Senior Estimator: Lead Bid Strategy & Cost Precision

Plank LLC; City of Schenectady, Northern (NY, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Job summary

Plank Construction Services in Schenectady, NY is seeking a Senior Estimator to lead estimating and preconstruction efforts for commercial construction projects. This role is critical to developing accurate, competitive bids and securing new work.

You will manage the full bid lifecycle, perform quantity takeoffs with digital tools, review documents for scope gaps and risks, and coordinate with subs, clients, and internal teams to deliver proposals on time.

Qualifications

• 5–10+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating.
• Strong knowledge of general construction means and methods.
• Proven ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in estimating and takeoff software (On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, or similar).
• Experience with AI-driven or advanced construction technology is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full estimating and bid process from document review through submission.
• Develop complete, accurate cost estimates aligned with drawings, specifications, and contracts.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs using digital tools (On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, or similar).
• Analyze project documents to identify scope gaps, risks, and cost drivers.
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and vendor pricing.
• Ensure all scopes are covered and properly carried within each estimate.
• Identify and communicate project risks, and develop strategies to competitively mitigate them.
• Lead and facilitate internal bid reviews with leadership.
• Prepare proposals, scope narratives, and clarifications for submission.
• Develop preliminary project schedules when required.
• Ensure compliance with project requirements, including MWBE and SDVOB participation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Track estimate performance and continuously improve pricing accuracy and processes.

Skills

Bid management

Leadership

Communication

Reading plans

Team collaboration

Tools

On-Screen Takeoff

Bluebeam

Microsoft 365

AI tools

Job description

Plank Construction Services in Schenectady, NY is seeking a Senior Estimator to lead estimating and preconstruction efforts for commercial construction projects. This role is critical to developing accurate, competitive bids and securing new work.

You will manage the full bid lifecycle, perform quantity takeoffs with digital tools, review documents for scope gaps and risks, and coordinate with subs, clients, and internal teams to deliver proposals on time.