Project Estimator

SL Recruit; Washington, Baltimore (District of Columbia, MD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

SL Recruit is partnering with a well-established general contractor to hire a Construction Estimator for ongoing DMV projects. The role spans from conceptual budgeting through GMP/hard bid, engaging with preconstruction and operations teams to align estimates with execution plans.

You will prepare detailed takeoffs, review bids, build cost databases, and present summaries to leadership. A GC estimating background and strong Excel skills are essential for success in this fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of estimating experience with a GC
• Experience estimating commercial projects across the DMV
• Proficiency with estimating takeoff software and Excel
• Strong understanding of CSI divisions and contract documents
• Ability to manage multiple pursuits with strong client-facing presentation skills

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates across all project phases (conceptual to GMP)
• Solicit and review subcontractor bids; identify gaps and value-engineering opportunities
• Build and maintain cost databases using current market pricing and historical data
• Collaborate with preconstruction, project management and operations to align estimates with execution plans
• Participate in constructability reviews and design-assist efforts with architects/engineers
• Assist with developing project schedules and logistics during pursuits
• Present estimate summaries, budgets, and bid recommendations to leadership and clients
• Track market conditions and subcontractor availability across the DMV region
• Support smooth handoff of awarded projects from preconstruction to field/PM teams

Skills

Estimating takeoffs

Microsoft Excel

GC estimating background

CSI divisions knowledge

Bid presentations

Tools

Takeoff software

Job description

We are partnering with a well-established general contractor with active work across the DMV to find their next Construction Estimator. If you love variety, thrive on repeat client work, and want to run estimates across all phases of a pursuit this one's worth a conversation.

About the Role

The Estimator will prepare accurate, competitive estimates across all phases of project pursuits from conceptual budgeting through final GMP for commercial construction projects throughout the DMV. This is a strong opportunity for an estimator who wants to work across a variety of project types and markets with a firm that has consistent, repeat work in the pipeline.

What You'll Do

• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates at all project phases (conceptual, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and final GMP/hard bid)
• Solicit, review, and level subcontractor and vendor bids/proposals across all CSI divisions; identify scope gaps, qualify bids, and flag value-engineering opportunities
• Build and maintain detailed cost databases using current market pricing, historical data, and production rates
• Collaborate with preconstruction, project management, and operations teams to align estimates with project execution plans
• Participate in constructability reviews and design-assist efforts alongside architects and engineers
• Assist with developing project schedules and logistics plans during the pursuit phase
• Prepare and present estimate summaries, budget comparisons, and bid-day recommendations to leadership and clients
• Track market conditions, material pricing trends, and subcontractor availability across the DMV region
• Support a smooth handoff of awarded projects from preconstruction to the field/project management team

What You Bring

• 5+ years of estimating experience with a general contractor (GC estimating background required)
• Proven experience estimating commercial projects across the DMV market
• Proficiency with estimating takeoff software and Microsoft Excel
• Strong understanding of CSI divisions, construction means and methods, and contract documents
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent pursuits and deadlines, with strong communication and presentation skills for client- and leadership-facing bid presentations