Project Estimator

DFS Construction Corporation; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

DFS Construction Corporation is seeking a detail-oriented Project Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates across all project phases, from conceptual design through construction documents. You will develop material, equipment, and labor take-offs, analyze costs, and support budgets while collaborating with project managers and cross-functional teams.

The role requires reading engineering drawings and contract documents, with proficiency in MS Office.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in engineering, construction, or related field.
• 3+ years of construction industry experience.
• Experience preparing accurate cost estimates through all project phases.

Responsibilities

• Estimate project costs and prepare take-offs for materials, labor, and equipment.
• Support preconstruction planning and budgeting through bid analysis.
• Coordinate bidding process and communicate with project team to ensure alignment with budgets and schedules.

Skills

Take-offs

Cost estimation

Read engineering drawings

Budget development

MS Office

Excel

Communication with PMs

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Construction

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Excel

Word/PowerPoint/Outlook

Job description

Detail-oriented Project Estimator with experience preparing accurate cost estimates throughout all phases of a project, including conceptual design, schematic design, design development, and construction documents. Skilled in preparing material, equipment, and labor take-offs, analyzing project costs, and supporting budget development. Experienced in performing cost comparison analyses between in-house estimates and contractor bids to ensure cost efficiency and project alignment. Collaborates closely with Project Managers and multidisciplinary teams to evaluate bids, budgets, and project requirements. Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and contract documents. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Construction, or a related field with 3+ years of construction industry experience.

Our lively work environment allows the opportunity to further your career in an industry that matters and emerge as leaders to unlock greater earning potential. DFS Construction is an award winning commercial general contracting company with projects in Washington DC, Northern Virginia and Maryland. We are currently looking for experienced Project Estimators to join our firm.

Ideal candidates will possess:

3-5 years (minimum) relevant experience in construction.

Ability to provide technical leadership and supervision to manage the bidding process.

Ability to communicate effectively to all parties involved with a project.

Ability to problem solve.

Ability to coordinate all project-related documentation.

Ability to schedule, coordinate and advise to manage deadlines.

Ability to facilitate internal project meetings with team members and appropriate parties.

The person in this position will be responsible for project estimating, preconstruction planning, and financial outcome until bid. In order to succeed in this position, the candidate must be organized and have excellent time management skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent
• 3-5 years' of relevant experience
• Strong organizational skills