Estimator- ACT

Nevell Group; Brea (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% company-paid employee medical, d‑

401(k) with a 4% company match

ESOP

Bonus opportunities

Vehicle allowance

Job summary

Nevell Group, Inc. is seeking an Acoustical Ceiling Estimator to prepare accurate, competitive estimates for acoustical ceiling systems on commercial projects.

The role involves reviewing drawings, producing detailed quantity takeoffs, and developing material and labor costs using BuzzBid. The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, the ability to manage multiple bids, and a good understanding of ACT systems, with experience in coordinating with MEP and meeting bid deadlines.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of construction estimating experience preferred.
• Direct acoustical ceiling tile estimating experience strongly preferred.
• Experience with BuzzBid and/or OST (On-Screen Takeoff).
• Experience with specialty ceiling systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Interpret drawings and plans to prepare ACT takeoffs and estimates.
• Estimate ceilings, grids, clouds, baffles, trims, and related components.
• Maintain knowledge of ACT materials and installation requirements.
• Perform detailed takeoffs and prepare estimates using BuzzBid.
• Manage multiple estimates and meet bid deadlines.
• Develop labor production rates based on project specifics.
• Coordinate with MEP systems and evaluate seismic considerations.
• Prepare bid proposals with scope, alternates, qualifications, and exclusions.
• Identify drawing conflicts and submit bid clarifications.
• Solicit and evaluate supplier/ subcontractor quotations and lead times.
• Coordinate estimate reviews with project management and field operations.

Skills

Acoustical ceiling estimating

Estimating experience

Bid coordination

Detail-oriented

Communication skills

Tools

BuzzBid

On-Screen Takeoff

OST

Job description

Acoustical Ceiling Estimator

Location: [Insert Location]

About NGi

Nevell Group, Inc. (NGi) is a specialty contractor committed to delivering quality construction solutions through teamwork, innovation, and a focus on people. We value employees who take pride in their work, build strong relationships, and contribute to our continued success.

Why Join NGi?

At NGi, we invest in our employees and offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• 100% company-paid employee medical, dental, and vision premiums
• 401(k) with a 4% company match
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Bonus opportunities
• Vehicle allowance, where applicable

About the Role

The Acoustical Ceiling Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive estimates for acoustical ceiling systems on commercial, healthcare, and institutional projects. This role reviews drawings, reflected ceiling plans, specifications, and bid documents; performs detailed quantity takeoffs; develops material and labor costs; obtains vendor pricing; and prepares complete bid proposals.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of acoustical ceiling systems, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple bids while meeting deadlines. This position requires independent judgment to identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, and potential bid risks while supporting a successful transition from estimating to project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Interpret architectural drawings, reflected ceiling plans, details, and specifications to prepare accurate acoustical ceiling tile (ACT) takeoffs and estimates.
• Estimate suspended acoustical tile and grid systems, specialty metal and wood ceilings, clouds, baffles, trims, and related components.
• Maintain current knowledge of ACT materials, suspension systems, manufacturers, and installation requirements.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and prepare estimates using BuzzBid.
• Manage multiple estimates simultaneously while consistently meeting bid deadlines.
• Develop project-specific labor production rates based on ceiling heights, access, phasing, logistics, and project complexity.
• Evaluate seismic bracing, perimeter conditions, ceiling supports, and coordination with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems.
• Prepare complete bid proposals with clearly defined scope, alternates, qualifications, and exclusions.
• Identify drawing conflicts, missing information, and scope gaps; prepare and submit timely bid clarifications.
• Solicit and evaluate manufacturer, supplier, and subcontractor quotations, including material availability and lead times.
• Coordinate estimate reviews and bid handoffs with project management and field operations.
• Support change-order pricing and review project performance to improve future estimating accuracy.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

This list is not exhaustive. As company needs and priorities evolve, this job description may be adjusted accordingly.

Education & Experience

• Approximately 3+ years of construction estimating experience preferred.
• Direct acoustical ceiling tile (ACT) estimating experience strongly preferred.
• Experience with estimating software, preferably BuzzBid and/or On-Screen Takeoff (OST).
• Experience with specialty ceiling systems is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of suspended ACT grid and tile systems, with familiarity with specialty metal and wood ceiling systems.
• Ability to perform accurate quantity takeoffs, develop labor pricing, and manage the competitive bidding process.
• Understanding of ceiling installation methods, seismic requirements, and coordination with MEP systems.
• Ability to review contracts and bid documents to identify scope requirements, pricing considerations, qualifications, and exclusions.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to establish processes and develop solutions when established guidelines or precedents are unavailable.
• Strong time-management skills, self-discipline, and the ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong customer service and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a construction office environment, including occasional exposure to noisy conditions.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Nevell Group, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace where employees are treated with respect and have the opportunity to contribute and succeed.