Estimator – Multiple Levels (I, II, III & Senior)

John Burns; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) with company contribution

Team outings and community charity

Job summary

John Burns is hiring estimating professionals in Chicago to join our team. We hire at multiple experience levels, from aspiring estimators to seasoned leaders, with responsibilities aligned to experience, technical knowledge, and the ability to manage estimates independently.

You will review drawings, perform takeoffs, prepare bids, coordinate with subcontractors and suppliers, and help shape bidding strategies.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of construction methods and the ability to interpret plans and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings, specifications, addenda, and bid documents to understand project scope.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and estimate labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits.
• Prepare subcontractor and supplier scopes, request quotes, and evaluate pricing.
• Support or lead the preparation of lump sum and unit price bids.
• Estimate self-performed work including earthwork, excavation, utilities, concrete, carpentry, and electrical infrastructure.
• Identify project risks and opportunities, develop budgets, and support bidding strategies.
• Prepare contracts and purchase orders and coordinate estimate handoffs to project teams.
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.

Job description

John Burns is hiring estimating professionals at multiple experience levels. Whether you're building your estimating career or bring extensive experience leading bids, we'd like to hear from you. Position level and responsibilities will be determined based on your experience, technical knowledge, and ability to manage estimates independently.

Founded in 1906, John Burns designs, builds, manages, and maintains infrastructure systems that connect people and improve their lives. Our work spans General Contracting, Electrical Infrastructure, and Telecommunications for public and private customers.

What You'll Do

As part of our Estimating Team, you'll help prepare accurate, competitive estimates and work closely with project teams, subcontractors, and suppliers. Responsibilities will vary by level and may include:

• Review drawings, specifications, addenda, and bid documents to understand project scope.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and estimate labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits.
• Prepare subcontractor and supplier scopes, request quotes, and evaluate pricing.
• Support or lead the preparation of lump sum and unit price bids.
• Estimate self-performed work, including earthwork, excavation, utilities, concrete, carpentry, and electrical infrastructure.
• Identify project risks and opportunities, develop budgets, and support bidding strategies.
• Prepare contracts and purchase orders and coordinate estimate handoffs to project teams.
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.

More experienced estimators may also lead complex bids, negotiate pricing, conduct labor reviews, and provide guidance to other estimating team members.

What You Bring

We welcome candidates with varying levels of construction and estimating experience. Successful candidates will bring:

• Knowledge of construction methods and the ability to interpret plans and specifications appropriate to their experience level.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills and a collaborative approach.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with estimating software.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and meet bid deadlines.

For advanced roles, we're seeking 7+ years of estimating or construction management experience, a bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field, and experience with HCSS HeavyBid, self-performed work, and both unit price and lump sum bidding.

What We Offer

• A team-based culture that values collaboration, problem solving, and process improvement.
• Professional development and career opportunities across company disciplines.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• A 401(k) with company contribution, profit sharing, and long-term disability benefits.
• Team outings and opportunities to support community charities.