Junior Estimator

Lusardi Construction Co.; San Marcos (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Lusardi Construction Co. is seeking a Junior Estimator to assist the Preconstruction team in preparing conceptual, budget, and hard-bid estimates. Under the Project Lead, you will handle quantity takeoffs, bid coverage, subcontractor bid tracking, and scope review on assigned bid packages.

You should be able to read drawings, understand trades, and anticipate how projects are built. This development role aims to grow toward full estimating proficiency with experience.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Basic understanding of construction trades and terminology.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel; familiarity with takeoff software (Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff, or similar) and Procore preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with preparing estimates at all design stages under the Project Lead.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and input quantities into estimating templates.
• Research unit pricing using historical data and quotes from vendors.
• Help assemble general conditions, clarifications, and exclusions for review.

Skills

Reading drawings

Excel proficiency

Takeoff software

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Communication

Eagerness to learn

Education

Bachelor’s in Construction Management

Tools

Bluebeam Revu

On-Screen Takeoff

Procore

SmartBidNet

Job description

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The Junior Estimator will support the Preconstruction team in preparing conceptual, budget, and hard-bid estimates. Working under the direction of the Project Lead, the Junior Estimator will be responsible for quantity takeoffs, bid coverage, subcontractor bid tracking, and scope review on assigned bid packages.

The Junior Estimator should be able to read construction drawings, have a basic understanding of the trades and the boundaries between them, and have a general understanding of how things are built. This position is a development role: the Junior Estimator will work toward proficiency in developing full estimates, leveling bids, and identifying scope gaps, with the goal of advancing to Estimator.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Assist with preparing estimates at all stages of design under the direction of the Project Lead.
  • Review plans, specifications, and addenda to understand project scope and identify missing or conflicting information.
  • Perform quantity takeoffs for assigned trades and input quantities into estimating templates.
  • Research unit pricing using historical data and vendor and supplier quotes.
  • Help assemble general conditions, clarifications, and exclusions for review by the Estimator.
• Support the bidding process in coordination with the Project Lead and Bid Coordinator.
  • Assist with project set-up and bid coverage in SmartBidNet; follow up with subcontractors and suppliers to confirm bidding intent.
  • Draft scope sheets/Greensheets for assigned trades for review by the Project Lead.
  • Track pre-bid RFIs and addenda and distribute updates to bidders.
  • Attend pre-bid meetings and job walks.
  • Enter subcontractor proposals into bid leveling sheets and flag scope gaps, overlaps, and exclusions.
  • Support bid-day activities, including tracking incoming bids and updating bid leveling sheets.
• Promote growth and improve direction within the Preconstruction Department.
  • Maintain bidder lists, subcontractor contact information, and pre-qualification records.
  • Help maintain estimating templates and record historical cost data from completed projects.
  • Take part in training, job walks, and site visits to build knowledge of construction means, methods, and costs.

Required Skills/Abilities

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Basic understanding of construction trades, sequencing, and terminology.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel; familiarity with takeoff software (Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff, or similar), Procore, and SmartBidNet preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organization.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet bid deadlines.
• Clear written and verbal communication with subcontractors, suppliers, and internal staff.
• Eagerness to learn and take on increasing responsibility.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, or a related field or a High school diploma coupled with 1-3 years construction experience and strong computer skills.

Experience

• Prior estimating, project engineering, or related construction experience is a plus.
• Construction internships are a plus.
• Field experience in a construction trade is a plus.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

• Primarily office-based, with periodic job walks and site visits.
• Prolonged periods at a computer reviewing drawings and performing takeoffs.
• Ability to work extended hours during bid periods as needed.

The pay range for this position of employment is expected to be between $30.00/hour and $38.00/hour. However, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:

Lusardi Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, religion, color, sex, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability or status as a Special Disabled Veteran, Vietnam Era Veteran or other qualifying veteran, political affiliation or belief. Lusardi Construction is committed to building and maintaining an inclusive environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.