Estimator

Appleton Finn; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Appleton Finn in Los Angeles, CA seeks an experienced Construction Cost Estimator to own estimates for smaller projects or components of larger bids. You will perform detailed quantity takeoffs for labour, equipment, and materials, and solicit competitive pricing from subcontractors and suppliers to build accurate estimates.

You will support the lead estimator with material development, tender prep, RFIs, and scope requirements, while coordinating bids and ensuring documentation is complete for

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in a relevant discipline, trade experience, or an equivalent combination.
• Minimum of 2 years of progressive experience in construction cost estimating.
• Experience supporting or leading project pursuits up to $10 million across delivery methods.
• Strong knowledge of drawings, specifications, materials, construction methods and procedures.
• Foundational knowledge of bid preparation, pricing, subcontractor procurement and bid closing.

Responsibilities

• Takes ownership of complete estimates for smaller projects or designated components of larger estimates, reviewing bid documents.
• Completes detailed quantity takeoffs for labour, equipment, and materials across self-perform and subcontracted work.
• Solicits and evaluates competitive pricing from subcontractors, trade partners, and suppliers.
• Applies material unit prices, allowances, and labour productivity rates to develop accurate estimates.
• Supports the lead estimator with material quantity development, tender form preparation, RFIs, and scope requirements.
• Assists with coordination and preparation of bids, including bid-day activities and tender submissions.
• Reviews project documents for potential scope requirements, exclusions, gaps, and opportunities affecting the estimate.
• Maintains accurate, organized estimate documentation and handover-ready records.
• Builds and maintains relationships with estimators, bid coordinators, subcontractors, trade partners, and suppliers.
• Supports the estimating team throughout the pursuit process and bid submission.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree or diploma

Tools

Estimating software

Microsoft Office

Job description

• Takes ownership of complete estimates for smaller projects or designated components of larger estimates, reviewing all associated bid and tender documents.
• Completes detailed quantity takeoffs for labour, equipment, and materials across self-perform and subcontracted work.
• Solicits and evaluates competitive pricing from subcontractors, trade partners, and suppliers to support project pursuits.
• Applies appropriate material unit prices, allowances, and labour productivity rates to develop accurate estimates.
• Supports the lead estimator with material quantity development, tender form preparation, requests for information, and identification of proposal and scope requirements.
• Assists with the coordination and preparation of bids, including supporting bid-day activities and tender submissions.
• Reviews project documents and identifies potential scope requirements, exclusions, gaps, and opportunities that may affect the estimate.
• Maintains accurate and organized estimate documentation, ensuring all relevant information is properly documented, controlled, and archived for successful handover to the project team.
• Builds and maintains effective working relationships with key stakeholders, including estimators, bid coordinators, subcontractors, trade partners, and suppliers.
• Supports the estimating team throughout the pursuit process, contributing to the preparation, review, and submission of competitive bids.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in a relevant discipline, trade experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of progressive experience in construction cost estimating or relevant construction industry experience preferred.
• Experience successfully supporting or leading project pursuits valued up to $10 million across a range of project delivery methods.
• Strong general construction knowledge, including an understanding of drawings, specifications, materials, construction methods, and procedures.
• Familiarity with a range of project delivery methods, including hard bid, Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP), unit price, design-build, target price, and cost-reimbursable models.
• Foundational knowledge of bid preparation principles, including quantity takeoffs, estimating systems, subcontractor procurement, interdepartmental coordination, pricing, compensation models, expense considerations, and bid-closing procedures.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines effectively.
• Ability to establish and maintain productive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including subcontractors and suppliers.
• Working knowledge of estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite, with a strong aptitude for learning and adopting new technologies.