Estimator

McCullough Construction; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

McCullough Construction is seeking an experienced Estimator in Washington, DC. Responsibilities include managing the bid process, preparing budgets, and coordinating project startups. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in construction estimating, a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Construction Management, and proficiency in Microsoft Office. They should possess strong communication skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. Join McCullough and contribute to building projects that shape the city's landscape.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in construction estimating or preconstruction.
• Experience in multi-family and commercial projects preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple bids accurately while meeting deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Prepare conceptual budgets from project information.
• Manage the comprehensive bid process and organize bid documents.
• Coordinate with owners and design teams regarding scope adjustments.
• Assist in project startup activities, including permitting and kick-off meetings.

Skills

Budgeting and Estimating

Bid Management

Project Startup Coordination

Microsoft Office Proficiency

Strong Communication Skills

Time Management

Team Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Construction Management

Tools

Primavera

MS Project

Job description

McCullough Construction has been building Washington, DC for over 25 years. From historic restoration to high‑rise multi‑family, our work is visible across the city. We’re looking for an experienced Estimator who can manage multiple bids simultaneously, communicate clearly with owners and subcontractors, and deliver comprehensive, competitive proposals.

Responsibilities:

Budgeting and Estimating

• Prepare conceptual budgets based on schematic drawings and early‑stage project information.
• Evaluate pricing and scopes of work; adjust as needed to ensure the estimate is complete and accurate.
• Price and propose value engineering alternatives to clients in order to work within their budget.
• Coordinate with the owner and design team regarding scope adjustments and their impact to the cost estimate.

Bid Management

• Manage the bid process and team; handle multiple bids simultaneously with accuracy and organization.
• Manage and organize bid documents; study drawings, specs, reports, and other bid documents thoroughly.
• Identify incomplete areas of bid documents and assist the owner and design team in developing project allowances.
• Prepare subcontractor scope sheets; solicit subcontractor and vendor pricing and ensure adequate trade coverage.
• Introduce McCullough to new subcontractors and vendors as needed to build the bidder pool.
• Schedule and attend pre‑bid meetings and job site walk‑throughs.
• Develop bid sheets and schedules of values.
• Prepare comprehensive RFP responses for clients; assist in presentations and client meetings as required.
• Develop baseline and summary‑level project schedules in support of proposals.

Preconstruction & Project Startup

• Participate in the preparation of the Prime Contract and its exhibits, including schedule of values, qualifications, clarifications, and project schedule.
• Assist the project team with purchasing of early and key subcontracts.
• Manage preconstruction activities and coordinate project startup as needed — permitting, kick‑off meetings, and similar.
• Assist the project team with change order pricing on large scope changes.

Qualifications:

• 5 or more years of experience in the construction industry, of estimating or preconstruction experience — multi‑family and commercial experience preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field — equivalent experience will be considered.
• Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with scheduling software (Primavera or MS Project) preferred.
• Organized and action‑oriented with strong time management skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• A track record of building positive relationships with subcontractors, vendors, clients, and design consultants.