Estimator- GU

Gordon Highlander; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Gordon Highlander is seeking an experienced Estimator – Ground-Up to join our Austin team, supporting commercial construction opportunities across the South Region. The role emphasizes ground-up commercial and industrial projects, including distribution centers, warehouses, and large-scale retail.

You will develop accurate estimates from early budgeting to final pricing, collaborating with Preconstruction and Operations to position projects for success from the outset. Travel locally is expected.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of commercial construction estimating, preconstruction, project management, or related experience.
• Experience with ground-up commercial/industrial construction projects such as distribution centers, warehouses, cold storage, or large-scale retail.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, civil, structural, and MEP drawings; understand site development and constructability.

Responsibilities

• Manage ground-up estimates from opportunity through final pricing and turnover to Operations.
• Review drawings, specs, site conditions, and requirements to develop complete estimates.
• Perform quantity takeoffs, bid leveling, and cost analysis to support competitive pricing.
• Solicit and evaluate trade-partner pricing while maintaining subcontractor relationships.
• Develop estimates across major scopes: sitework, concrete, structure, building envelope, roofing, MEP.

Skills

Communication skills

Organization

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or related field

Job description

Gordon Highlander is seeking an experienced Estimator – Ground-Up to join our growing Austin team and support commercial construction opportunities across the South Region.

This role will have a strong focus on ground-up commercial and industrial construction, including distribution centers, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, cold storage, large-scale retail, and build-to-suit projects.

You’ll work closely with clients, trade partners, Preconstruction, and Operations to develop accurate, competitive estimates from early conceptual budgeting through final pricing, helping position projects for success from the earliest stages of an opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage Ground-Up estimates from initial opportunity and conceptual budgeting through final pricing and turnover to Operations
• Review drawings, specifications, site conditions, and project requirements to develop complete and accurate estimates
• Perform quantity takeoffs, bid leveling, scope reviews, and detailed cost analysis
• Solicit and evaluate trade-partner pricing while maintaining strong subcontractor and supplier relationships
• Develop estimates across major scopes including sitework, concrete, structural systems, building envelope, roofing, and MEP systems
• Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, logistics challenges, schedule impacts, and pricing risks
• Visit prospective project sites to evaluate existing conditions, access, utilities, logistics, and site constraints
• Develop value-engineering solutions and clearly communicate assumptions, qualifications, exclusions, and key cost drivers
• Collaborate with Preconstruction, Operations, and Field teams to ensure estimates reflect a practical and executable construction approach
• Participate in client meetings, pricing discussions, and proposal presentations as needed
• Support the development of subcontractor relationships and market intelligence within Austin and the surrounding region

Qualifications & Experience

• 4+ years of commercial construction estimating, preconstruction, project management, or related experience
• Experience with projects such as distribution centers, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, cold storage, industrial facilities, large-scale retail, or similar commercial construction
• Strong understanding of site development, structural systems, building envelope, MEP systems, construction sequencing, and constructability
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, civil, structural, and MEP construction documents
• Experience developing conceptual budgets, detailed estimates, bid leveling, and scope analysis
• Strong trade-partner relationships and the ability to develop new subcontractor relationships within the Austin market
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple pursuits and deadlines while maintaining accuracy and responsiveness
• Willingness to travel locally and regionally for site evaluations and project meetings
• A bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field is preferred but not required. Equivalent commercial construction experience will be considered.

Why Join Gordon Highlander?

At Gordon Highlander, we believe exceptional client service begins with exceptional teamwork. We are committed to fostering a culture built on collaboration, accountability, professionalism, and service. Every Highlander plays an important role in our success, and we value individuals who bring energy, integrity, and a genuine desire to help others.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while growing your career in a supportive environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Gordon Highlander does not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies, recruiters, or third-party representatives. Any resumes submitted without a current, executed agreement and written authorization from Gordon Highlander to recruit for this specific position will be considered the property of Gordon Highlander, and no placement fees or compensation will be paid.

Gordon Highlander is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.