade estimating experience required.
• Experience with bidding federal & private sector projects essential.
• Proficient in estimating software and Excel; must be self-sufficient.

Responsibilities

• Reviews project plans to develop scope of work and cost estimates.
• Prepares bid packages and reviews bids for accuracy.
• Coordinates with estimators on the bid process.

Skills

Estimating Software

Excel

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Construction Means and Methods

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering

Bachelor’s Degree in MEP Engineering

Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management

Tools

ITB Software

Estimating Software

Job description

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Position: Cost Estimator (All Trades/MEP)

Department: Estimating/Preconstruction

Reports to: Preconstruction Manager

Location: Chicago, IL. (West Loop) (WFH 1 Day/Week)

Employment Type & Shift: Full-time benefits eligible

Join Richard, Purpose Builders: Where Your Impact Matters

At Richard, we're not just another construction company – we're the catalyst for change in the industry. As one of the fastest-growing general contractors in the nation, we offer the excitement and innovation of a startup with the stability and expertise of an established firm. We're seeking visionaries who are ready to break free from the constraints of traditional construction and make a real impact.

Why Choose Richard?

• Culture-First Approach: People and innovation over bottom line
• Purpose-Driven Projects: Build structures that truly matter, from critical healthcare facilities to cutting-edge data centers
• Rapid Growth: Be part of a company doubling in size while maintaining quality
• Collaborative, Caring Culture: Clear communication and proactive problem-solving, while supporting your health, financial wellness, and career growth
• Direct Impact: Your ideas shape our projects and company direction
• Innovation Freedom: Be at the forefront of construction technology and sustainable practices
  
  

At Richard, you're not just a number – you're a crucial part of our mission to transform the construction industry. We're creating efficient, dynamic spaces that advance communities, sustainability, and well-being. With nearly 200 diverse contracts since 2016 and a passionate team across the nation, we offer the resources of a large firm with the agility and personal touch of a boutique operation.

Break free from corporate constraints. Join Richard, Purpose Builders, and be the architect of your career while shaping the future of construction. Here, your voice is heard, your ideas matter, and your impact is visible.

Responsibilities

• Reviews project plans, requirements and specifications to develop a comprehensive understanding of the project and develop scope of work, labor, and equipment costs
• Initiates RFIs as needed for accurate and competitive pricing
• Prepares quantity takeoffs and pricing of scope either through self-perform production-based estimating or unit price estimating
• Assists with estimating preparation and ITB software
• Reviews and understands all bid documents and material requirements to assess constructability and product material requirements
• Prepares bid packages
• Reviews all bids across subcontractors to ensure pricing comparisons are accurate and all missing items are recorded and accounted for
• Prepares estimates according to the requirements of multiple delivery systems
• Reviews quotes and estimates with the project management team
• Understands FAR clauses, the self-performance requirements on Government Contracts
  
  

Mandatory Qualifications

• 2-15+ years of all trade estimating experience
• Experience bidding federal & private sector projects
• Proficient in estimating software and Excel; must be self-sufficient
• Experience bidding commercial building projects
• Experience with design-bid-build and design-build
• Able to produce detailed estimates for 5+ different trade packages
• Experience with construction means and methods, costs and engineering principles
• Engages and coordinates with Estimators on the bid
• Understands costs and market conditions
• Accurately estimates time required to complete actions and activities
• A motivated and driven individual with strong organizational and communication skills
• Able to prioritize tasks in a high-pressure bidding environment
• Advanced computer skills with estimating software
• A desire to stay and grow with a company that will help mentor, train, and educate you
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Assisting with the bid process
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, MEP Engineering or Construction Management
• Expertise in building construction
• Experience in a competitive hard bidding environment
• Experience bidding healthcare, and design-build projects
• Experience with Davis Bacon-Prevailing wage or Union required projects
• Experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs, GSA, USACE, Army, Navy, NAVFAC
  
  

Benefits

At Richard, we believe in showing the same gratitude and care to our team members that we do in our projects. This position comes with a competitive salary to match your level of experience and includes competitive benefits such as:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) available
• 15 days of paid time off (PTO)
• 7 paid holidays
• Richard's Quarterly Bonus Program is effective immediately to all employees, given they have met their 90-day new hire waiting period
• Company 401(k) matching contributions
• Parental leave policy
• We fully cover transportation costs, including parking and train fares, for employees working from our Chicago office
• Affordable and freshly made breakfast and lunch provided through our on-site meal program (Chicago home office employees only)
• Gym membership reimbursement program (Chicago home office employees only)
• All employees immediately have access to mentorship, regular skills-based training, and leadership development programs
  
  

Pay Range

$78,000 - $125,000+ (DOE)

The base salary range for this position as of posting is Richard’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation for this role. The range for this role takes into account the factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs.

Richard is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants and employees will receive equal employment opportunities without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management and Manufacturing

• Industries

  Construction

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