Senior Estimator - Advanced Tech & Life Sciences

DPR Construction; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

DPR Construction is seeking an experienced Estimator to work on negotiated commercial projects, focusing on advanced technology and life sciences markets. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience in commercial construction estimation, with a strong track record of collaborating with architects and subcontractors.

In this role, you will lead the preparation of detailed cost estimates, engage in the bidding process, and contribute to RFP responses.

Strong problem-solving skills and proficiency with various estimating software will be key to success in this position.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience as a commercial construction estimator, preferably in advanced technology and life sciences markets.
• Flexible, detail-oriented team player capable of managing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines.
• Excellent listening and communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Work primarily on negotiated commercial projects in advanced technology and life sciences markets.
• Collaborate closely with architects, engineers, owners, and subcontractors.
• Prepare detailed conceptual cost estimates and studies from schematic or feasibility documentation.

Skills

Commercial construction estimation

Problem-solving skills

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Managing multiple tasks

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Estimating software (WinEst, Timberline)

Take-off software (On-Screen Takeoff)

BIM tools (Revit, Assemble)

Project management software (CMiC)

Scheduling software (Primavera)

Job description

Responsibilities

• Work primarily on negotiated commercial projects in advanced technology and life sciences markets.
• Collaborate closely with architects, engineers, owners, and subcontractors.
• Handle the project from first estimate through formalized subcontracts.
• Ask critical questions and provide a complete project cost evaluation.
• Advocate for customers, empowering and informing them throughout the project.
• Provide innovative solutions to complex cost, lead‑time, trade partner, and materials issues.
• Make reliable cost predictions across all scopes of work.
• Prepare detailed conceptual cost estimates and studies from schematic or feasibility documentation.
• Develop variance summaries between estimates and value‑engineering studies as design evolves.
• Compile a presentation‑worthy estimate package that clearly communicates project cost.
• Collaborate with the project team to establish staffing and project requirements.
• Understand unit costs and factors affecting construction cost.
• Prepare detailed bidder instructions, trade‑specific clarifications, and comprehensive bid packages.
• Engage in the bidding process: solicit bids, communicate with bidders, evaluate subcontractor proposals, and use bid tally sheets.
• Make subcontractor award recommendations to customers/owners and negotiate final subcontracts.
• Participate and often lead the preparation and presentation of cost/budget information to the customer/owner.
• Contribute to request‑for‑proposal responses (RFPs) and formal project presentations.
• Engage and develop business with new and existing customers.
• Lead and facilitate value‑engineering sessions with the project and design teams.
• Review construction contracts, identifying key insurance and damages clauses.
• Lead, manage, and motivate project teams during the pre‑construction phase.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience as a commercial construction estimator, preferably within DPR’s core markets.
• Flexible, detail‑oriented team player capable of managing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines.
• Excellent listening and communication skills.
• Creative and innovative problem‑solving on a project‑by‑project basis.
• Ability to identify, adapt to, and resolve complex issues.
• Effective participation in a team environment, with both internal and external teammates.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, estimating software (WinEst, Timberline, or similar), take‑off software (On‑Screen Takeoff, or similar), BIM tools (Revit, Assemble, etc.), project management software (CMiC or similar), and scheduling software (Primavera or similar).
• Bachelor’s degree is a plus but not required.
• A strong work ethic and a “can‑do” attitude.

DPR is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions at DPR are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical or mental disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, medical history, or genetic information, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. DPR will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. Read more in our EEOE Policy.

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