Senior Cost Estimator

Richard Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking construction firm that prioritizes innovation and impact in the industry. As part of a rapidly growing team, you'll play a vital role in shaping projects that matter, from healthcare facilities to advanced data centers. This position offers the unique opportunity to work in a collaborative, culture-first environment where your ideas directly influence company direction. With a commitment to mentorship and professional growth, you'll thrive in a setting that values your contributions and supports your career development. If you're ready to make a real difference in construction, this is the place for you.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

Health Savings Account (HSA)

15 days of paid time off (PTO)

7 paid holidays

401(k) matching contributions

Parental leave policy

Transportation cost coverage

On-site meal program

Gym membership reimbursement

Mentorship and training programs

Qualifications

• 10-15+ years of estimating experience required.
• Proficient in estimating software and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Review project plans and develop scope of work and cost estimates.
• Prepare bid packages and review bids for accuracy.

Skills

Estimating Experience

Bidding Federal Projects

Estimating Software Proficiency

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Construction Knowledge

Market Condition Understanding

Time Management

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering

Bachelor’s Degree in MEP Engineering

Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management

Tools

Estimating Software

Excel

Job description

Reports to: Preconstruction Manager

Location: Chicago, IL. (West Loop) (WFH 1 Day/Week)

Join Richard, Purpose Builders: Where Your Impact Matters

At Richard, we're not just another construction company – we're the catalyst for change in the industry. As one of the fastest-growing general contractors in the nation, we offer the excitement and innovation of a startup with the stability and expertise of an established firm. We're seeking visionaries who are ready to break free from the constraints of traditional construction and make a real impact.

Why Choose Richard?

• Culture-First Approach: People and innovation over bottom line
• Purpose-Driven Projects: Build structures that truly matter, from critical healthcare facilities to cutting-edge data centers
• Rapid Growth: Be part of a company doubling in size while maintaining quality
• Collaborative, Caring Culture: Clear communication and proactive problem-solving, while supporting your health, financial wellness, and career growth
• Direct Impact: Your ideas shape our projects and company direction
• Innovation Freedom: Be at the forefront of construction technology and sustainable practices

At Richard, you're not just a number – you're a crucial part of our mission to transform the construction industry. We're creating efficient, dynamic spaces that advance communities, sustainability, and well-being. With nearly 200 diverse contracts since 2016 and a passionate team across the nation, we offer the resources of a large firm with the agility and personal touch of a boutique operation.

Responsibilities:

• Reviews project plans, requirements and specifications to develop a comprehensive understanding of the project and develop scope of work, labor, and equipment costs
• Initiates RFIs as needed for accurate and competitive pricing
• Prepares quantity takeoffs and pricing of scope either through self-perform production-based estimating or unit price estimating
• Assists with estimating preparation and ITB software
• Reviews and understands all bid documents and material requirements to assess constructability and product material requirements
• Prepares bid packages
• Reviews all bids across subcontractors to ensure pricing comparisons are accurate and all missing items are recorded and accounted for
• Prepares estimates according to the requirements of multiple delivery systems
• Reviews quotes and estimates with the project management team
• Understands FAR clauses, the self-performance requirements on Government Contracts

Mandatory Qualifications:

• 10-15+ years of all trade estimating experience
• Experience bidding federal & private sector projects
• Proficient in estimating software and Excel; must be self-sufficient
• Experience bidding commercial building projects
• Experience with design-bid-build and design-build
• Able to produce detailed estimates for 5+ different trade packages
• Experience with construction means and methods, costs and engineering principles
• Engages and coordinates with Estimators on the bid
• Understands costs and market conditions
• Accurately estimates time required to complete actions and activities
• A motivated and driven individual with strong organizational and communication skills
• Able to prioritize tasks in a high-pressure bidding environment
• Advanced computer skills with estimating software
• A desire to stay and grow with a company that will help mentor, train, and educate you

Preferred Qualifications:

• Assisting with the bid process
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, MEP Engineering or Construction Management
• Expertise in building construction
• Experience in a competitive hard bidding environment
• Experience bidding healthcare, and design-build projects
• Experience with Davis Bacon-Prevailing wage or Union required projects
• Experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs, GSA, USACE, Army, Navy, NAVFAC

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) available
• 15 days of paid time off (PTO)
• 7 paid holidays
• All employees are immediately eligible for our bonus program through the Great Game of Business, where employees at all levels are engaged in the financial and operational performance of the business, enabling them to understand how their contributions directly impact the company's bottom line
• Company 401(k) matching contributions
• Parental leave policy
• We fully cover transportation costs, including parking and train fares, for employees working from our Chicago office
• Affordable and freshly made breakfast and lunch provided through our on-site meal program (Chicago home office employees only)
• Gym membership reimbursement program (Chicago home office employees only)
• All employees immediately have access to mentorship, regular skills-based training, and leadership development programs

Richard is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants and employees will receive equal employment opportunities without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]