Senior Project Estimator: Cost Strategy & Leadership

DPR Construction; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 200,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

DPR Construction in Palo Alto, CA seeks a senior estimator to lead development and execution of complex project cost estimates that influence acquisition, profitability, and growth. You will mentor teams, optimize processes, and coordinate with Family of Companies to align pricing, scope, and budgets.

The role requires strong analytical skills, market insight, and the ability to negotiate pricing with vendors and partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, a related field, or equivalent experience required.

Responsibilities

• Leads the preparation and validation of comprehensive cost estimates for complex or high-value projects, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and alignment with organizational goals.
• Directs multidisciplinary teams in the review of project documentation, risk analysis, and constructability assessments to optimize estimate quality and project outcomes.
• Develops and implements advanced estimating tools, methodologies, and benchmarking processes to enhance accuracy and efficiency across the organization.
• Advises executive leadership and project sponsors on cost strategies, risk mitigation, and leads value engineering price efforts supporting strategic decision-making.
• Negotiates with vendors, subcontractors, and partners to secure optimal pricing and contractual terms for major project components.
• Drives continuous improvement by evaluating estimating performance, capturing lessons learned, and institutionalizing leading practices.
• Mentors team members by sharing expertise, resources and guidance on complex estimating processes and procedures.

Education

Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, a related field, or equivalent experience required

Job description

DPR Construction in Palo Alto, CA seeks a senior estimator to lead development and execution of complex project cost estimates that influence acquisition, profitability, and growth. You will mentor teams, optimize processes, and coordinate with Family of Companies to align pricing, scope, and budgets.

The role requires strong analytical skills, market insight, and the ability to negotiate pricing with vendors and partners.