Estimator- GU

The Gordon Highlander Corporation; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Gordon Highlander in Austin, TX is seeking an experienced Estimator – Ground-Up to support commercial construction opportunities across the South Region. You’ll develop accurate estimates from early budgeting through final pricing for ground-up projects.

The role requires reading drawings and specs, knowledge of site development, structural systems, MEP, and collaboration with Preconstruction, Operations, and Field teams to deliver executable estimates for diverse facilities.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of commercial construction estimating, preconstruction, project management, or related experience.
• Experience with distribution centers, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, cold storage, industrial facilities, large-scale retail.
• Strong ability to read and interpret architectural, civil, structural, and MEP documents.
• Bachelor's degree preferred but not required; equivalent experience considered.

Responsibilities

• Manage Ground-Up estimates from initial opportunity through final pricing and turnover to Operations.
• Review drawings, specs, site conditions, and requirements to develop estimates.
• Perform quantity takeoffs, bid leveling, scope reviews, and cost analysis.
• Solicit and evaluate trade pricing; maintain subcontractor and supplier relationships.
• Develop estimates across sitework, concrete, structural, envelope, roofing, and MEP scopes.
• Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, logistics, schedule impacts, and pricing risks.
• Visit prospective sites to evaluate conditions, access, utilities, and constraints.
• Develop value-engineering solutions and clearly communicate assumptions and exclusions.
• Collaborate with Preconstruction, Operations, and Field teams to reflect practical construction approaches.
• Participate in client meetings and pricing discussions as needed.
• Support subcontractor relationships and market intelligence in Austin.

Skills

Estimating

Communication

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full Time Austin, TX, US

Location: Austin, TX

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.