Senior Estimator: Lead Budgeting for Complex Construction

W.E. O'Neil Construction; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% ESOP

Competitive Pay

Bonus Program

Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance

PTO/Sick

100% Life Insurance

401(K) with Match

Student Debt Program

Job summary

W. E. O'Neil Construction is seeking a Senior Estimator in Los Angeles to lead the full budget lifecycle for complex projects from conceptual design through bid.

You will develop accurate estimates using historical data and market intelligence, and coordinate with Preconstruction, Operations, and subcontractors to influence outcomes. The role requires 8+ years of estimating experience, strong cost analysis skills, and proficiency with Excel, Bluebeam, PlanGrid/ProCore, and OST.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in construction estimating or preconstruction with a commercial general contractor.
• Proven experience leading budgets, client presentations, and project pursuits.
• Strong knowledge of multiple project types, delivery methods, and construction systems.
• Proficiency in Excel, Bluebeam, PlanGrid/ProCore (or equivalent Electronic Document Viewer), OST (or equivalent Quantity Take-off Software)

Responsibilities

• Lead and control the full budget lifecycle (conceptual through bid), developing accurate estimates using historical data, market intelligence, and subcontractor input.
• Prepare and present budgets and executive summaries to clients, clearly communicating cost drivers, risks, and changes.
• Oversee trade scoping and subcontractor bid analysis, ensuring full scope coverage, pricing accuracy, and risk alignment.
• Track and explain cost variances between estimate phases and support value engineering development.
• Influence bid strategy through scope definition, pricing approach, and subcontractor selection.

Skills

Budget lifecycle management

Estimating strategy

Client presentations

Risk management

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Excel

Bluebeam

PlanGrid/ProCore

OST

Job description

W. E. O'Neil Construction is seeking a Senior Estimator in Los Angeles to lead the full budget lifecycle for complex projects from conceptual design through bid.

You will develop accurate estimates using historical data and market intelligence, and coordinate with Preconstruction, Operations, and subcontractors to influence outcomes. The role requires 8+ years of estimating experience, strong cost analysis skills, and proficiency with Excel, Bluebeam, PlanGrid/ProCore, and OST.