Estimator II

Capstone Mechanical, LP.; Frankfort (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Capstone Mechanical, LP. is looking for an Estimator II to prepare competitive cost estimates for construction projects. This role requires collaboration with project managers, engineers, subcontractors, and clients to ensure project alignment with financial and quality standards.

The ideal candidate should have over 5 years of construction estimating experience, a Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or related field, and proficiency with estimating software. Strong analytical and negotiation skills are essential for this position.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of construction estimating experience, strong knowledge of construction methods.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Experience with estimating and project management software.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate cost estimates for construction projects.
• Lead the estimating process from concept through bid submission.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and clients.

Skills

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Proficiency with estimating software

Advanced Excel and cost analysis skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management 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:

• 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.)

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

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Office-based with exposure to jobsite visits and preconstruction meetings

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Fast-paced

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.