Estimator II

McGough; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

McGough is seeking an Estimator II to prepare accurate, comprehensive cost estimates for commercial construction projects through all design phases and preconstruction. The role includes quantity takeoffs, evaluating risks, coordinating pricing with subs, and mentoring junior estimators to support successful pursuits.

Responsibilities cover bid development, cost history analysis, and collaboration with owners, architects, and trade partners to deliver competitive, defendable estimates and robust

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Five (5) to ten (10) years of commercial construction estimating experience.
• Experience preparing detailed quantity takeoffs and comprehensive construction estimates.
• Experience using electronic quantity takeoff software (e.g., On-Screen Takeoff or equivalent).

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs by interpreting drawings, specifications, and project documentation.
• Develop estimates across design, preconstruction, and construction phases.
• Coordinate subcontractor and supplier quotations and maintain bid packages.
• Mentor Estimator I team members and support continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with project teams and stakeholders to win work.

Skills

Detailed estimates

Quantity takeoffs

Analytical skills

Communication

Mentoring

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management/Engineering

Tools

On-Screen Takeoff

Job description

McGough is a respected partner that brings six generations of experience to high profile, unique and complex construction projects. We take great pride in our people and their extraordinary expertise in planning, development, construction and facility management. McGough employee tenure reflects the commitment and pride we share in our work. Ask anyone who knows us - the caliber of our people sets us apart.

ESTIMATOR II

The Estimator II is responsible for preparing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for commercial construction projects throughout all phases of design and preconstruction. This role independently performs quantity takeoffs, develops detailed estimates, coordinates subcontractor and supplier pricing, evaluates project risks, and collaborates with project teams to support successful pursuits and final contracts for active projects. The Estimator II also serves as a mentor to Estimator I team members while contributing to continuous improvement initiatives and fostering strong relationships with clients, design partners, and trade partners.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor\'s degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Five (5) to ten (10) years of commercial construction estimating experience.
• Experience preparing detailed quantity takeoffs and comprehensive construction estimates.
• Experience using electronic quantity takeoff software (e.g., On-Screen Takeoff or equivalent).

Prefered

• Experience estimating commercial, healthcare, technology, life sciences, corporate, higher education, manufacturing, or mission-critical projects.
• Experience with self-performed construction estimating (concrete and masonry is a plus).
• Familiarity with conceptual estimating and value analysis.
• Experience participating in integrated project delivery (IPD), Design-Build, CMAR, or negotiated work.
• Demonstrated ability to develop strong working relationships with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and vendors.
• Comfortable in presentation of estimates and/or interviews with project stakeholders
• Experience mentoring junior estimators.

Skills

• Strong knowledge of commercial construction methods, materials, building systems, and sequencing.
• Knowledge of construction contracts, procurement practices, and estimating principles.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate risks and develop cost-effective solutions.
• Ability to develop accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimates throughout multiple phases of design.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain productive relationships with clients, architects, engineers, subcontractors, suppliers, and internal project teams.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple deadlines.
• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.
• Ability to mentor and provide guidance to less experienced estimators.
• Commitment to continuous improvement, Lean principles, and the McGough Way.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Estimating & Preconstruction

• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs by interpreting drawings, specifications, and project documentation.
• Develop conceptual, schematic, design development, construction document, and detailed estimates.
• Prepare estimates for self-performed work, subcontracted work, equipment, general conditions, and general requirements.
• Select and modify estimating templates to meet project-specific requirements.
• Develop and maintain bid cards, scopes of work, and bid packages while identifying scope gaps and overlaps.
• Solicit, evaluate, and coordinate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Perform cost history analysis and apply historical data to estimate development.
• Develop pricing for labor, materials, equipment, temporary facilities, hoisting, weather protection, and other project requirements.
• Maintain current knowledge of construction materials, market pricing, vendors, and subcontractor capabilities.
• Understand and apply various contract delivery methods and contract types.
• Support value analysis and cost-saving opportunities throughout preconstruction.

Quantity Survey & Self-Performed Work

• Perform detailed quantity surveys for concrete, masonry, structural systems, foundations, rough/finish carpentry, and other building components.
• Prepare estimates for McGough self-performed work, including labor, materials, equipment, rentals, and small tools.
• Assist with CMiC budget preparation, production forecasting, and labor productivity evaluations.
• Develop scopes for self-performed materials including concrete, reinforcing steel, masonry, and related systems.

Project Collaboration

• Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, and field operations throughout preconstruction.
• Participate in design coordination meetings and constructability reviews.
• Generate Requests for Information (RFIs) during estimating activities.
• Conduct jobsite visits to evaluate constructability, production methods, scheduling constraints, and productivity assumptions.
• Provide estimating input supporting project schedules and sequencing.
• Assist with development and review of Critical Path Method (CPM) schedules.

Pursuit & Business Development

• Support pursuit teams during qualifications, proposals, and interviews.
• Assist with preparation of RFQs, RFPs, presentations, and preconstruction deliverables.
• Research prospective clients, markets, and project opportunities.
• Participate in preconstruction meetings and client presentations when requested.
• Foster productive working relationships with clients, architects, engineers, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Participate in company business development activities including industry events and networking opportunities.

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

• Provide coaching and technical guidance to Estimator I team members.
• Share estimating best practices and lessons learned across the estimating team.
• Participate in Lean initiatives and support implementation of the McGough Way.
• Attend departmental meetings, company meetings, and professional development opportunities.
• Support company standards, policies, safety expectations, and quality initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Other Responsibilities

• Attend and participate in project management and other company meetings
• Attend training for personal and/or professional development
• Walk job-site regularly to assess progress
• Represent McGough professionally at all events, upholding company standards and serving as a positive ambassador
• Attend company and project meetings, pursuing ongoing personal and professional development to enhance skills and performance
• Collaborate across departments and with external stakeholders to ensure cohesive project execution

OFFICE AND TRAVEL

Works at HQ in Roseville with regular regional travel. In addition to regional meetings and some overnight travel may be required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands outlined here are representative of those required for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

This position requires prolonged periods of sitting at a workstation or during meetings and travel (by plane or car). The employee must be able to lift up to 20 pounds as needed, demonstrate dexterity to write and use a computer keyboard and mouse, and possess the ability to hear, speak clearly, and distinguish colors on graphs and charts.

The role also requires occasional visits to construction sites, where the employee may be exposed to dust, dirt, uneven surfaces, outdoor weather conditions, and extreme temperatures.

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In alignment with our commitment to pay transparency, the base salary range for this position is $100,000 to $140,000, excluding fringe benefits or potential bonuses. If you join McGough, your final base salary will be determined by several factors, including geography, location, skills, education, and experience. Furthermore, we place significant value on pay equity among our current team members as part of any final job offer.

Please note that the range provided above reflects the hiring range for this role. Hiring near the top end of this range would be atypical, as we aim to allow room for future salary growth. Additionally, McGough offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes insurance coverage for medical, dental, vision, life, and disability. We also provide generous retirement plans, voluntary benefit plans, parental leave, substantial paid time off, and holiday pay.