Estimator

Populus Recruiting; Shawnee (KS); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruiting firm is seeking an experienced estimator for a commercial construction role. The candidate should have 3 to 8+ years of estimating experience and a strong ability to understand complex drawings. Responsibilities include reviewing construction documents, soliciting bids, and preparing competitive estimates. Proficiency in estimating software is essential. Ideal applicants will possess excellent communication skills and have a background in commercial sectors like healthcare and retail.

Qualifications

• 3–8+ years of progressive estimating experience in commercial construction.
• Proven track record preparing competitive bids as a general contractor estimator.
• Strong ability to read and interpret complex construction drawings.

Responsibilities

• Review architectural drawings to understand project scope.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for all divisions of work.
• Solicit and analyze subcontractor bids and negotiate pricing.

Skills

Estimating experience

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or related field

Tools

Procore

PlanSwift

Bluebeam

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Review architectural, structural, civil, MEP, and other construction drawings, specifications, and addenda to fully understand project scope.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for all divisions of work (concrete, masonry, steel, finishes, specialties, MEP, sitework, etc.).
• Solicit, receive, analyze, and scope subcontractor and supplier bids/quotes; negotiate pricing and clarify scopes to ensure complete coverage.
• Develop accurate cost estimates including labor, material, equipment, subcontractor costs, general conditions, overhead, profit, bonds, insurance, and contingencies.
• Prepare conceptual / schematic design estimates, design development budgets, and guaranteed maximum price (GMP) or hard-bid proposals.
• Identify value engineering opportunities, constructability issues, and potential project risks; present alternatives to project teams and clients.
• Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, architects, engineers, and owners during pre-bid and preconstruction phases.
• Assemble clear, professional bid proposals, scope clarifications, and bid documents for submission.
• Participate in bid reviews, post-bid clarifications, and turnover meetings to operations teams.
• Maintain and update unit cost databases, historical cost data, and estimating templates/software.
• Support marketing efforts by providing conceptual budgets and assisting with proposal narratives when needed.
• Stay current on market pricing trends, labor rates, material costs, and construction best practices in the commercial sector.

Required Qualifications

• 3–8+ years of progressive estimating experience in commercial construction (office, retail, healthcare, hospitality, industrial, or similar).
• Proven track record preparing competitive bids as a general contractor estimator (experience with both hard-bid and negotiated/GMP projects preferred).
• Strong ability to read and interpret complex construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.
• Excellent mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in construction estimating software (e.g., Procore, PlanSwift, Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Sage Estimating/Timberline, DESTINI, or similar).
• Solid understanding of commercial construction means and methods, building codes, and industry standards.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for working with subcontractors, vendors, design teams, and internal staff.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or related field (or equivalent field experience).
• Experience with conceptual estimating, design-assist projects, and/or public sector/commercial bidding.
• Familiarity with LEED/sustainable construction practices and cost impacts.
• OSHA 10 or 30 certification.
• Local market knowledge (regional material/labor pricing and subcontractor networks).