Estimator

Cornerstone Detention Products; Hartselle (AL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Cornerstone Detention Products seeks a detail-oriented Preconstruction Estimator to support detention facility projects from concept through award. You will study drawings and specifications, perform quantity take-offs for labor, materials, and detention components, and drive bid submissions.

Responsibilities include soliciting bids, negotiating terms, identifying risks, and maintaining vendor relationships while providing turnover packages to project teams.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Science, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• 5+ years of estimating experience.
• Experience with Sage/Timberline estimating software.
• Experience in commercial or specialty construction estimating.

Responsibilities

• Review architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
• Perform detailed quantity take-offs for labor, materials, equipment, and detention-related components.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor bids.
• Negotiate pricing and purchasing terms with suppliers and subcontractors.
• Identify scope gaps, potential risks, and value engineering opportunities.
• Prepare and submit competitive bid proposals.
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and project stakeholders.
• Maintain procurement records and approved vendor lists.
• Assist in contract review, insurance compliance, bonding requirements, and preconstruction meetings.
• Provide complete project turnover packages to project management teams.
• Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and market pricing.

Skills

Estimating & take-offs

Bid preparation

Vendor & subcontractor management

Contract review

Attention to detail

Time management

Professional communication

Negotiation skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Science, Engineering, Architecture, or related field

Tools

Sage/Timberline

Job description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Preconstruction Estimator to join our growing team specializing in detention facility construction projects. This position plays a critical role in project success by developing accurate cost estimates, managing bid processes, evaluating subcontractor and vendor proposals, and supporting preconstruction activities from concept through project award.

If you enjoy analyzing construction documents, building strong industry relationships, and helping secure successful projects, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Review architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documents
• Perform detailed quantity take-offs for labor, materials, equipment, and detention-related components
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor bids
• Negotiate pricing and purchasing terms with suppliers and subcontractors
• Identify scope gaps, potential risks, and value engineering opportunities
• Prepare and submit competitive bid proposals
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and project stakeholders
• Maintain procurement records and approved vendor lists
• Assist in contract review, insurance compliance, bonding requirements, and preconstruction meetings
• Provide complete project turnover packages to project management teams
• Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and market pricing

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Science, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field
• 5+ years of estimating experience
• Experience with Sage/Timberline estimating software
• Experience in commercial or specialty construction estimating

Skills & Competencies

• Construction estimating and quantity take-offs
• Bid preparation and project costing
• Vendor and subcontractor management
• Contract and scope review
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Time management and multitasking
• Professional communication and negotiation skills
• Ethical business practices and sound judgment

Work Environment

• Primarily office-based, non-smoking work environment
• Occasional travel may be required
• Ability to sit for extended periods

EOE/M/F/Veteran/Disabled