Senior Estimator

in Architecture, Engineering & Construction
  • Chicago, IL View on Map
  • Salary: $120,000.00 - $160,000.00
Permanent

Job Detail

  • Experience Level Senior
  • Degree Type Bachelor of Science (BS)
  • Employment Full Time
  • Working Type On Site
  • Job Reference 0000011134
  • Salary Type Annually
  • Industry Construction
  • Selling Points

    Seeking a Developer/General Contractor specializing in design/build projects. Looking for someone who can be a leader on their estimating team.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Estimator with a strong background in design-build industrial projects to join our preconstruction team. The ideal candidate will possess the technical expertise and strategic mindset to lead the development of conceptual and detailed estimates from early planning through bid submission. This role requires a deep understanding of site development, building systems, and MEP components to accurately define scope and pricing for complex industrial projects.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the development of conceptual estimates from site plans, RFPs, and preliminary designs for industrial facilities.
  • Analyze and interpret civil site plans to understand excavation, site balance, detention systems, and utility routing.
  • Create and/or review site utility drawings and develop comprehensive RFP packages for trade bidding.
  • Prepare outline specifications and define scope for all building systems, including:
    • Shell construction: foundations, structural framing, precast, curtain wall, and load-bearing systems.
    • Mechanical systems: RTUs, VAV zoning, radiant heating, and industrial HVAC solutions.
    • Plumbing systems: underground sanitary, storm drainage, domestic water, and roof drainage systems.
    • Electrical systems: lighting, power distribution, and basic low-voltage requirements.
  • Coordinate with design teams and subcontractors to validate scope, identify value engineering opportunities, and ensure alignment with project goals.
  • Develop computer-generated estimates using takeoff tools and estimating software.
  • Maintain historical cost databases and contribute to continuous improvement of estimating processes and tools.

Qualifications:

  • 10+ years of experience in estimating, preferably with a focus on design-build industrial projects.
  • Proven ability to generate accurate conceptual budgets and detailed estimates from minimal information.
  • Strong understanding of site development and civil construction practices.
  • Working knowledge of MEP systems, plumbing layouts, and electrical scopes sufficient to write bid-level scope narratives.
  • Proficiency in estimating software and digital takeoff tools.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, particularly in preparing scope narratives and outline specifications.
  • Highly organized with strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to collaborate across departments including preconstruction, project management, and engineering.

Preferred Software Experience:

  • Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff (OST), Sage Estimating, or equivalent tools

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