Lead Estimator

Insero Talent Solutions; City of Rochester (NY); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A general construction firm in Rochester, NY is seeking a Lead Estimator to join their team. The successful candidate will prepare accurate cost estimates for commercial, industrial, or residential construction projects and manage a team. Key responsibilities include leading the estimating process, coordinating proposals, and ensuring competitiveness in bids. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and at least 5 years of estimating experience. Proficiency in estimating software and strong analytical skills are essential for this role.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in construction estimating, preferably with a general contractor.
• Highly proficient in estimating software.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation of detailed estimates for various projects.
• Perform accurate quantity takeoffs and cost modeling.
• Coordinate pre-bid meetings and conduct site visits.

Skills

Estimating software proficiency

Construction methods knowledge

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s in Construction Management or related field

Tools

Bluebeam

Planswift

ProEst

Safe Estimating

On-Screen Takeoff

Job description

Overview

Insero Talent Solutions has partnered with a reputable and expanding general construction company based in Rochester, NY to recruit a Lead Estimator.

Company Summary: Our client brings a wide range of skills, offering services in pre-construction, general construction, sitework, and acoustical systems. They also provide real estate services including fee development, facilities management, and leasing. They have built their reputation as an expansive multi-residential and commercial development network that caters to all their client needs.

Position Summary

The President is seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented and experienced Lead Estimator to be a key member and business partner to leadership. The Lead Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for commercial, industrial, or residential construction projects. This role is critical in helping the company bid competitively while ensuring project feasibility and profitability along with helping to develop and supervise a team of 3.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Preconstruction

• Lead the preparation of detailed estimates for commercial, industrial, or residential projects (ground-up, tenant improvement, renovations, design build, etc.)
• Perform accurate quantity takeoffs, cost modeling, and conceptual budgeting from schematic and incomplete design documents.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and other project documents to determine scope, risks, and constructability factors.
• Develop and maintain unit pricing, cost database, and historical cost records.
• Coordinate and conduct pre-bid meetings, site visits, and scope reviews with subcontractors.

Subcontractor & Vendor Management

• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals ensuring complete, competitive pricing.
• Build and maintain strong industry relationships to expand and improve bid coverage.
• Lead scope leveling and negotiating pricing as needed.
• Provide clear handoff or project estimates and scope to project management after award.
• Support value engineering efforts to enhance project feasibility and client satisfaction.

Proposal Preparation

• Prepare detailed bid summaries, clarifications, inclusions/exclusions, and final proposal packages.
• Participate in client presentations and interviews, clearly explaining estimating assumptions and cost drivers.
• Assist in developing strategies to improve win rates and competitiveness.

Requirements/Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum of 5 or more years of experience in construction estimating, preferably with a general contractor.
• Highly proficient in estimating software ( e.g., Bluebeam, Planswift, ProEst, Safe Estimating, On-Screen Takeoff).
• Strong working knowledge of construction methods, materials, and industry practices.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.
• Familiarity with local building codes, permitting, and regulatory standards.