Senior Estimator – Residential

Essenti Talent; Dublin (OH); On-site; USD 110,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Essenti Talent in Columbus, OH seeks a Senior Estimator – Residential to lead preconstruction estimates for large multi-family and senior housing projects. You will manage the estimating lifecycle, develop client-ready cost data, and present findings to owners, architects, and subcontractors.

The role requires 4–7 years of estimating experience, HUD and OFHA guidelines knowledge, and strong communication to drive subcontractor engagement and accurate bids.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Lead, create, and complete full project estimates across large residential projects.
• Set up qualified subcontractor bid lists and analyze bids and scopes.
• Perform detailed takeoffs and pricing using current market data.
• Research materials and develop value engineering ideas with costs.
• Develop preliminary preconstruction schedules and staffing plans.
• Present cost information to clients and maintain relationships with owners, architects, and subs.

Skills

Estimating experience

Multi-family focus

Client relationships

Bidding & takeoffs

Tools

Takeoff software

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.