Estimator

DEW Construction; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

DEW Construction is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our team. The role focuses on planning, coordinating, and estimating projects under the guidance of the Senior Estimator.

Primary duties include reviewing specs, preparing complete takeoffs, and analyzing bids from subcontractors to ensure competitive and accurate estimates. Strong communication and numerical skills are essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or related technical field.
• 1–4 years estimating, cost control or engineering experience, with at least 4 years in estimating.
• Experience with estimating software such as Timberline and take-off tools.
• Understanding of engineering disciplines, cost control, and data analysis for bids.

Responsibilities

• Review specifications and drawings to determine scope and content of estimates.
• Investigate site conditions and identify waste areas, borrow areas, and dumpsites.
• Prepare estimates by performing complete takeoffs and pricing items.
• Review subcontractor and vendor quotes and liaise during bidding process.
• Maintain organized files and price data as back-up for estimate figures.
• Support Senior Estimator and Director of Estimating during bids.

Skills

Communication skills

Math & analytical skills

Computer skills

CPM scheduling

Education

4-year engineering degree or equivalent

Tools

Timberline

On-Screen Take-off

Job description

We are looking for an experienced Estimator to join our team. This position will be primarily responsible for planning, coordinating, and estimating projects as directed by the Senior Estimator in charge of the project.

DEW’s Vision, Mission, And Core Values

• Vision Statement: To be the go-to construction partner known for our unwavering commitment to the success of every project.
• Mission Statement: To build a team of professionals who share our core values and foster a culture where everyone can thrive and grow together.
• Core Values:
  • Optimism: We share a positive mindset, believing in opportunities over obstacles.
  • Initiative: We are self‑motivated, proactive problem solvers.
  • Accountability: We are committed to a culture of ownership, personal accountability, and safety.

DEW’s Vision, Mission, and Core Values are explicitly integrated into our daily decision‑making, leadership behaviors, employee training, performance evaluations, and company culture. We use them as a guiding principle for all activities and hold employees accountable for upholding them, essentially making them a tangible part of the company's identity and operations. Our aim is to ensure we are aware of these guiding principles and feel motivated and encouraged to continue integrating them into our daily lives.

Essential Functions

• Reviews specifications, drawings and attends pre‑bid meetings, etc. to determine the scope of work and required contents of estimate
• Investigates site conditions before bidding, identifying the waste area, borrow area, and dumpsites
• Reviews design options and recommends the best solution based on cost, engineering quality, or availability of materials
• Uses historical unit price and productivity data
• Reviews and incorporates historical data from purchase orders, subcontracts, productivity analysis reports, etc. into unit and man hour figures
• Determines and understands critical path schedule and sequence of work
• Investigates value engineering options
• Prepares estimates by calculating complete takeoff of scope of work; prices individual work items
• Reviews terms and conditions of subcontractor and vendor quotes; serves as liaison with subcontractors and vendors during the bidding process
• Maintains files of working documents as back‑up for estimate figures, including current (accurate) information on prices from suppliers
• Reviews all pricing with the Senior Estimator and Director of Estimating
• Provides technical support to personnel preparing estimates for assigned bids
• Sets up budgets
• Participates in presentations to clients (if required)
• Visits project sites to observe construction methods
• Ensures all working documents and data are maintained to back‑up estimate figures
• Maintains skills for software tools and technology utilized
• Participates in project hand‑off meetings; attends meetings with supplies and subs (as needed)
• Communicates and reinforces the Company vision, values, and goals
• Performs additional assignments per supervisor’s direction

Expected Outcomes

• Assigned estimates are completed and on time, and done so in a professional and competitive manner
• Estimates are accurate and consider risk factors and construction methods
• Completed projects, utilizing assigned estimates, were profitable
• Positive Company image is made with clients, potential clients, vendors and subcontractors
• Good working relationships with subcontractors, maintaining ethical standards

Essential Skills And Experience

• 4‑year engineering degree or equivalent combinations technical training and/or related experience
• 1‑4 years estimating, cost control, and/or engineering experience (at least 4 years estimating experience in similar construction); basic CPM scheduling skills
• Experience with estimating software, Timberline, On‑Screen Take‑off, etc.
• Extensive knowledge of company procedures, estimating techniques, all engineering disciplines, cost control systems, and accounts required
• Advanced math and computer skills
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.