Trades Estimator

Wolvgroup; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Low-cost medical insurance options

401(k) retirement plan with employer match

Paid time off and parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Profit-sharing / performance-based bonus

Job summary

Wolvgroup in Grand Rapids seeks a Trades Estimator to develop competitive and accurate bid proposals for self-perform work. This key role involves evaluating project requirements, preparing detailed estimates, and collaborating with leadership and project teams throughout the construction lifecycle.

The ideal candidate will have 2–4 years of relevant estimating experience, strong analytical skills, and expertise in construction methodologies. Wolvgroup offers a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• 2–4+ years of estimating experience in commercial or industrial construction trades.
• Ability to perform detailed quantity take‑offs from construction drawings.
• Experience in developing site safety plans.

Responsibilities

• Develop accurate, competitive bid proposals for self‑perform work.
• Review plans to understand scope of work.
• Prepare complete bid proposals including all costs.

Skills

Estimating precision

Analytical thinking

Collaboration with teams

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Procore

Acumatica

Job description

The Trades Estimator is a critical pre‑construction and project support role responsible for developing accurate, competitive bid proposals for self‑perform work. This position owns the estimating process end‑to‑end — from initial go/no‑go assessment through bid submission — and serves as a key consulted resource across project planning, execution, and quality control phases. The Trades Estimator works closely with Operations leadership, Project Managers, and Field Supervisors to ensure project budgets are grounded in accurate quantity take‑offs, qualified vendor quotes, and appropriate markups.

Preconstruction & Estimating — Primary Ownership

• Complete pre‑bid questionnaires to assess project requirements and feasibility
• Review plans, specifications, and RFIs to fully understand scope of work
• Perform detailed quantity take‑offs as the basis for all cost estimates
• Solicit and pre‑qualify vendor quotes and shop drawings
• Prepare complete bid proposals, including all direct and indirect costs
• Submit final bids and lead post‑bid review sessions

In addition, the Estimator provides critical cost expertise during final pricing reviews and go/no‑go decision discussions with leadership.

Project Setup — Supporting Role

• Provide guidance on subcontractor and supplier submittals to ensure scope alignment
• Assist with file management and document control setup in collaboration with the project team
• Maintain awareness of contract execution, project management system setup (e.g., Procore), and accounting integration to ensure accurate transfer of budget data

Quality Control & Safety — Lead for Site Safety Planning

• Develop and author the Site Safety Plan before mobilization
• Contribute expertise to quality control processes and safety standard implementation, ensuring alignment with pre‑construction assumptions

Project Planning, Execution & Closeout — Subject Matter Expert

• Master schedule creation and subcontractor pre‑construction coordination and scheduling
• Project risk identification, ensuring pre‑construction assumptions are accurately reflected
• Submittal package preparation for architect and owner approval
• Kickoff meetings and page‑turn sessions to align field teams with bid intent
• Approval of subcontractor invoices against contracted scope
• Lessons learned documentation at project closeout to improve future estimates

Key Qualities

• Demonstrates strong estimating precision with accurate, defensible cost models
• Applies analytical thinking to assess bid risk, markups, and scope gaps
• Collaborates effectively with field, operations, and project management teams
• Maintains high attention to detail across bid documents and safety planning
• Communicates clearly during project kickoffs, page‑turns, and handoffs
• Proactively identifies and addresses scope gaps and constructability risks early

Qualifications

• 2–4+ years of estimating experience in commercial or industrial construction trades
• Demonstrated ability to perform detailed quantity take‑offs from construction drawings and specifications
• Experience soliciting, reviewing, and leveling subcontractor and vendor quotes
• Familiarity with Procore and Acumatica a plus
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, Word, and Project
• Strong knowledge of construction materials, methods, and trade labor costs
• Ability to develop site safety plans in accordance with applicable regulations
• Experience in Carpentry and steel construction operations
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, and MEP drawings
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for bid presentations and cross‑functional collaboration
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field; equivalent field experience accepted

Benefits

• Low‑cost medical insurance options, including a HDHP with HSA match
• Dental, vision, basic life, voluntary life, short‑ and long‑term disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with generous employer match
• Company holidays, parental leave, and paid time off
• Profit‑sharing / performance‑based bonus
• Personal growth opportunities through training and education; tuition reimbursement
• Opportunities to engage in community involvement and paid volunteer time

Wolverine Construction is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants and employees will receive consideration for employment, or in terms or conditions of employment, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with disability.