Senior Estimator

Absher Construction; Puyallup, Bellevue (WA, WA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully paid medical premiums

Generous PTO policy

401(k) and ESOP retirement benefits

Job summary

Absher Construction in Puyallup, WA is looking for a Senior Estimator to lead complex estimates with clients and internal teams. You'll be responsible for full-scope estimates and managing budgets from concept to proposal.

This role requires 8+ years of construction estimating experience and offers a salary range of $125,000 - $165,000 USD, based on factors like experience and education.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in construction estimating or a related field.
• Experience leading estimates for projects in the ~$40M–$100M+ range.
• Strong experience in design-build or complex project delivery methods.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of full-scope estimates for complex commercial construction projects.
• Manage preconstruction budgets from early concept through final proposal.
• Collaborate with owners, architects, and consultants during design-build pursuits.

Skills

Construction estimating

Risk analysis

Budgeting

Value engineering

Strong communication

Presentation skills

Self-perform concrete estimating

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field

Job description

Celebrating 85 Years of Building With Purpose

At Absher Construction, we’re proud to celebrate over 85 years as one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected general contractors. As a 100% employee‑owned company, we believe our people are our greatest asset and we invest in them like it! From fully paid medical premiums for employees, to a generous PTO policy, 401(k) and ESOP retirement benefits, we offer a total rewards package that reflects the pride and ownership we bring to every project.

This role is for someone who knows how to take a project from concept to a confident number and stand behind it.

As a Senior Estimator at Absher, you’ll lead complex estimates, guide pursuit strategy, and partner directly with owners, clients, and internal teams through preconstruction. You’ll manage risk, drive value engineering, and help position projects for success from the earliest stages.

You’ll also play a key role in developing others on the team and elevating how we approach estimating across the board.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the development of full‑scope estimates for complex commercial construction projects
  • Note: Absher’s market sectors include commercial, K‑12, Transit, Federal, and Public Works
• Manage preconstruction budgets from early concept through final proposal
• Lead design‑build pursuits and collaborate with owners, architects, and consultants
• Analyze drawings and specifications for constructability, risk, and cost impacts
• Develop and present value engineering options and cost strategies
• Build and maintain strong subcontractor relationships and drive bid coverage
• Lead subcontractor bid analysis, scope leveling, and final recommendations
• Identify risks and opportunities and communicate clearly to leadership and clients
• Participate in bid day activities and oversee buyout processes
• Review estimate formatting and ensure alignment with internal systems and cost tracking
• Track historical cost data and apply insights to future pursuits
• Lead and mentor 2–3 estimators and support team development

What You Bring

• 8+ years of experience in construction estimating or a related field
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field, or equivalent experience
• Experience leading estimates for projects in the ~$40M–$100M+ range
• Strong experience in design‑build or complex project delivery methods
• Experience interfacing directly with owners and clients during preconstruction
• Ability to lead full‑scope estimates across multiple trades
• Strong understanding of risk analysis, budgeting, and value engineering
• Experience with self‑perform concrete estimating is a plus
• Strong communication and presentation skills

What Sets You Apart

• You take full ownership of the number and the strategy behind it
• You can lead a pursuit while keeping the team aligned and moving
• You communicate clearly and can articulate risks, gaps, and recommendations
• You’re confident working directly with clients, architects, and subcontractors
• You hold yourself and others accountable for outcomes

This role is primarily based in an office setting with regular interaction on active jobsites. The position involves computer work, collaboration across teams, and occasional exposure to construction site conditions.

All offers are contingent upon a successful background check and drug screen. Absher is a proud Federal Contractor.

Salary offers are typically made between the entry and midpoint of the range and are based on factors such as experience, education, and internal equity.

Pay Transparency

$125,000 - $165,000 USD

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a pre‑employment background check and drug screening. Background checks may include verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and references. For positions with access to company financial accounts or credit card programs, a credit history check may also be conducted.

All screening is conducted in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and applicable state and local laws. Candidates will be asked to provide written consent prior to any screening. If results include information that may affect a hiring decision, candidates will have the opportunity to review and respond to the findings before a final decision is made.

Absher Construction is an equal opportunity employer. Background check results are evaluated in context and do not automatically disqualify applicants.

Absher’s Commitment: Our Pledge to EEOC

At Absher, we are committed to building a culture where everyone can thrive. We welcome diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences and we believe our work is stronger because of them. No employee or applicant will face discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class.

Notice to Staffing Agencies

Please note: We are not accepting unsolicited resumes or inquiries from staffing agencies at this time. Absher employees are not authorized to bind the company to any third‑party recruitment agreements.