Senior Estimator

Position Summary The Senior Estimator, Construction Capital is responsible for leading the preconstruction estimating process for ground-up construction and major capital improvement projects. This role develops accurate, competitive cost estimates from conceptual through bid phases, supports value engineering efforts, and collaborates closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, and clients to ensure project budgets are aligned with scope and market conditions. The Senior Estimator plays a critical role in winning work and setting projects up for financial success. Responsibilities Estimating & Bid Development Lead the preparation of detailed cost estimates for capital construction projects from conceptual through GMP/lump sum bid phases. Perform quantity takeoffs for all trades including civil, structural, architectural, MEP, and site work. Develop and maintain unit cost databases and historical cost data. Prepare bid packages and solicit subcontractor and vendor pricing. Analyze subcontractor bids and level scopes for accuracy and completeness. Finalize and present estimates to leadership and clients. Preconstruction Coordination Collaborate with Project Managers and Superintendents during preconstruction to align estimates with constructability and field execution. Participate in owner and design team meetings to support early-phase budget development. Support design development and schematic design estimates. Assist in developing project schedules and phasing plans during preconstruction. Coordinate with subcontractors and vendors to obtain competitive pricing. Value Engineering & Scope Management Lead value engineering efforts to identify cost savings without compromising quality or scope. Review drawings and specifications for constructability issues and cost impacts. Provide alternate pricing and options to support owner decision-making. Ensure scope gaps and exclusions are clearly identified in estimates. Subcontractor & Vendor Relations Develop and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors. Solicit, review, and level subcontractor bids for all trades. Ensure subcontractor scopes are complete and competitive. Support subcontractor prequalification processes. Documentation & Reporting Maintain organized estimate files, bid logs, and preconstruction documentation. Prepare estimate summaries and presentations for leadership and clients. Track bid results and maintain win/loss data for continuous improvement. Support post-bid analysis and lessons learned reviews. Team Leadership & Mentorship Mentor and develop junior estimators and project engineers supporting preconstruction. Establish estimating standards, templates, and best practices. Support training and development of the preconstruction team. Criteria/Qualifications 7–10+ years of experience in construction estimating, with a focus on capital or ground-up projects. Strong knowledge of all construction trades, materials, and methods. Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., Procore, Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Sage Estimating). Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications. Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills. Experience with GMP, lump sum, and design-build delivery methods. Education Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred. Certifications LEED AP preferred OSHA 30 preferred CCM or CPE a plus Key Competencies Construction Estimating Quantity Takeoff & Bid Development Value Engineering Subcontractor Management Preconstruction Coordination Communication & Presentation Attention to Detail Team Leadership <