Senior Construction Estimator

SL Recruit; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

SL Recruit is seeking a Senior Estimator for a long-established construction firm focused on large commercial, institutional, and healthcare projects in the Mid-Atlantic. Based in Winchester, VA, you will lead preconstruction, provide cost proposals, and mentor junior estimators.

You will analyze plans, develop budgets from conceptual to GMP stages, and collaborate with operations to align means and durations while building strong subcontractor relationships.

Qualifications

• Experience leading preconstruction and bid processes for commercial projects.
• Ability to develop detailed estimates across design stages.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze plans, specifications, and addenda to determine scope and risks.
• Develop detailed estimates and budgets from concept to GMP stages.
• Solicit, scope, and evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals; level bids.
• Prepare complete bid packages and clarifications aligned with requirements.
• Lead and mentor estimators and preconstruction staff.
• Coordinate with operations, scheduling, and field teams to align estimates with means and durations.
• Build relationships with subcontractors and suppliers to improve pricing.

Skills

Cost estimation

Bid management

Mentoring

Preconstruction

Plan analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management

Job description

We are a long-established construction firm that focuses on larger commercial, institutional & healthcare projects in the Mid-Atlantic region, often partnering with public and private owners on complex jobs. We are seeking a Senior Estimator for our team based in Winchester, VA.

Responsibilities:

A Senior Estimator for a general contractor leads the full preconstruction and bidding process to produce accurate, competitive, and well-qualified cost proposals for commercial projects. This role combines technical quantity takeoff, market pricing, and strategic bid oversight while mentoring junior estimators and partnering closely with operations.

• Analyze plans, specifications, and addenda to determine complete project scope and identify cost, schedule, and constructibility risks.


• Develop detailed cost estimates and budgets at conceptual, schematic, design development, and GMP/bid-document stages.


• Solicit, scope, and evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals; level bids and clarify inclusions/exclusions.


• Prepare complete bid packages, proposal documents, and clarifications aligned with company and client requirements.

Leadership And Collaboration

• Lead, train, and mentor estimators and preconstruction staff, assigning tasks and reviewing deliverables.


• Coordinate with operations, scheduling, and field teams to align estimates with planned means, methods, and durations.


• Build and maintain strong relationships with key subcontractors and suppliers to improve coverage and pricing.