Senior Estimador

Blue View Builder; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Profit sharing

ESOP

Company vehicle

Mileage reimbursement

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) match

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Blue View Builder is seeking an experienced Estimator to produce accurate cost estimates for custom homes, modular/prefab, ADUs, additions, and small multifamily projects in the San Diego area. The role combines site assessment, quantity takeoffs, and detailed pricing across materials, labor, and subs.

You will help drive profitable bids and collaborate with design, sales, and operations to align builds with modular methods.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of estimating experience in residential construction (new builds, remodels, modular/prefab).
• Strong knowledge of California building practices and codes (Title 24).
• Proficiency with estimating software and Excel; experience with CM platforms is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for residential projects including materials, labor, and subcontractors.
• Conduct site visits to assess conditions and quantities.
• Develop bid packages and proposals for clients and leadership.
• Maintain pricing databases and support post-bid analysis and handoff to operations.
• Identify risk, VE opportunities, and cost-saving options.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Analytical skills

Communication

Client-facing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management/Engineering/Architecture

Tools

Procore

Buildertrend

CoConstruct

Excel

Job description

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, detailed cost estimates for residential construction projects (custom homes, modular/prefab homes, ADUs, additions, and small multifamily). This includes analyzing plans and specifications, performing quantity takeoffs, pricing materials/labor/subcontractor work, identifying risks and value-engineering opportunities, and supporting competitive proposals that help win profitable work.

Key Responsibilities

• Review architectural drawings, blueprints, specifications, and other project documents to fully understand scope.
• Conduct site visits (virtual or physical) to assess conditions, measure quantities, and identify challenges.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for materials, labor, equipment, and related costs using digital tools (e.g., Revit, Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, PlanSwift, STACK, or similar).
• Develop comprehensive cost estimates including material pricing, labor productivity, subcontractor bids, general conditions, overhead, contingency, and profit.
• Solicit, evaluate, and level supplier quotes; maintain strong vendor relationships (especially local San Diego/Southern California networks).
• Identify cost-saving opportunities, value engineering options, and potential risks or scope gaps.
• Collaborate with sales, design, project management, purchasing, and production teams to align estimates with build methods (particularly modular/factory-built processes).
• Prepare and present clear proposals and bid packages to clients or internal leadership.
• Track historical costs, update pricing databases, and support post-bid analysis and handoff to operations.
• Ensure estimates comply with California building codes, Title 24, local permitting requirements, and company standards.
• Support continuous improvement of estimating processes, templates, and software.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as an estimator in full-scope residential construction, remodeling, modular/prefab, or general contracting (modular experience preferred).
• Strong knowledge of residential construction methods, materials, sequencing, and California building practices.
• Proficiency with estimating/takeoff software and Microsoft Excel; experience with construction management platforms (Procore, Buildertrend, CoConstruct, etc.) is a plus.
• Ability to read and interpret complex drawings and specifications accurately.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills; client-facing experience preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• Valid driver’s license and ability to visit job sites as needed

Preferred

• Experience with modular, manufactured, or off-site construction.
• Knowledge of sustainable/green building practices and cost implications.
• Local San Diego subcontractor and supplier relationships.

Hybrid or office-based with site visits; full-time, exempt.

• Other incentives: Profit sharing, ESOP (employee stock ownership)
• Allowances: Vehicle/truck allowance or company vehicle + fuel ($500–$1,500+/month common for roles with site visits); mileage reimbursement
• Benefits: Health, dental, vision insurance; 401(k) with company match (often 3–6%); paid time off; professional development, pension, employee discount