Project Estimator

TRC Talent Solutions; Murrells Inlet (SC); On-site; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based incentives

Advancement opportunities

Exposure to diverse projects

Job summary

A construction firm in South Carolina is seeking a highly motivated Project Estimator to join their team. The role requires strong technical knowledge and the ability to develop accurate cost estimates throughout the bid process. Responsibilities include analyzing documents, conducting thorough take-offs, and collaborating across departments to ensure successful project execution. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of estimating experience in construction, with strong analytical skills and proficiency in relevant software. Competitive salary and growth opportunities offered.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of estimating experience in construction-related industries.
• Strong understanding of cost drivers and construction methodologies.
• Ability to build estimates from conceptual budgeting to submission.

Responsibilities

• Lead the estimating process from document review through bid submission.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs using digital and manual methods.
• Analyze production rates and project phasing requirements.
• Evaluate site conditions impacting costs.

Skills

Estimating experience in construction

Understanding of construction methodologies

Ability to interpret complex drawings

Proficiency with estimating software

Advanced Microsoft Excel skills

Strong analytical skills

Effective communication

Ability to manage multiple bids

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Tools

Estimating software (Bluebeam, PlanSwift)

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Project Estimator to join our growing team. This role plays a critical function in the preconstruction lifecycle, developing accurate, strategic, and competitive cost estimates across a diverse portfolio of projects.

The Project Estimator will own the full bid process—from initial document review through final submission—while identifying risk, analyzing constructability, and collaborating cross-functionally to ensure successful project execution from concept through operational handoff.

This position requires strong technical knowledge, commercial awareness, and the ability to think beyond numbers. The ideal candidate understands how to balance competitiveness with profitability and can clearly communicate scope assumptions, pricing strategy, and risk considerations to internal stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the estimating process from document review through final bid submission
• Review drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, addenda, and bid documents to understand full scope
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs using digital estimating platforms and manual validation
• Develop comprehensive cost models including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and general conditions
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing, ensuring full scope coverage
• Level and compare subcontractor bids, identifying gaps, exclusions, and inconsistencies
• Analyze production rates, crew structures, equipment utilization, and project phasing
• Evaluate site conditions, logistics, permitting requirements, and schedule constraints impacting cost
• Identify risk exposure, scope gaps, and constructability issues during pre-bid
• Develop value engineering and cost-optimization strategies
• Attend pre-bid meetings, job walks, and coordination calls as required
• Prepare bid summaries, internal review presentations, and executive approval packages
• Support post-bid negotiations and scope clarifications
• Maintain historical cost databases to improve forecasting accuracy
• Ensure seamless project turnover by documenting assumptions, inclusions, and awarded scope
• Participate in post-project cost analysis reviews to refine estimating practices

Qualifications

• 5+ years of estimating experience in construction, civil, infrastructure, or related industries
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies, sequencing, and cost drivers
• Ability to interpret complex drawings, technical specifications, and contract documents
• Experience building estimates from conceptual budgeting through hard bid submission
• Proficiency with estimating/takeoff software such as Bluebeam, PlanSwift, B2W, HCSS, AGTEK, or similar
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (formulas, pivot tables, cost modeling)
• Strong analytical and quantitative reasoning skills
• Ability to manage multiple bids in deadline-driven environments
• Effective communicator capable of articulating pricing logic and risk
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related discipline preferred

Professional Attributes

• Strategic thinker who understands cost impact and business implications
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Self-starter with strong ownership mindset
• Collaborative and comfortable engaging with operations, field leadership, and executives
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills
• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
• Performance-based incentive structure
• Advancement opportunities within a growing organization
• Exposure to complex and diverse project portfolios