Lead Project Estimator | Bid Strategy & Cost Insights

JRM Construction Management; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

JRM Construction Management in California is seeking a Project Estimator to join our employee-owned team. You will lead bid efforts, prepare detailed estimates across design stages, and work closely with architects, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure accurate pricing and competitive proposals.

You will translate drawings into costed estimates, manage the bid process from submission through award, and maintain client relationships while upholding our commitment to quality and value.

Qualifications

• Four-year degree and/or at least three years of relevant experience in Estimating, Purchasing, or Quantity Surveying
• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Ability to work under deadlines and meet them
• Proficiency in reading commercial construction plans and specs
• Ability to convey complex estimating data to varied audiences

Responsibilities

• Initiate and manage the entire bid process (CM and GC) inclusive of the preparation of detailed bid packages and ensure accurate and proper submissions/proposals by all subcontractors
• Prepare estimates with the proper level of detail for all design stages: Conceptual, Schematic Design, Design Development, and Construction Documents
• Prepare quantity take-offs and estimate costs of materials, labor, and use of equipment required to fulfill all provisions of the contract
• Solicit proposals based on drawings, bid packages, and subcontractor walk-throughs for each trade
• Prepare subcontractor bid forms, scopes of work, etc. for all trades involved in each project
• Review design documents for proper information to receive accurate pricing from subcontractors and suppliers, generate acceptable value engineering ideas and prepare life cycle costing
• Ensure that estimates comply with the requirements of the overall construction contract and are consistent with corporate guidelines
• Assist in the creation of logistics plans and accurately translate them to direct project costs
• Compile detailed award packages to pass on to the purchasing team after estimate approval
• Consult with architects, subcontractors, and material suppliers to discuss and formulate estimates, effect cost reductions, and resolve issues
• Actively research, solicit and develop sources/vendors for compiling and maintaining accuracy of cost information
• Maintain current trends in and changes to existing construction codes to ensure complete bids from subcontractors and material suppliers
• Attend client and/or team meetings to discuss estimates, answer any questions, and resolve any issues regarding pricing and estimates
• Ensure a complete review of plans and drawings, identify items that have been omitted, and ensure appropriate accounting for such items in the overall estimate package that represents the full scope of the project
• Maintain client relationships throughout the project life cycle, ensuring client satisfaction with the project
• Analyze completed projects to compare estimated costs to actual costs and determine the reason for any discrepancies
• Review and thoroughly understand all RFP documents, drawings, and specifications required to build a complete estimate
• Organize/conduct walk throughs coordinated with subcontractors to gather information on the existing conditions of a site

Skills

Multitasking

Time management

Under pressure

Reading drawings

Communicating estimates

Autonomous work

Costing accuracy

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Three years estimating experience

Tools

MS Office

Procore

Timberline

Job description

JRM Construction Management in California is seeking a Project Estimator to join our employee-owned team. You will lead bid efforts, prepare detailed estimates across design stages, and work closely with architects, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure accurate pricing and competitive proposals.

You will translate drawings into costed estimates, manage the bid process from submission through award, and maintain client relationships while upholding our commitment to quality and value.