Estimator (Howard S. Wright)

Balfour Beatty US; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Howard S. Wright, a Balfour Beatty company, in Portland, Oregon, seeks an Estimator to join our preconstruction team.

You will prepare estimates across schematic through construction documents, solicit subcontractor bids, and review plans with engineering and design professionals. The role emphasizes accurate takeoffs, cost development, and collaboration with clients, constructors, and suppliers to meet project needs.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Construction Management, Engineering, or equivalent.
• 2–4 years of preconstruction/estimating experience on commercial projects.
• Knowledge of civil/site construction and building systems.
• Strong computer skills and proficiency with estimating software.
• Good organizational and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform quantity takeoffs for schematic to construction documents.
• Prepare clarifications and assumptions with project management.
• Solicit and analyze subcontractor and vendor pricing.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site tours.
• Develop unit costs and perform plan reviews.
• Maintain relationships with customers and design teams.
• Improve knowledge of construction technologies.

Skills

Strong communication

MS Office proficiency

Attention to detail

Education

B.S. in Construction Management or Engineering

Tools

MC2

On-Screen Takeoff

Paydirt

Constructware

iSqFt

Job description

Summary

Howard S. Wright, a Balfour Beatty company, is seeking a qualified Estimator to join our team in Portland, Oregon. If you have a passion for what you do, a strong drive to achieve results, the ability to solve problems creatively, and a dedication to client service and relationship management, come join us.

As a member of the preconstruction/estimating team, this role is responsible for preparing sections of schematic, design development and construction document estimates including soliciting and evaluating subcontractor bids, and scopes of work, preparing quantity surveys, reviewing project plans and specifications for all CSI (Construction Specific Institute) categories of work.

Essential Functions

• Performs accurate, thorough and timely quantity takeoffs using company format, detail and coding for some CSI division systems for all levels of project documents (schematic, design development, construction documents).
• Develops accurate and concise clarifications and assumptions with project management team's assistance.
• Obtains clarification on plans and specifications from architects and engineers when necessary.
• Solicits and analyzes subcontractor and vendor pricing input when required.
• Attends project site pre-bid meetings, site tours, and post-bid interviews as required.
• Develops unit costs accurately.
• Performs technical/plan review when required.
• Considers and understands problems, and identifies appropriate solutions.
• Develops knowledge in building designs, systems and construction materials through available resources.
• Accurately assesses and plans takeoff workload.
• Becomes proficient in all computer software programs used in preconstruction with particular emphasis on estimating software (e.g. MC2, On-Screen Takeoff, Paydirt, Constructware, and іSqFt).
• Constantly strives to improve individual capabilities, performance and expand knowledge of construction technologies and techniques.
• Builds effective relationships with customers, design team, subcontractors, suppliers, and user groups that reflect and support company core values and meets or exceeds the customer’s expectations.
• Actively participates in industry, client, and community relations to enhance company image.
• Performs other related duties as needed.

Working Conditions

The majority of the work is completed in an office setting at the Division's main office. Periodic meetings at off-site locations may occur.

Education & Experience

• B.S. in Construction Management, Engineering, or equivalent work experience with 2 to 4 years of preconstruction/estimating and/or operations experience on commercial construction projects or 4 to 7 years of progressive equivalent work experience in a related field.
• Knowledgeable in some of the following: civil/site construction, foundation and structural systems, miscellaneous metals, casework, doors, specialties, interior finishes, exterior building wall systems, mechanical and electrical systems and the costs of these systems.
• Strong computer skills including the ability to use word processing, spread sheets, and email.
• Possess good organizational skills and strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to develop new skills and knowledge quickly.
• Resourceful and diligent in seeking solutions to problems and adapting to new situations.
• Act in a manner of integrity that shows support for the company, its values, and the employees, while maintaining constant focus on meeting/exceeding customer requirements and expectations.
• Strong computer skills including the ability to use estimating software (like MC2), word processing, spread sheets, bid management, online plan rooms and database applications and company communication tools, such as email, internet, and Microsoft products (e.g., Word, Excel, Office, Outlook).