Senior Estimator

Position Overview

The Senior Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, comprehensive, and competitive construction cost estimates for multifamily residential projects during all phases of preconstruction and project planning. This role serves as a key technical resource within the estimating team, providing detailed cost analysis, quantity takeoffs, bid evaluations, and budget development to support successful project execution.

The ideal candidate brings extensive multifamily construction estimating experience, strong subcontractor and vendor relationships, and a deep understanding of construction costs, market conditions, and preconstruction processes.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Cost Analysis

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for multifamily construction projects, including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and general conditions.
• Perform comprehensive quantity takeoffs and apply appropriate unit pricing methodologies.
• Review project drawings, specifications, contracts, and other construction documents to accurately define project scope and requirements.
• Conduct site visits and collaborate with project stakeholders to gather information necessary for accurate budgeting and forecasting.
• Utilize historical cost data, industry benchmarks, and market trends to develop competitive and realistic project estimates.
• Maintain and contribute to cost databases and estimating resources.
• Analyze actual project costs versus estimated costs and identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Support project handoffs by communicating budgets, assumptions, and estimate details to operations and project management teams.

Bid Management & Vendor Coordination

• Develop bid packages and scope sheets for subcontractors and suppliers.
• Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals.
• Perform bid leveling, scope comparisons, and cost normalization to ensure accurate evaluations.
• Maintain subcontractor and supplier databases, including qualification and performance records.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
• Support contract negotiations and procurement activities as needed.
• Participate in preconstruction meetings and bid review sessions.

Budgeting & Project Support

• Collaborate with project management teams to ensure estimates align with project budgets and objectives.
• Monitor project cost variances and provide recommendations to improve forecasting accuracy.
• Review change orders for pricing accuracy, quantity verification, and budget impact.
• Identify estimating risks, schedule concerns, and cost-saving opportunities during preconstruction.
• Assist in maintaining project schedules by ensuring estimating and bid activities are completed on time.

Leadership & Mentorship

• Provide guidance and support to junior estimators and estimating team members.
• Share best practices, technical knowledge, and estimating methodologies with team members.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the estimating function.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of construction estimating experience with a primary focus on multifamily residential projects.
• Strong knowledge of multifamily construction methods, building systems, materials, and industry standards.
• Experience preparing detailed conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates.
• Strong understanding of subcontractor procurement, bid solicitation, and bid analysis processes.
• Proficiency with construction estimating software, Bluebeam, Procore, Microsoft Office Suite, and related industry tools.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred

• Experience with mixed-income, affordable housing, workforce housing, or large-scale multifamily developments.
• Experience mentoring or training junior estimators.
• Knowledge of regional subcontractor and supplier markets.
• Experience supporting preconstruction and value engineering initiatives.