Experience and Skills:
Roles and Responsibilities
1. Cost Estimation
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Quantity Takeoffs: Perform detailed measurements and
calculations of materials, labor, and equipment needed for the project.
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Cost Analysis: Develop accurate cost breakdowns for materials,
labor, subcontractors, and other resources.
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Pricing: Research and apply current market rates for
materials, labor, and equipment to ensure accurate estimates.
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Contingency Planning: Include allowances for unforeseen
factors or risks that may impact project costs.
2. Document Analysis
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Blueprint Review: Analyze architectural and engineering
drawings to understand project scope and requirements.
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Specifications Evaluation: Review project specifications to
ensure all materials, finishes, and methods are accounted for.
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Bid Documents: Examine RFPs, RFQs, and other client documents
to determine bidding requirements and criteria.
3. Bid Preparation
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Proposal Development: Prepare complete and competitive bid
proposals, including detailed cost breakdowns.
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Scope Clarification: Ensure the scope of work is clearly
defined and aligned with the bid package.
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Subcontractor Coordination: Solicit, review, and incorporate
bids from subcontractors into the overall estimate.
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Deadline Management: Meet tight deadlines for bid submissions
without compromising accuracy.
4. Collaboration and Communication
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Team Coordination: Work closely with project managers,
engineers, and other team members to ensure estimates align with
project execution capabilities.
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Vendor and Subcontractor Relationships: Build and maintain
relationships with suppliers and subcontractors to secure
competitive pricing.
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Client Interaction: Communicate with clients to clarify scope,
address questions, and discuss value-engineering opportunities.
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Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with legal and
operations teams to ensure estimates comply with contracts and
project execution plans.
5. Market Research
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Material Costs: Stay updated on market trends and fluctuations
in material prices.
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Labor Rates: Monitor regional labor rates and availability.
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Industry Standards: Keep informed about building codes, safety
regulations, and construction trends that may impact project costs.
6. Technology and Tools
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Estimating Software: Utilize tools like Procore, Bluebeam,
PlanSwift, or Timberline to create accurate and efficient estimates.
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Data Management: Maintain a database of historical costs and
project records to improve future estimates.
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Automation: Leverage digital tools to streamline the
estimation process and reduce errors.
7. Risk Assessment
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Potential Challenges: Identify potential risks, including
scope changes, supply chain disruptions, and labor shortages, and
account for them in estimates.
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Mitigation Strategies: Develop contingency plans to address
potential cost overruns or project delays.
8. Continuous Improvement
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Feedback Utilization: Analyze feedback from completed projects
to refine future estimating practices.
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Process Optimization: Identify and implement ways to improve
efficiency and accuracy in the estimation process.
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Training and Development: Stay updated on advancements in
construction techniques, materials, and technology.
Key Skills and Competencies
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Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to analyze and interpret
data, plans, and specifications.
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Attention to Detail: Precision in calculations and
documentation to avoid costly errors.
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Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of construction
methods, materials, and labor requirements.
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Communication Skills: Effective communication with internal
teams, subcontractors, and clients.
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Time Management: Ability to manage multiple estimates and meet
deadlines under pressure.
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Negotiation Skills: Expertise in negotiating pricing with
vendors and subcontractors.
Key Outcomes Expected from an Estimator
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Accurate and competitive estimates that help win profitable projects.
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Well-organized and detailed bid submissions that meet client requirements.
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Strong relationships with suppliers and subcontractors to
secure competitive pricing.
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Improved cost predictability and profitability for the company.
The Estimator reports to the Chief Estimator. Their role is
critical to ensuring the financial success of construction projects
and the company's ability to remain competitive in the market.
DISCLAIMER: All the above duties and responsibilities are
essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation and
change. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of
knowledge, skills, and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the
job proficiently. You may be required to perform other or different
job-related duties as requested by the Corporate Safety Director,
subject to reasonable accommodation. This document does not create
an employment contract, implied or otherwise. Employment with the
Company is "at-will." The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer
