Estimator II

PremiStar; Frankfort (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

PremiStar is seeking an Estimator II in Frankfort, Illinois, to prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates for construction projects. This role involves collaborating closely with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure financial viability and alignment with project scope.

The ideal candidate should possess 5+ years of construction estimating experience and have strong knowledge of methods and materials. This position offers opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of construction estimating experience.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and sequencing.
• Proven experience estimating medium to large-scale projects.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for commercial or industrial construction projects.
• Collaborate with project management during handoff and budgeting phases.
• Monitor market trends, labor rates, and material costs.

Skills

Construction methods knowledge

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Proficiency with estimating software

Advanced Excel skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field

Tools

BIM

CAD

Trimble Autobid

Procore

Sage

PlanSwift

Bluebeam

On-Screen Takeoff

Primavera

Job description

The Estimator II is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for construction projects. This role leads the estimating process from concept through bid submission, working closely with project managers, engineers, subcontractors, and clients to ensure projects are financially viable and aligned with scope, schedule, and quality requirements.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for commercial or industrial construction projects
• Review drawings, specifications, contracts, and scope documents
• Perform quantity take-offs and pricing analysis
• Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and supplier bids
• Identify risks, opportunities, and value-engineering options
• Develop and maintain estimating databases, cost histories, and benchmarks
• Lead bid reviews and support bid strategy decisions
• Collaborate with project management during handoff and budgeting phases
• Monitor market trends, labor rates, material costs, and subcontractor performance
• Mentor junior estimators and support continuous improvement of estimating processes
• Ensure estimates meet and comply with client specifications and applicable codes
• Help collect and organize subcontractor and supplier pricing
• Input labor, material, and equipment costs into estimating software
• Participate in pre-bid meetings and scope reviews
• Assist with proposal preparation and bid submissions
• Support post-bid handoff to project management teams
• Other duties as assigned

MINIMUM AND/OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or related field (or equivalent experience)

EXPERIENCE

• 5+ years of construction estimating experience
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and sequencing
• Experience with estimating and project management software (BIM, CAD, Trimble Autobid, etc.)
• Proven experience estimating medium to large-scale projects

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• Add required items

SKILL REQUIREMENTS

• Proven experience with large or complex projects
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and contracts
• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., Procore, Sage, PlanSwift, Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Primavera, Trimble or similar)
• Advanced Excel and cost analysis skills
• Detail-oriented with the ability to meet tight deadlines
• Experience in design-build or alternative delivery methods
• Strong attention to detail

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Office-based with exposure to jobsite visits and preconstruction meetings

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Fast-paced
• Deadline-driven environment during bid cycles
• May require extended hours during bid deadlines

REASONABLE ACCOMODATION

Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions unless doing so presents an undue hardship on the Company’s business operations.

OTHER DUTIES

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Employees understand the above job description and agree to comply with and be subject to its conditions. Employee further agrees this job description does not alter his/her at-will employment status. Employees understand the Company reserves the right to delegate, remove, expand or change all responsibilities. Employees acknowledge that he/she can fulfill the above duties with or without reasonable accommodation.