Estimator - Commercial Construction

Placed; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Placed is seeking an experienced Estimator to prepare complete and accurate cost estimates for commercial construction projects during pre-construction and bidding. The role reports to the Vice President of Estimating and includes analyzing plans, developing takeoffs, and soliciting subcontractor pricing.

The candidate will review drawings and bid documents, coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, and internal teams, identify risks, and support bid submissions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field or equivalent
• 3+ years of commercial construction estimating or pre-construction services
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, pricing strategies, and market conditions
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, and contract documents
• Strong organizational, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency with estimating software and Microsoft Office

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed conceptual, schematic, design development, and hard bid estimates for commercial construction projects
• Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to develop complete quantity takeoffs and pricing
• Solicit, evaluate, and scope subcontractor and supplier proposals for completeness, accuracy, and competitiveness
• Coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, and internal operations teams throughout pre-construction
• Identify scope gaps, constructibility concerns, value engineering opportunities, and project risks
• Assist in preparing bid packages, clarifications, alternates, qualifications, and proposal documents
• Maintain and update historical cost data, unit pricing, and estimating databases
• Support project turnover from pre-construction to operations with clear handoff of estimate assumptions, scopes, and budgets
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and internal estimate reviews
• Represent Our Client professionally and support strong relationships with clients and trade partners

Skills

Estimating methods

Reading drawings

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Estimating software

Job description

Our Client is seeking an experienced Estimator to prepare complete and accurate cost estimates for commercial construction projects during pre-construction and bidding. This role reports to the Vice President of Estimating and is responsible for analyzing plans and specifications, developing quantity takeoffs, soliciting subcontractor and supplier pricing, and supporting pre-construction efforts through bid submission.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepare detailed conceptual, schematic, design development, and hard bid estimates for commercial construction projects
• Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to develop complete quantity takeoffs and pricing
• Solicit, evaluate, and scope subcontractor and supplier proposals for completeness, accuracy, and competitiveness
• Coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, and internal operations teams throughout pre-construction
• Identify scope gaps, constructibility concerns, value engineering opportunities, and project risks
• Assist in preparing bid packages, clarifications, alternates, qualifications, and proposal documents
• Maintain and update historical cost data, unit pricing, and estimating databases
• Support project turnover from pre-construction to operations with clear handoff of estimate assumptions, scopes, and budgets
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and internal estimate reviews
• Represent Our Client professionally and support strong relationships with clients and trade partners

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field, or equivalent combination of technical training and relevant experience
• 3+ years of commercial construction estimating, pre-construction services, or related experience
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, pricing strategies, and market conditions
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, and contract documents
• Strong organizational, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency with estimating software and Microsoft Office

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Sound judgment, strong attention to detail, and effective decision-making skills
• Understanding of corporate objectives and estimating strategies that impact profitability and project success
• Reliable transportation and willingness to attend meetings, site visits, and project-related functions as needed
• Stable employment history demonstrating reliability and commitment

BENEFITS & COMPENSATION:

Our Client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for career development. Compensation is based on experience and role level.