Estimating Intern (Summer 2027)

Stfrancis; Milford (CT); On-site; USD 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Stfrancis is seeking a motivated estimator assistant to support detailed material, labor, and system cost estimates. You will perform quantity takeoffs, compile cost data, and help maintain estimating databases, collaborating with engineers, architects, and subcontractors.

Candidates pursuing a construction-related degree with strong Excel skills and a basic understanding of drawings and specs are preferred.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in CM, CE, or related field.
• Foundational understanding of construction processes, materials, systems, and terminology.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel for cost tracking.
• Familiarity with estimating tools such as Bluebeam or On-Screen Takeoff is a plus.
• Experience organizing or contributing to bid documentation and cost databases.
• Knowledge of unit pricing, quantity takeoffs, and cost estimating principles.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Attention to detail and effective organizational skills.
• Time management in a fast-paced environment.
• Analytical thinking and problem solving.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team-oriented environment.
• Adaptability and curiosity to learn new systems and technologies in estimating.

Responsibilities

• Assist with quantity take-offs, unit pricing, and cost comparisons.
• Compile detailed estimates for materials, labor, and systems; document assumptions.
• Manage subcontractor lists and contacts; maintain estimating databases and records.
• Conduct site visits to collect data and analyze historical cost data.
• Prepare and reconcile estimates against past projects; monitor actual vs estimated expenditures.
• Coordinate with engineers, architects, subcontractors, and internal teams.
• Support bid development; maintain tender documentation and participate in value-engineering sessions.
• Utilize cost-monitoring systems to identify risks or variances; inform negotiations and decisions.
• Maintain precise updates in estimating databases and project files; ensure compliance with procedures.

Skills

Reading drawings

Excel proficiency

Cost estimating principles

Bid documentation

Quantity takeoffs

Vendor research

Team collaboration

Time management

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field

Tools

Bluebeam

On-Screen Takeoff

Job description

Your Role

Here's what you will be doing:

• Assist with quantity take-offs, unit pricing, and cost comparisons; compile detailed estimates for materials, labor, and project systems, documenting assumptions and qualifications.
• Manage subcontractor lists and contacts, conduct research on products and suppliers, and maintain accurate estimating databases and records.
• Conduct site visits to collect project-specific data such as access, topography, and utilities; analyze historical cost data to support bids.
• Prepare and reconcile cost estimates against previous projects and assist in monitoring actual versus estimated expenditures to assess cost effectiveness.
• Coordinate with engineers, architects, subcontractors, and internal teams throughout the estimating process.
• Support bid development by preparing expenditure statements, maintaining tender documentation, and participating in estimate review and value-engineering sessions.
• Utilize cost-monitoring systems to identify potential risks or variances, contributing to negotiations and decision-making.
• Maintain precise and timely updates in estimating databases and project files to ensure smooth workflows and compliance with company procedures.

About You

The company is looking for:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field, with a strong preference for construction-focused programs.
• Foundational understanding of construction processes, materials, systems, and terminology.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel for cost tracking and analysis.
• Familiarity with estimating tools or software such as Bluebeam or On-Screen Takeoff is a plus.
• Capable of conducting vendor, material, and cost research to support pricing accuracy.
• Experience organizing or contributing to bid documentation, cost databases, and takeoff files is preferred.
• Basic knowledge of unit pricing, quantity takeoffs, and cost estimating principles.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and effective organizational skills.
• Time management skills to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team-oriented environment.
• Adaptability and curiosity to learn new systems, methods, and technologies relevant to estimating.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly wage ranging from $24 to $29.
• Full-time, 40 hours per week, in-person schedule.