Estimator - Real Estate Firm

Cogent CRE Recruitment; New York (NY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Cogent CRE Recruitment is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our construction team focused on repositioning and renovation of multifamily residential properties nationwide, with a significant NYC concentration. You will prepare detailed cost estimates from concept through final budget, collaborating with development, construction, and design teams.

The role requires 5–10 years of estimating experience, strong knowledge of NYC construction costs, proficiency with estimating software and

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of estimating experience in multifamily renovation or rehab projects.
• Strong knowledge of NYC construction costs and market conditions.
• Proficiency with estimating software and cost databases.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, MEP, and structural drawings.
• Excellent communication with ownership, development, and construction leadership.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage detailed cost estimates for multifamily renovation and repositioning projects, from conceptual through construction-ready budgets.
• Analyze drawings, specs, and scopes to identify cost drivers and risks.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor pricing.
• Track and benchmark historical cost data to improve accuracy.
• Collaborate on value engineering and budget reconciliation.
• Support due diligence on acquisitions and rehab opportunities (national scope, some travel).

Skills

Cost estimation

Budgeting

Reading architectural drawings

Communication

Tools

Estimating software

Cost databases

Cost benchmarking

Job description

This firm are a well-established, mission-driven real estate organization with a national platform focused on developing, renovating, and managing affordable and multifamily residential communities. With a growing pipeline of repositioning and substantial rehabilitation projects across the country — including a significant concentration in New York City — they are seeking an experienced Estimator to join their construction team.

About the Role

You’ll be responsible for preparing detailed cost estimates for the repositioning and renovation of multifamily residential properties, working closely with development, construction, and design teams from early feasibility through final budget. This is a highly cross-functional role suited to someone who thrives on getting into the weeds of scope, pricing, and constructability across a varied portfolio of occupied and vacant renovation projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage detailed cost estimates for multifamily renovation and repositioning projects, from conceptual through construction-ready budgets
• Analyze construction drawings, specifications, and scopes of work to identify cost drivers and risks
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor pricing
• Track and benchmark historical cost data to improve estimate accuracy over time
• Collaborate with development, construction management, and design teams on value engineering and budget reconciliation
• Support due diligence on new acquisitions and rehabilitation opportunities, including national assignments outside NYC (some travel involved)

What They’re Looking For

• 5–10 years of estimating experience, ideally with a focus on multifamily residential renovation, repositioning, or substantial rehabilitation work
• Strong knowledge of NYC construction costs and market conditions, with comfort estimating projects in other regions as well
• Proficiency with estimating software and cost databases
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, MEP, and structural drawings
• Excellent communication skills and comfort working directly with ownership, development, and construction leadership
• This is an opportunity to join a growing, well-capitalized organization with a strong national reputation in affordable and sustainable housing. Full company details will be shared with candidates who advance in the process