Position Overview

The Lead Estimator is responsible for managing the estimating department while also serving as a working estimator. This role combines leadership and technical expertise to ensure accurate, timely, and competitive bids while supporting the department’s processes, goals, and key performance indicators (KPIs). The Lead Estimator plays a critical role in understanding client needs and delivering tailored roofing solutions that build trust, confidence, and long-term relationships, while maintaining accountability for individual and departmental performance.

Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

• Oversee daily coordination of the estimating department, including assigning and reviewing workloads.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to estimators while maintaining personal estimating responsibilities.
• Assist in developing departmental goals, objectives, and KPIs, monitor progress, and share results with management.
• Promote best practices, consistency, and continuous improvement within the estimating function.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align estimating efforts with company objectives.

Client Engagement

• Actively listen to clients to identify their needs and propose effective solutions.
• Establish and maintain trust and rapport with prospective and existing clients.
• Qualify prospects to confirm authority and ability to make purchasing decisions.
• Clearly communicate the company's services, capabilities, and areas of expertise.
• Maintain a consistent prospecting process to build and sustain a strong project pipeline.

Documentation & Reporting

• Accurately maintain all required information within the CRM system for reporting and documentation purposes.
• Review and approve estimates and proposals the team prepares before client submission.
• Obtain management approval before delivering final proposals to clients.

Estimating & Project Preparation

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for commercial roofing and related scopes of work. Review project plans, specifications, and bid documents to identify requirements, risks, and opportunities.
• Develop comprehensive job packages that include written project descriptions, detailed roof maps, photographs, measurements, and penetration locations to support accurate cost estimates.
• Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate subcontractor and supplier pricing to ensure competitiveness.
• Ensure estimates are accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
• Prepare and submit complete turnover packages for Operations, including all contract documents, vendor quotes, manufacturer pre-installation notices, submittals, and change orders.
• Produce required submittals and ensure all documentation meets project specifications and client requirements.
• Maintain knowledge of market conditions, material pricing, and industry trends.
• Conduct periodic site visits to monitor project progress.
• Perform final client meetings to deliver warranties and promote maintenance agreements for completed projects.

Process Improvement

• Develop and implement standardized estimating procedures, templates, and tools.
• Monitor and analyze bid outcomes to refine accuracy and competitiveness.
• Introduce technology and software solutions that enhance departmental efficiency.

Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s)

• Accuracy of estimates compared to actual project costs.
• Bid hit rate (successful project awards vs. total bids submitted).
• Timeliness of estimate completion relative to deadlines.
• Departmental efficiency (throughput, workload management, and resource utilization).
• Staff development and retention within the estimating team.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of estimating experience, with at least 2–3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Strong knowledge of construction means, methods, and materials, particularly in roofing.
• Proven ability to balance personal estimating responsibilities with providing guidance and coordination for a small team.
• Proficiency with estimating software and MS Office Suite; familiarity with CRM and project management tools is a plus.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Physical capability to carry and climb ladders, work confidently on rooftops, take core samples, and thoroughly document roof conditions and measurements.

Performance Goals

• Establish and maintain departmental KPIs within the first 90 days.
• Increase bid accuracy and reduce variance between estimated and actual project costs.
• Improve departmental efficiency through process and system enhancements.
• Mentor junior estimators to become self-sufficient and capable of leading bids independently.

Demonstrates Core Values

• Self-Motivated: Demonstrates initiative and a proactive approach to tasks.
• Integrity: Upholds honesty and transparency in all work and interactions.
• Passionate: Shows enthusiasm and dedication to delivering quality results.
• Customer-Oriented: Focuses on meeting and exceeding customer expectations through quality work and service.
• Collaborative: Works well with team members, contributing to a positive and cooperative team environment.
• Pursuit of Improvement: Continuously seeks to improve skills and processes, embracing new challenges and learning opportunities.
• Take Ownership: Takes responsibility for actions and outcomes, ensuring high standards of work.

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