Lead Estimator Commercial Construction

The Charlotte Observer Publishing Company; Charlotte, Northern (NC, KY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Charlotte Observer Publishing Company in Dallas, NC is seeking an experienced Lead Estimator to manage the estimating and bidding process for commercial construction projects.

You will prepare competitive bids, perform detailed material takeoffs, review plans and specs, develop accurate budgets, and coordinate estimates with subcontractors and vendors to position projects for successful execution from bid through completion.

Qualifications

• Proven experience preparing competitive bids.
• Detailed material takeoffs experience.
• Ability to review plans and specifications.
• Developing accurate project budgets.
• Coordinating estimates with subs and vendors.

Responsibilities

• Manage estimating and bidding process for commercial construction projects.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor proposals; confirm scope and pricing.
• Coordinate project estimates and monitor budgets throughout bidding.
• Maintain relationships with subcontractors and vendors to position projects for success.

Skills

Bidding experience

Takeoffs

Budget development

Plan review

Estimating & PM

Subcontractor coordination

Job description

Lead Estimator – Commercial Construction

Dallas, NC | Salary: $65,000–$90,000

A commercial general contractor in Dallas, NC is seeking an experienced Lead Estimator to manage the estimating and bidding process for commercial construction projects. The ideal candidate will have proven experience preparing competitive bids, performing detailed material takeoffs, reviewing plans and specifications, and developing accurate project budgets.

Key responsibilities include coordinating project estimates, identifying scope gaps, controlling budgets, assisting with project scheduling, and maintaining strong relationships with subcontractors and vendors. The Lead Estimator will solicit and evaluate subcontractor proposals, confirm project scope and pricing, and help ensure projects are positioned for successful execution from bid through completion.

Candidates should possess strong commercial construction knowledge, excellent organizational and communication skills, and experience with both estimating and project management. The successful candidate must be detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and capable of managing multiple bids and priorities simultaneously.

Salary Range: $65,000–$90,000, based on experience.