Project Estimator

Benchmark Construction; Ephrata (Lancaster County); On-site; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Benchmark Construction is seeking a Project Estimator in Lancaster, PA to develop comprehensive estimates from plans and specs, coordinating with subs, architects, and internal teams. You’ll review drawings, perform takeoffs, and build pricing that supports smart decision-making.

You'll be analytical and detail-oriented, with 1–3 years of estimating experience preferred, and proficient in industry tools like Procore, Bluebeam, and SmartBid.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CM/engineering or related field preferred, or equivalent industry experience; 1–3 years of commercial construction estimating experience.
• Understanding of commercial construction methods, budgeting, and estimating principles.
• Ability to read, interpret, and navigate construction drawings, specifications, and project documents with confidence.
• Experience with estimating software such as Bluebeam, SmartBid, Destini, Procore.
• Strong math, problem-solving, and analytical skills with ability to identify risks, evaluate costs, and make sound recommendations.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with a commitment to producing accurate, complete, and well-supported estimates.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, architects, engineers, and internal teams.
• Able to manage multiple estimates, deadlines, and responsibilities while maintaining accuracy.
• Committed to continuous learning, professional development, and improving understanding of construction, technology, and estimating process.
• Brings a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to safety, integrity, and delivering results.

Responsibilities

• Review plans, specifications, and drawings to understand scope and develop accurate estimates from the ground up.
• Perform takeoffs, identify labor and material requirements, and uncover scope gaps before they become costly surprises.
• Analyze costs, compare subcontractor proposals, and develop pricing that supports smart, profitable decisions.
• Work closely with subcontractors, suppliers, architects, engineers, and owners to gather information and clarify scope.
• Balance project vision, constructability, and budget to deliver the best value for clients.
• Identify risks, resolve cost discrepancies, and develop practical solutions before issues impact the project.
• Support value engineering efforts and find creative ways to meet project goals within budget.
• Partner with estimators, project managers, and operations teams to ensure complete scopes and successful handoffs.
• Prepare estimates, recommendations, and pricing information for leadership decisions.
• Maintain accurate estimate files, backup documentation, and project records for easy access and verification.
• Stay curious about construction methods, market conditions, and industry trends to improve knowledge and results.
• Represent Benchmark with professionalism, integrity, and respect.

Skills

Education & Experience

Construction Knowledge

Blueprint & Spec Skills

Technical Proficiency

Analytical Thinking

Attention to Detail

Communication & Collaboration

Multitasking & Prioritization

Growth Mindset

Character & Integrity

Education

Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field; or equivalent industry experience

Tools

Bluebeam

SmartBid

Destini

Procore

Job description

Project Estimator

Application Deadline: 30 September 2026

Department: Operations

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Lancaster, PA

Reporting To: Mike Funck

Compensation: $90,000 - $125,000 / year

Description

Who We Are: The core of our identity is a commitment to exceeding our clients’ expectations through employee well-being. We realize that our success starts and ends with our employees, so we have built a culture focused on empowerment and collaboration. We challenge each employee to achieve their full potential through career advancement initiatives, a focus on work-life balance, and a team approach to projects. Based in Lancaster, PA, and Ellicott City, MD, we are a Commercial General Contractor that is formed by our hardworking, driven, and relationship-oriented team.

Who You Are: You love figuring things out. You're analytical, detail-oriented, and naturally curious, and you're also a team player who enjoys working with people and building relationships. You have a knack for seeing the big picture without losing sight of the details. Whether you're reviewing plans, leveling bids, talking through scope with trade partners, or helping find value‑engineering solutions, you bring a thoughtful and practical approach to every project. You take pride in producing accurate work, staying organized, and helping the team win the right projects for the right reasons.

Your Impact

• Build the Plan. Review plans, specifications, and drawings to understand project scope and develop accurate, complete estimates from the ground up.
• Find the Details. Perform takeoffs, identify labor and material requirements, and uncover scope gaps before they become costly surprises.
• Know the Numbers. Analyze costs, compare subcontractor proposals, and develop pricing that supports smart, profitable decision‑making.
• Build Relationships. Work closely with subcontractors, suppliers, architects, engineers, and owners to gather information, clarify scope, and strengthen partnerships.
• Think Like an Owner. Balance project vision, constructability, and budget to help deliver the best value for clients.
• Solve Problems Early. Identify risks, resolve cost discrepancies, and develop practical solutions before issues impact the project.
• Drive Value. Support value engineering efforts and help find creative ways to meet project goals while staying within budget.
• Collaborate to Win. Partner with estimators, project managers, and operations teams to ensure complete scopes and successful project handoffs.
• Present with Confidence. Prepare estimates, recommendations, and pricing information that help leadership make informed decisions.
• Stay Organized. Maintain accurate estimate files, backup documentation, and project records so information is easy to access and verify.
• Keep Learning. Stay curious about construction methods, market conditions, and industry trends to continuously improve your knowledge and results.
• Represent Benchmark. Conduct every interaction with professionalism, integrity, and respect—because our relationships are just as important as the projects we build.

What You Bring (Experiences & Qualifications):

Above all, you are humble, hungry, and people-smart.

• Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field preferred, or equivalent industry experience, with at least 1-3 years of commercial construction estimating experience.
• Construction Knowledge: Understanding of commercial construction methods, materials, systems, budgeting, and estimating principles.
• Blueprint & Specification Skills: Ability to read, interpret, and navigate construction drawings, specifications, and project documents with confidence.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with estimating and construction technology platforms such as Bluebeam, SmartBid, Destini, Procore, or similar software.
• Analytical Thinking: Strong math, problem-solving, and analytical skills with the ability to identify risks, evaluate costs, and make sound recommendations.
• Attention to Detail: Highly organized and detail-oriented, with a commitment to producing accurate, complete, and well-supported estimates.
• Communication & Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and work effectively with subcontractors, suppliers, architects, engineers, and internal teams.
• Multitasking & Prioritization: Able to manage multiple estimates, deadlines, and responsibilities while maintaining a high level of accuracy.
• Growth Mindset: Committed to continuous learning, professional development, and improving your understanding of construction, technology, and the estimating process.
• Character & Integrity: Brings a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to safety, integrity, and delivering exceptional results for clients and teammates.

Why Choose Benchmark?

• A Culture Built to Care: At Benchmark, taking care of people isn’t a tagline; it’s a core value. Through our Built to Care initiative, we focus on your whole well-being: mental, physical, financial, emotional, and professional. When our people thrive, our projects and communities do too.
• A Strong Team Environment: You’ll join a team that genuinely enjoys working together. We have each other's backs. We celebrate often, and create space for everyone to belong, whether at picnics, appreciation events, or spontaneous “just because” moments.
• Wellbeing That Means Something: Enjoy wellness support that goes far beyond the basics: free and unlimited counseling sessions for you and your dependents, an on‑site fitness center, nutritional services, biometric screenings, and a strong focus on safety so everyone goes home healthy.
• Growth & Development at Every Stage: Through Benchmark University, Leadership Development, career pathing, personal development plans, tuition reimbursement, and access to professional groups, you’ll have clear ways to learn, grow, and lead — from day one and throughout your career.
• Innovative, Forward-Thinking Work: Construction is always evolving, and so are we. You’ll work with modern tools, technology, and systems that keep us ahead of the curve.
• Your Voice Matters Here: Between our Mentorship Program, employee resource groups, and cross‑company collaboration, you have real opportunities to shape the direction of Benchmark and make a meaningful impact.
• A Dynamic Industry: Every day brings something new — new challenges, new wins, new opportunities to build what matters. If you love variety, problem‑solving, and working with great people, you’ll love it here.