Lead Commercial Construction Estimator

CDO Group, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in commercial construction is seeking a Lead Commercial Construction Estimator to deliver accurate bids and drive growth. The role involves detailed cost estimation, collaboration with project teams, and mentoring junior estimators. Join a culture of excellence and integrity, with competitive pay and benefits.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision benefits

PTO and paid holidays

Career growth opportunities

Qualifications

• 7+ years of construction estimating experience, preferably in commercial projects.
• Deep knowledge of construction methods, materials, codes, and pricing strategies.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings and create detailed cost estimates.
• Negotiate with subcontractors for best pricing.
• Mentor junior team members.

Skills

Analytical

Communication

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management

Tools

Bluebeam

PlanSwift

Sage Estimating

Job description

Join to apply for the Lead Commercial Construction Estimator role at CDO Group, Inc.

Build Your Future With Us!

At CDO Group, we don't just estimate projects — we help shape them. We’re looking for a Lead Construction Estimator who’s sharp, experienced, and ready to lead the charge in delivering accurate, competitive bids that win work and drive our continued growth.

If you thrive on digging into the details, solving problems before they happen, and delivering best-in-class results, we want you on our team!

What You'll Be Doing:

• Review drawings, specs, and all bid documents to create detailed and accurate cost estimates.
• Perform complete quantity take-offs and develop scopes of work across all trades.
• Solicit, vet, and negotiate with subcontractors and suppliers to ensure the best pricing and coverage.
• Prepare conceptual budgets, detailed bids, and proposals — and lead presentations to clients.
• Collaborate with project management, architects, and engineers to find creative, cost-saving solutions.
• Track market conditions, labor rates, and material pricing to keep estimates razor-sharp.
• Visit job sites as needed to verify conditions and logistics.
• Mentor junior team members and help strengthen our estimating department’s capabilities.

What We're Looking For:

• 7+ years of construction estimating experience — commercial projects strongly preferred.
• Deep knowledge of construction methods, materials, codes, and pricing strategies.
• Tech-savvy with estimating software like Bluebeam, PlanSwift, Sage Estimating, or similar.
• Ability to interpret architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings with ease.
• Advanced knowledge of estimating techniques and cost control, plus the ability to interpret computerized cost data and systems.
• Ability to do takeoffs when needed for various trades.
• Strong analytical, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred — but real-world experience counts!

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay ($85,000-$95,000)
• Health, dental, and vision benefits
• PTO and paid holidays
• Career growth opportunities
• A culture built on collaboration, excellence, and respect

Work Schedule & Environment:

• General work hours are 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday (5-day work week).
• Note: Work hours and workdays may vary depending on project needs, critical deadlines, or bid schedules.
• Work is primarily performed on-site in our Oak Park, IL, office, with occasional site visits.

Company Description

For 28 years, CDO Group has been serving top retail and restaurant brands across the nation. With our trusted partners, we are revolutionizing the commercial construction industry and redefining development program management. Our unwavering commitment to improvement benefits our customers, communities, partners, and ourselves. We foster a dynamic and influential culture of service centered on integrity, transparency, trust, candor, and accountability.

At CDO Group, we live by our Core Values:

• Own It. No excuses, no shortcuts—just accountability and solutions.
• Be a Partner, Not a Vendor. We build relationships, not just projects.
• Communicate Clearly. No surprises. Just transparency, trust, and alignment.
• Stay Ahead. We innovate, adapt, and find better ways to build.
• Protect the Crew. Safety isn’t negotiable—it’s our responsibility.
• Reputation is Everything. Integrity, honesty, and results define us.