Senior Commercial Construction Estimator

SBF Search, LLC • Washington, District of Columbia, United States • $120,000 - $180,000 / year • 1m ago

Introduction

The client is a general contractor, specializing in mechanical, electrical, architectural, and renovation projects, primarily serving federal agencies throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.

Position Description & Job Summary

Full ownership of scope development, quantity takeoffs, scope management, proposal preparation, estimating, bid documentation, contract award coordination, and pre-construction planning. You will lead coordination efforts with the estimating and project teams and mentor junior staff members.

Duties and Responsibilities

Review project documents and develop subcontractor scopes of work for multiple concurrent projects. This includes reviewing design narratives and coordinating with design partners to create comprehensive scopes for design-build pursuits.
Coordinate with subcontractors to review scope details, answer questions, resolve issues, negotiate pricing, and ensure complete subcontractor coverage for each project.
Perform quantity takeoffs, summarize quantities in estimate files, and develop pricing for both subcontracted and self-performed work.
Attend project site visits and pre-proposal meetings.
Collaborate with the Chief Estimator and Director of Operations to organize and lead estimates while supporting the training and development of new estimators.
Analyze project documents to prepare clear RFIs and identify potential scope gaps or design omissions.
Support tasks related to bidding, contract awards, planning, execution, and closeout of design-build and construction contracts.
Work closely with Project Managers to assist with:
- Preparation of pre-construction submittals, including submittal registers, transmittal documents, personnel lists, catalog cuts, sample materials, and approval packages for government project managers, contracting officers, architects, and engineers.
- Research related to suppliers, equipment manufacturers, specialty subcontractors, project requirements, and contract documentation.
Participate in industry and subcontractor networking events to establish and maintain strong business relationships.
Coordinate with the estimating team to ensure all project scopes are accurately defined and aligned across trades.
Prepare for bid days by attending review meetings, developing leveling sheets, reviewing proposals, and coordinating with subcontractors.
Lead bid-day proposal submissions and final coordination efforts.
Assist project management teams with pricing, rentals, purchase orders, and related administrative support tasks.
Maintain and organize electronic estimating files and historical project data for future reference.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in engineering, architecture, construction management, or a related discipline.
Minimum of 7 years of estimating experience with a general contractor or subcontractor in the Metro Washington, DC area.
Strong ability to read and interpret technical specifications, construction drawings, contract documents, and project-related materials.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational, technical, and mathematical abilities.
Thorough understanding of construction sequencing and processes, with the ability to provide constructability input during estimating and bidding phases.
Self-motivated with the ability to independently research, initiate, and complete tasks efficiently.
Proficiency in Procore, Excel, Word, On-Screen Takeoff, RS Means, BlueBeam, BuildingConnected, and other construction-related software platforms.
Strong collaboration and team leadership skills.
Ability to maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
Strong sense of urgency and ability to manage multiple priorities and bid proposals simultaneously.

Technical Expertise

Extensive knowledge across all construction divisions, including civil/site construction, foundations, roofing, specialty systems, structural systems, miscellaneous metals, casework, doors, specialties, interior finishes, exterior wall systems, sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems, along with associated construction costs.

Additional Requirements

Candidates must be U.S. Citizens and capable of passing a background investigation. A valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record are required.

Compensation & Benefits

Employees receive 11 paid federal holidays annually, along with two weeks of vacation/personal leave accrued weekly. The company offers subsidized healthcare coverage and a company-matched 401(k) retirement plan. Professional development is strongly encouraged through paid job-related training, including Quality Control Management and Safety certifications. Shared-cost tuition reimbursement for approved job-related coursework is available for employees pursuing professional certifications and career advancement opportunities.