Lead Estimator

Consolidated Contracting; San Clemente (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Vacation

Paid Sick Leave

Health Care Insurance

401K Plan

Paid Holidays

Gym Membership Discount

Bonus Potential

Continuing Education Support

Job summary

Consolidated Contracting is seeking a driven Lead Estimator in San Clemente, California to drive bid strategies and deliver accurate estimates for high-value construction projects. The successful candidate will oversee all phases of bid preparation, including managing subcontractors and vendors. Required qualifications include a Bachelor's in Construction Management or a related field and 5–7 years of estimating experience. Excellent communication and organizational skills are essential. The role offers a competitive salary, paid vacation, and health benefits.

Qualifications

• 5–7+ years of estimating or preconstruction experience with a General Contractor.
• Preferred experience in managing multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate estimates while managing deadlines.
• Review plans and identify project requirements.
• Coordinate with subcontractors for complete bid coverage.
• Negotiate pricing and coverage with subcontractors.

Skills

Strong understanding of construction documents

Excellent communication skills

Negotiation skills

Leadership skills

Advanced Microsoft Excel skills

Organizational skills

Ability to perform under pressure

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Project

Primavera

Job description

We’re looking for a driven, detail-oriented Lead Estimator to lead bid strategy, deliver accurate estimates, and help win high-value construction projects. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, takes initiative, and can confidently lead teams, subcontractors, and project stakeholders through the preconstruction process.

About the Role

Lead assigned bids from start to finish, ensuring strong strategy, thorough coverage, and no last‑minute emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate, competitive estimates across multiple projects while managing deadlines and priorities
• Review plans, specs, and contract documents to identify scope, risks, opportunities, and project requirements
• Coordinate estimators, subcontractors, and vendors to ensure complete bid coverage (minimum 3 bids per major trade)
• Attend job walks, pre‑bid meetings, and collaborate with project managers and superintendents
• Negotiate scope, pricing, and coverage with subcontractors and vendors
• Maintain historical cost data and continuously improve subcontractor database quality
• Support a culture of accountability, urgency, and excellence within the estimating team

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred
• 5–7+ years of estimating or preconstruction experience with a General Contractor (or equivalent experience)

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of construction documents, contracts, scheduling, and cost management
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; experience with Microsoft Project or Primavera is a plus
• Highly organized, self‑motivated, and able to perform under pressure

Preferred Skills

• You lead with integrity, take ownership, and know how to build strong relationships
• You’re proactive, solutions‑focused, and committed to delivering quality work while helping your team succeed

Our Core Values

Integrity. Safety. Dedication. Loyalty. Community. Family. Growth. Humility.

If you’re ready to lead winning bids and make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Pay range and compensation package

The salary range is $140,000.00 to $165,000 annually (commensurate with experience) and bonus potential. In addition to salary, see the following:

• Paid Vacation – You can accrue up to 3 weeks (120 hours) of paid vacation time in a year (and accrue an additional 40 hours, if unused).
• Paid Sick Leave – When you start, the Company “deposits” 5 days (40 hours) of paid sick time into your sick bank. It resets to 40 hours on January 1 of the following year.
• Health Care Insurance – We offer health insurance, which covers medical, dental and vision.
• 401K Plan – We offer a 401(k) plan with a company match equal to 3% of your eligible compensation for the year.
• Paid Holidays – There are 8 paid holidays – New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day +1, and Christmas Day +1.
• 24 Hour Fitness – You are eligible for a membership discount & other benefits.
• Bonuses – As the company achieves its yearly financial goals, there is yearly bonus potential.
• Continuing Education – We are happy to cover the cost of most continuing education courses.