Strategic Senior Estimator - Lead Major Construction Bids

RockBridge Search; Charlotte, Northern (NC, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

RockBridge Search in Charlotte, NC seeks a Senior Estimator to own and lead complex construction estimates from preconstruction through bid submission. You will review drawings, specs, and contracts, perform takeoffs, and develop costed bids with input from PMs, operations, and leadership.

You will leverage market knowledge, analyze risks, and mentor junior estimators while maintaining strong subcontractor relationships to secure competitive pricing and successful project outcomes.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to estimate complex projects with multiple scopes and moving parts.
• Strong understanding of construction means, methods, materials, sequencing, and project delivery.
• Excellent knowledge of plans, specifications, construction documents, and contract requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of detailed estimates for major construction projects from conceptual design through final bid.
• Review drawings, specifications, scopes of work, addenda, and contract documents to develop comprehensive estimates.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop accurate labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and other project costs.
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and vendor proposals.
• Develop competitive and strategic bids while maintaining appropriate margins and project objectives.
• Analyze project plans and specifications to identify scope gaps, inconsistencies, exclusions, and potential risks.
• Work closely with preconstruction, project management, operations, and executive leadership throughout the estimating process.
• Participate in subcontractor and vendor outreach, scope reviews, and pre-bid meetings.
• Develop detailed bid summaries and communicate estimate assumptions, clarifications, exclusions, and areas of concern.
• Evaluate alternate materials, construction methods, sequencing, and value-engineering opportunities.
• Maintain current knowledge of construction costs, labor trends, material pricing, subcontractor markets, and regional conditions.
• Assist with conceptual and budget estimates when project documents are incomplete or still evolving.
• Review historical project data and completed work to improve estimating accuracy and future projections.
• Help establish realistic budgets and provide insight into project feasibility and constructability.
• Track market conditions and maintain strong relationships throughout the subcontractor and supplier community.
• Support turnover from estimating to operations by clearly communicating project scope, assumptions, pricing, and potential challenges.
• Mentor and provide guidance to Estimators and other members of the preconstruction team.
• Take ownership of deadlines and ensure estimates are completed accurately, thoroughly, and on time.

Skills

Estimating complex projects

Construction means & methods

Plans & specs analysis

Subcontractor relations

Communication skills

Estimating software

Budgeting

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

RockBridge Search in Charlotte, NC seeks a Senior Estimator to own and lead complex construction estimates from preconstruction through bid submission. You will review drawings, specs, and contracts, perform takeoffs, and develop costed bids with input from PMs, operations, and leadership.

You will leverage market knowledge, analyze risks, and mentor junior estimators while maintaining strong subcontractor relationships to secure competitive pricing and successful project outcomes.