Estimator - Residential Construction

DC Builders; Damascus (OR); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Job summary

DC Builders is seeking an experienced Estimator to own the preconstruction process from concept through construction start. You will coordinate with design, permitting, budgeting, and procurement to scope and launch projects efficiently, especially for heavy timber builds.

The role emphasizes strategic thinking, clear client communication, and collaboration with in-house teams and external partners to deliver high-end projects nationwide.

Qualifications

• 7–15 years in Estimating, ideally in high-end residential or light commercial.
• Experience with permitting processes and jurisdictional approvals.
• Strong understanding of construction methods and cost drivers.
• Strategic thinker who balances design intent with budget and schedule.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for client and team meetings.
• Collaborative and able to align internal and external stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with a mindset for process improvement.

Responsibilities

• Own the full preconstruction lifecycle from sales handoff to construction start.
• Lead client communications during the preconstruction phase.
• Develop scope and bid packages; evaluate subcontractor bids.
• Coordinate with design teams to ensure feasibility and code compliance.
• Maintain permit tracking and submission timelines.
• Deliver buyout packages and facilitate smooth handoffs to field ops.
• Continuously improve preconstruction processes and tools.

Skills

Estimating

Permitting

Construction knowledge

Strategic thinking

Communication

Process improvement

Collaboration

Job description

Job Description

Estimator

DC Builders is looking for a strategic, detail-driven Estimator to lead the charge from concept to construction start. If you thrive on turning high-level ideas into executable plans and know how to guide a project through the maze of design, permitting, budgeting, and procurement, this is your opportunity to shape iconic heavy timber structures from the ground up.

About DC Builders and DC Structures

DC Builders and DC Structures are industry leaders in the design and construction of custom heavy timber structures nationwide. Headquartered in the Pacific Northwest, our companies specialize in crafting one-of-a-kind homes, barns, event venues, and commercial buildings that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.

At DC Builders, we offer full-service design and general contracting, managing projects from initial concept through final build. DC Structures, our sister company, provides pre-engineered building kits that empower clients and builders across the country to bring our signature style to life through a streamlined, flexible process.

Together, we’re united by a passion for quality, a commitment to exceptional client experiences, and a drive to push the boundaries of what’s possible in wood construction. Whether on-site or behind the scenes, every member of our team plays a vital role in shaping projects that stand the test of time.

What You’ll Do

As estimator, you’ll own the full lifecycle between the sales handoff and construction kickoff. You’ll lead internal coordination, client communication, and external collaboration to ensure every project is fully scoped, permitted, and ready to build, on time and within budget.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire preconstruction lifecycle—from sales handoff to construction start.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients during the preconstruction phase, clearly communicating scope, timelines, and expectations.
• Direct all aspects of preconstruction including:

• • Estimating and preliminary budgeting
  • Scope development and bid package creation
  • Solicitation and evaluation of subcontractor/vendor bids
  • Design coordination and constructability review
  • Value engineering and design-to-budget solutions
  • Permitting process management and jurisdictional communication
• Collaborate closely with in-house design teams, as well as external consultants, to ensure project feasibility, code compliance, and alignment with budget and schedule.
• Maintain up-to-date permit tracking, submission timelines, and jurisdictional correspondence.
• Lead internal project review meetings and ensure timely, transparent progress updates to internal and external stakeholders.
• Deliver comprehensive buyout packages and ensure a seamless handoff to construction management and field operations.
• Continuously evaluate and improve preconstruction processes, digital tools, and workflows to support company growth and efficiency.

Who You Are

• Experienced: 7–15 years in Estimating, ideally in high-end residential, custom homes, or light commercial projects. Design-build background preferred.
• Permitting Pro: Comfortable navigating complex permitting processes and jurisdictional requirements.
• Construction-Savvy: Deep understanding of construction methods, material selection, and cost impacts.
• Strategic Thinker: Skilled at balancing design intent with real-world constraints like budget, code, and schedule.
• Clear Communicator: Adept at leading meetings, writing scopes, and translating ideas into actionable plans.
• Process-Minded: Always looking to improve systems and eliminate inefficiencies.
• Collaborative: You know how to align internal teams, external partners, and clients around a shared vision.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Work on distinctive, design-forward projects that stand out across the country
• Join a passionate, high-performance team with a strong reputation in the industry
• Be part of a growing company that values innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Competitive compensation and company-sponsored benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement
• Opportunities for advancement, leadership, and shaping future processes