Estimator - High-End Residential Construction

Hickory Construction, Inc.; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Relocation assistance

In-office collaboration

Job summary

A leading construction firm in Knoxville is looking for an Estimator to manage the estimating processes for high-end residential projects. The role requires a minimum of 5 years of estimating experience and expertise in interpreting architectural drawings. Responsibilities include preparing accurate cost estimates, consulting with project stakeholders, and maintaining cost data to optimize future estimates. Competitive compensation and a supportive work culture are offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of combined residential and commercial estimating experience required.
• Strong ability to interpret and work from architectural drawings.
• Experience supporting architect-driven, detail-intensive builds.
• Strong ability to interpret and work from architectural, structural, and MEP drawings.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings and documents to prepare accurate cost estimates.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop detailed cost breakdowns.
• Consult with architects and engineers to clarify scope and resolve discrepancies.
• Procure, solicit, and level subcontractor and supplier proposals; negotiate pricing as appropriate.
• Prepare written scopes of work, alternates, allowances, clarifications, and value options.
• Create estimates used for planning, scheduling, procurement, and subcontractor buyout.
• Maintain and update historical cost data to improve accuracy of future estimates.
• Monitor market conditions, labor cost trends, and material pricing impacts.
• Maintain an organized directory of suppliers, subcontractors, and trade partners.
• Contribute to improving estimating tools, workflows, and cost reporting systems.
• Support a seamless handoff to Project Managers and assist with preconstruction transition activities

Skills

Residential estimating experience

Commercial estimating experience

Contract negotiation

Communication skills

Cost estimating

Tools

On-Screen Takeoff

Sage Estimating

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Hickory Construction, Inc

Estimator -

High-End Residential Construction

Location: Knoxville, TN (In-Office)

Join a legacy of craftsmanship.

Founded in 1977, Hickory Construction has delivered award-winning, luxury custom homes and bespoke commercial spaces across East Tennessee. Guided by founder Burke Pinnell (Chairman) and President Ben Pinnell, we hold a simple, unwavering standard: the highest level of quality and service, from the smallest renovation to the largest estate build. Our team includes long-tenured master craftspeople and field leaders who sweat the details others miss. If you care about precision, accountability, and client experience, you'll feel at home here.

The Estimator produces complete, accurate estimates for complex, architect-driven work and partners closely with the Director of Estimating, Project Managers, architects, engineers, and trade partners. You'll interpret evolving design sets, write clear scopes, and provide numbers our team can build from, supporting our commitments to personal service, accurate estimating, schedule integrity, financial security, and a safe workplace.

Key Responsibilities

• Review drawings, specifications, addenda, and supporting documents to prepare accurate, complete cost estimates
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop detailed cost breakdowns and matrices
• Consult with architects, engineers, clients, and field leaders to clarify scope and resolve discrepancies early
• Procure, solicit, and level subcontractor and supplier proposals; negotiate pricing as appropriate
• Prepare written scopes of work, alternates, allowances, clarifications, and value options
• Create estimates used for planning, scheduling, procurement, and subcontractor buyout
• Maintain and update historical cost data to improve accuracy of future estimates
• Monitor market conditions, labor cost trends, and material pricing impacts
• Maintain an organized directory of suppliers, subcontractors, and trade partners
• Contribute to improving estimating tools, workflows, and cost reporting systems
• Support a seamless handoff to Project Managers and assist with preconstruction transition activities

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of combined residential and commercial estimating experience required
• High-end custom residential estimating experience strongly preferred
• Experience supporting complex renovations and architect-driven, detail-intensive builds
• Strong ability to interpret and work from architectural, structural, and MEP drawings
• Knowledge of construction methods, materials, sequencing, local codes, and labor agreements
• Experience with construction contracts and negotiation
• Proficient in On-Screen Takeoff (or similar), Sage Estimating (or comparable), Procore (or other project management platform), and Microsoft Excel
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to engage professionally with clients and partners
• Organized, proactive, and able to work in a collaborative environment with urgency and accountability

Traits That Fit Hickory

• Detail-oriented and steady under change
• Values craftsmanship, precision, and follow-through
• Team-minded and respectful with field and office personnel
• Produces numbers that stand up in the real world, not just on paper

Compensation

• Job Type: Full-time (W-2)
• We offer a competitive compensation package aligned with industry standards.
• Relocation assistance is considered for strong fits
• Primarily in-office collaboration (Knoxville area)

Why Join Hickory

• Nearly 50 years of excellence in high-end residential and custom commercial construction
• Projects that challenge your skill and reward precision
• A respectful, stable culture where craftsmanship and integrity come first
• Long-tenured team members who value mentorship and continuous learning

Hickory Construction, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, genetic information, military status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. We provide reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees as required by law.