Estimator - Commercial Construction

Michael Page; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Base Salary up to $130,000

Robust annual bonus program

Comprehensive benefits

401(k) with match

Generous PTO & holidays

Career advancement

Professional development reimbursement

Networking events

Job summary

MPI is seeking an Estimator for commercial construction in Ohio to join a high-profile firm delivering ground-up and renovation projects. The role collaborates with Chief Estimator, PMs, and owners to prepare detailed cost plans and bid packages, with emphasis on accuracy and value engineering.

The successful candidate will have a Bachelor's in CM/Engineering/Architecture and 5+ years of estimating experience, proficiency with Bluebeam/PlanSwift, and strong analytical, communication, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating or preconstruction, ideally with ground-up project exposure.
• Ability to quickly review plans, interpret construction documents, and evaluate drawings and specifications.
• Familiarity with local jurisdictions, building codes, permitting requirements, and review processes is a plus.
• Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate directly with the Chief Estimator to prepare detailed estimates for both small-scale and large-scale construction projects.
• Develop and maintain bidder lists in coordination with Project Managers.
• Manage and update the bid log, ensuring accurate status tracking and reporting for leadership.
• Engage with project owners and participate in meetings with partners, estimators, and project managers.
• Provide bi-weekly project updates to the full project team.
• Conduct project walk-throughs with owners to gather information for bid preparation and proposal development.
• Communicate with subcontractors and suppliers and build relationships across concrete, steel, joists, precast, masonry, and other components.
• Assist in evaluating subcontractor proposals and conducting scope reviews.
• Support the creation of detailed bid packages and timely distribution.
• Identify value-engineering opportunities and cost-saving solutions during preconstruction.
• Coordinate the flow of drawings, specs, addenda, and other documentation during bids.
• Maintain market awareness by tracking subcontractor pricing trends and material availability.

Skills

Bid development

Plan reading & interpretation

Cost analysis

Communication

Team collaboration

Mentoring junior estimators

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management/Engineering/Architecture

Tools

Bluebeam

PlanSwift

On-Screen Takeoff

Job description

Estimator Role In Commercial Construction

Our client is one of Ohio's premier commercial construction and design-build firms, recognized for delivering some of the region's most impactful and complex projects. With a longstanding reputation for excellence, innovation, and client service, they have built a diverse portfolio spanning both public and private sectors, from high-end interior renovations to large-scale ground-up developments. What sets this organization apart is its ability to combine the resources, stability, and project pipeline of a large contractor with the collaborative, people-first culture of a close-knit team. Employees have the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that shape communities, including corporate headquarters, educational facilities, civic buildings, healthcare spaces, and other landmark developments that leave a lasting impact. Backed by a strong leadership team and a commitment to continuous improvement, the company empowers its employees with the tools, technology, and support needed to succeed. Team members are trusted with real responsibility, encouraged to grow professionally, and given exposure to challenging projects that accelerate career development.

Job Description

The Estimator will be responsible for:

• Collaborate directly with the Chief Estimator to prepare detailed estimates for both small-scale and large-scale construction projects.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive bidder lists in coordination with Project Managers.
• Manage and continuously update the bid log, ensuring accurate status tracking and clear reporting for leadership.
• Engage directly with project owners, including participating in meetings alongside partners, estimators, and project managers.
• Provide bi-weekly project updates to the full project team, supporting consistent communication and alignment.
• Conduct project walk-throughs with owners to gather information for bid preparation, scope validation, and proposal development.
• Communicate and build relationships with subcontractors and suppliers, including those providing concrete, steel, joists, precast, masonry, and other key components.
• Assist in evaluating subcontractor proposals and conducting scope reviews to ensure accuracy and alignment with project requirements.
• Support the creation of detailed bid packages, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and timely distribution.
• Help identify value-engineering opportunities and contribute to cost-saving solutions during preconstruction.
• Coordinate the flow of drawings, specifications, addenda, and other documentation throughout the bidding process.
• Maintain strong market awareness by tracking subcontractor performance, pricing trends, and material availability.

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.

The Successful Applicant

The Estimator will have:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating or preconstruction, ideally with ground-up project exposure.
• Proven ability to quickly and accurately review plans, interpret construction documents, and evaluate drawings and specifications.
• Familiarity with local jurisdictions, building codes, permitting requirements, and review processes is a strong plus.
• Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong oral, written, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills; able to collaborate effectively with owners, project teams, and subcontractors.
• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, PlanSwift, or similar tools).
• Solid understanding of construction means and methods, materials, scheduling concepts, and subcontractor scopes.
• Ability to perform quantity takeoffs independently across multiple divisions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on cost accuracy and risk identification.
• Highly self-motivated and able to work both independently and within a collaborative team environment.
• Comfortable participating in walk-throughs, pre-bid meetings, and owner discussions as needed.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities and frequent deadlines.
• Experience compiling and presenting detailed estimate summaries and cost reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of project scheduling and the relationship between schedule impacts and construction costs.
• Ability to work collaboratively with Operations teams to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction to project execution.
• Experience reviewing subcontract agreements and understanding contractual cost implications.
• Knowledge of procurement strategies, long-lead items, and supply chain considerations.
• Ability to analyze project documents to identify scope gaps, ambiguities, and constructability concerns.
• Familiarity with lean construction principles and preconstruction best practices.
• Strong mathematical aptitude and ability to perform advanced cost analyses and forecasting.
• Experience managing and maintaining historical cost databases and benchmark information.
• Ability to mentor junior estimators and contribute to the growth of the preconstruction department.
• Strong customer-service mindset with the ability to develop and maintain client relationships.
• Experience working with negotiated work, hard bid projects, and design-build delivery methods.
• Knowledge of sustainable construction practices, LEED requirements, and associated cost impacts is a plus.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding pricing strategies, bid information, and proprietary company data.
• Proven ability to meet aggressive deadlines while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and professionalism.
• Experience participating in site visits, existing conditions assessments, and preconstruction planning meetings.
• Strong understanding of contract documents, bid forms, alternates, allowances, unit pricing, and general conditions.
• Results-oriented mindset with a commitment to continuous improvement and process optimization.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred.
• Experience in healthcare, higher education, industrial, multifamily, mixed-use, hospitality, or mission-critical construction projects preferred.

What's On Offer

The Estimator will be offered:

• Base Salary up to $130,000.
• Robust annual bonus program tied to individual and company performance.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) with company match to support long-term financial growth.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays to promote work-life balance.
• Clear career advancement path within a growing preconstruction and estimating team.
• Opportunity to work with an industry-leading GC known for stability, strong project pipelines, and reputable clients.
• Exposure to a variety of ground-up commercial projects, enhancing technical and professional development.
• Continuous training and development resources to support ongoing skill-building and certification goals.
• Strong internal support from Project Managers, Chief Estimator, and leadership, ensuring success in the role.
• A collaborative, team-oriented culture where your input is valued and contributions are recognized.
• Access to modern tools, technology, and estimating software to streamline workflows.
• The ability to make meaningful impact on preconstruction strategy and project success.
• Long-term career stability with a well-established and growing construction organization.
• Direct exposure to executive leadership and key decision-makers within the company.
• Opportunity to collaborate with some of the region's top owners, architects, engineers, and subcontractors.
• Strong pipeline of upcoming work, providing job security and continued professional growth.
• Leadership team committed to employee development, mentorship, and internal promotion.
• Professional development reimbursement for industry certifications, continuing education, and training programs.
• Company-sponsored networking events, team-building activities, and industry association involvement.
• The opportunity to participate in strategic preconstruction planning and client relationship development.
• Supportive onboarding and training process designed to set new hires up for success.
• Access to cutting-edge preconstruction technologies, estimating platforms, and digital collaboration tools.
• A highly respected company brand with an outstanding reputation in the construction industry.
• Opportunity to