Lead Painting Estimator & Project Manager

Keller Executive Search; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company-m�

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Keller Executive Search is partnering with a leading painting and commercial coatings contractor to hire an experienced Painting Estimator and Project Manager in Chicago, IL. This dual role blends cost estimating with hands-on project delivery, from bid through final walkthrough.

You will prepare accurate estimates for interior and exterior painting projects, then lead crews, schedules, and budgets to bring bids to life, working closely with clients, subcontractors, and field teams.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to read and interpret blueprints and bid documents.
• Experience preparing detailed takeoffs and cost estimates.
• Strong project management and multi-project coordination skills.
• Excellent communication with clients, subcontractors, and crews.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates, takeoffs, proposals, and change orders for painting projects.
• Review plans and site conditions to determine materials, labor, and equipment needs.
• Perform on-site takeoffs and pre-bid walkthroughs.
• Develop competitive bids and proposals for clients.
• Manage projects from award through closeout, including scheduling and budgeting.
• Coordinate and supervise field crews, subcontractors, and jobsite logistics.
• Serve as the primary client contact throughout the project lifecycle.
• Track project costs, changes, and margin performance.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Cost estimating

Project management

Client communication

Travel to sites

Tools

Estimating software

MS Office

Job description

Keller Executive Search is partnering with a leading painting and commercial coatings contractor to hire an experienced Painting Estimator and Project Manager in Chicago, IL. This dual role blends cost estimating with hands-on project delivery, from bid through final walkthrough.

You will prepare accurate estimates for interior and exterior painting projects, then lead crews, schedules, and budgets to bring bids to life, working closely with clients, subcontractors, and field teams.