Senior Estimator – Residential

Meritas Advisory Group, LLC; Dublin (OH); On-site; USD 110,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Meritas Advisory Group, LLC is seeking a Senior Estimator – Residential to lead preconstruction estimates for large-scale multi-family, HUD, OFHA, and senior housing projects in Columbus, OH. You will manage the estimating lifecycle, develop takeoffs, and present cost data to clients.

Candidates should have 4–7 years of estimating experience in large residential projects, with HUD and OFHA guidelines. Strong communication and relationships with owners, architects, and subs are essential;

Qualifications

• 4–7 years of estimating experience focused on large multi-family residential, apartments, and senior housing.
• HUD and OFHA estimating guidelines experience.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills to drive subcontractor engagement and client trust.

Responsibilities

• End-to-End Estimating: Lead, create, and complete full project estimates. Review, analyze, and correct estimates produced by other team members.
• Bidding & Scoping: Set up qualified subcontractor bid lists, proactively call subs to drive participation, and thoroughly analyze submitted bids and scopes.
• Takeoffs & Pricing: Complete detailed On-Screen Takeoffs utilizing a strong understanding of current market and unit pricing.
• Value Engineering: Research specified materials, source viable alternatives, and develop value engineering ideas with associated costs.
• Preconstruction Planning: Develop preliminary preconstruction schedules and outline project staffing and General Condition requirements.
• Client & Partner Relations: Prepare presentation documents and professionally present cost information to clients. Build and maintain strong relationships with owners, architects, and subcontractors.

Skills

Estimating

Takeoffs

Bidding

Value engineering

Preconstruction planning

Client relations

Job description

Senior Estimator – Residential

Location: Columbus, OH (Relocation assistance available)

Compensation: $110,000 – $125,000 + bonuses (negotiable based on experience)

The Role

Lead comprehensive preconstruction estimates for large-scale multi-family, apartment, HUD, OFHA, and senior housing projects. You will manage the entire estimating lifecycle, foster key industry relationships, and present accurate cost data directly to clients.

Key Responsibilities

• End-to-End Estimating: Lead, create, and complete full project estimates. Review, analyze, and correct estimates produced by other team members.


• Bidding & Scoping: Set up qualified subcontractor bid lists, proactively call subs to drive participation, and thoroughly analyze submitted bids and scopes.


• Takeoffs & Pricing: Complete detailed On-Screen Takeoffs utilizing a strong understanding of current market and unit pricing.


• Value Engineering: Research specified materials, source viable alternatives, and develop value engineering ideas with associated costs.


• Preconstruction Planning: Develop preliminary preconstruction schedules and outline project staffing and General Condition requirements.


• Client & Partner Relations: Prepare presentation documents and professionally present cost information to clients. Build and maintain strong relationships with owners, architects, and subcontractors.

Requirements

• 4 to 7 years of estimating experience focused on large multi-family residential, apartments, and senior housing.


• Specific experience with HUD and OFHA estimating guidelines.


• Strong communication and relationship-building skills to drive subcontractor engagement and client trust.