Estimator

Just Construction Recruitment; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Just Construction Recruitment in Charlotte, NC, is seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead the estimating activities for complex commercial projects across the Carolinas. This senior preconstruction role focuses on accurate conceptual and hard-bid estimates, collaborating with Owners, design teams, project management, and trade partners.

You will develop estimating strategies, maintain market intelligence, and ensure competitive, precise estimates aligned with project goals, while

Qualifications

• 8+ years of commercial construction estimating experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual, schematic, GMP, negotiated, and hard-bid estimates for commercial projects.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical

Attention to detail

Communication

Subcontractor relations

Risk management

Multitasking

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction

Tools

Destiny (Beck Technology)

Job description

A leading, family-owned construction organization delivering complex commercial projects across the Carolinas. The company provides expertise across construction management, design-build, virtual construction, green building, and public-private partnerships. With a strong focus on developing its people, continuous learning, employee wellbeing, and community involvement, the organization has built a collaborative culture focused on long-term success and professional development.

About the Role

The company is seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead and oversee estimating activities across a range of commercial construction projects. This is a senior preconstruction position responsible for providing accurate estimating data for both conceptual and hard-bid opportunities, while working closely with Owners, Design Teams, Project Management, subcontractors, and trade partners. The Chief Estimator will play a key role in developing estimating strategies, maintaining market intelligence, and ensuring estimates are competitive, accurate, and aligned with project requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual, schematic, GMP, negotiated, and hard-bid estimates for commercial construction projects.
• Review drawings, specifications, proposals, and other construction documents to develop detailed estimates.
• Coordinate and oversee plan/specification hard-dollar estimates and competitive bids.
• Develop conceptual estimates with detailed scope narratives, quantity takeoffs, and unit-price breakdowns.
• Establish and maintain accurate in-house unit pricing, labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor cost data across multiple markets.
• Lead the solicitation, analysis, and leveling of subcontractor and supplier proposals.
• Develop procurement and bidding strategies to maximize project value and competitiveness.
• Identify scope gaps, risk exposure, exclusions, and opportunities throughout the estimating process.
• Perform value management and provide cost-saving recommendations to Owners and Design Teams.
• Prepare preliminary budgets, cost models, bid schedules, and final contract estimates.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, Owners, and design professionals.
• Review and execute subcontract agreements and assist with procurement strategy.
• Mentor and develop Estimators and Preconstruction professionals within the team.
• Collaborate closely with Project Management and Operations to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction into construction.
• Maintain current knowledge of market conditions, labor costs, material pricing, and regional construction trends.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of commercial construction estimating experience, preferably within a General Contractor environment.
• Proven experience leading estimates from conceptual design through final bid/contract.
• Strong understanding of commercial construction methods, materials, subcontractor markets, and project delivery methods.
• Experience managing or mentoring Estimators/Preconstruction professionals preferred.
• Experience with complex, high-value commercial projects strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with estimating software; experience with Destiny (Beck Technology) preferred but not required.

Required Skills

• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain strong subcontractor and supplier relationships.
• Commercially minded with a strong understanding of project risk and cost.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and competing deadlines.
• Collaborative approach with the ability to work effectively with Owners, Design Teams, and Project Management.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with complex, high-value commercial projects.
• Experience with Destiny (Beck Technology) estimating software.