What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Estimator position at Niche SSP - No.1 for Estimating Talent?
Title: Senior Estimator/Lead Estimator
Location: Mid-Sized Local GC
Salary: Up to $140k base
On Offer:
- Key leadership role with opportunity to build and lead an estimating team
- Tight-knit, family-style culture.
- Flexible working hours.
- Drive innovation in the tech side of the preconstruction team.
Responsibilities:
- Take full ownership of estimating for all retail and senior living projects
- Prepare detailed cost estimates from conceptual design through final bid
- Perform accurate quantity take-offs across CSI divisions using digital tools.
- Develop conceptual budgets and detailed estimates at schematic, DD, and CD stages
- Identify and evaluate risks, constructability issues, and value engineering opportunities
- Solicit and manage subcontractor and supplier bids, ensuring coverage and completeness
- Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors and vendors to secure competitive pricing
- Conduct bid leveling and scope reviews to ensure alignment with project requirements
- Collaborate closely with project managers, architects, and engineers to clarify scope and resolve discrepancies
- Present estimates and cost breakdowns to owner and stakeholders
- Mentor and support future junior estimators as the team grows
Requirements:
- 8 years of experience in commercial construction estimating
- Strong ability to manage estimating independently on projects from $1M–$18M
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting drawings and specifications
- Strong knowledge of construction means, methods, and building codes
- Experience with estimating software and digital takeoff tools (Procore preferred but not required)
- Excellent communication, organizational, and time management skills
- Experience with retail or nursing home projects preferred
- Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred but not essential
Salary : $100,000 - $140,000