Senior/Chief Construction Estimator

Francis Construction Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm in Chicago is seeking a Senior/Chief Construction Estimator to prepare competitive estimates and bids for various projects. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, extensive experience in demolition, and proficiency in estimating software. This role offers opportunities for professional growth in a fast-paced environment with occasional site visits.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience as an Estimator in demolition, excavation, or general contracting.
• Strong understanding of demolition methods and structural systems.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates and bid packages for construction projects.
• Analyze project requirements and prepare cost breakdowns.
• Collaborate with project management to transition awarded projects.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication

Attention to Detail

Education

Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management

Tools

PlanSwift

Bluebeam

Microsoft Excel

MS Project

Primavera

Job description

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Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Estimator with 2–4 years of experience in site demolition, building demolition, excavation, and general contracting. The successful candidate will support the estimating and preconstruction teams by preparing accurate, competitive, and thorough estimates and bids for commercial, industrial, and residential projects. This role requires an understanding of demolition and excavation processes, a strong analytical mindset, and excellent communication skills to coordinate with clients, subcontractors, and internal teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Estimating & Pre-construction:
  • Prepare detailed estimates and bid packages for building demolition, excavation, site demolition, and general construction projects.
  • Interpret architectural, structural, and civil plans/specifications and extract quantities and scopes.
  • Perform quantity take-offs using manual methods and estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or On-Screen Takeoff).
  • Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations for accuracy and competitiveness.
  • Develop scopes of work and ensure alignment with project requirements and bid inclusions/exclusions.
• Cost Analysis & Proposal Development:
  • Analyze project requirements, site conditions, and constraints to determine pricing and scheduling impacts.
  • Prepare detailed cost breakdowns, labor and equipment productivity calculations, and risk analysis.
  • Develop bid proposals and presentations that communicate estimate scope, assumptions, and strategy.
• Collaboration & Communication:
  • Work closely with the project management team to transition awarded projects smoothly.
  • Maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.
  • Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and walkthroughs as required.
• Technology & Process:
  • Maintain estimating databases, unit cost records, and historical cost data for continuous improvement.
  • Utilize estimating tools and software to increase efficiency and accuracy.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Associate or bachelor’s degree in construction management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred. Equivalent experience considered.
• Experience: 8-10 years of experience as an Estimator in demolition, excavation, or general contracting.

Technical Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of demolition methods, structural systems, soil types, shoring, and site logistics.
• Software Proficiency: Proficient with estimating software such as PlanSwift, Bluebeam, Microsoft Excel, and scheduling tools (e.g., MS Project or Primavera).
• Math and Analytical Skills: Strong quantitative and analytical ability with excellent attention to detail.
• Communication: Clear verbal and written communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments and with external stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience estimating selective demolition, interior gut jobs, or structural takedowns.
• Understanding of environmental remediation, asbestos abatement, or hazardous material removal.

Work Conditions:

• Office-based with occasional site visits required.
• Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Travel to bid meetings, job walks, and project sites may be required (typically local or regional).
• Opportunities for growth and professional development.