Construction Estimator - Commercial Projects

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Construction Estimator to lead estimating and preconstruction activities for commercial construction projects in the Richmond, VA area. This position will manage estimates from initial review of plans and specifications through detailed takeoffs, subcontractor solicitation, scope leveling, pricing, and final bid preparation.

The ideal candidate has strong commercial general contracting experience and can independently develop accurate, competitive estimates while identifying scope gaps, cost risks, and constructability concerns before a project moves into construction. This is a hands-on role for someone who understands both the details of estimating and the broader impact of pricing decisions on project execution and profitability.

Responsibilities

- Prepare detailed estimates for commercial construction projects ranging from conceptual budgets through final bid submissions.
- Review drawings, specifications, addenda, bid documents, and project requirements to develop complete scopes of work.
- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
- Solicit, evaluate, compare, and level subcontractor and supplier bids to establish accurate project costs.
- Develop competitive bid proposals and clearly document assumptions, exclusions, alternates, clarifications, and scope gaps.
- Analyze project plans for potential cost, schedule, constructability, and procurement risks.
- Coordinate with project managers, superintendents, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and vendors to resolve scope and pricing questions.
- Maintain current knowledge of material costs, labor rates, subcontractor pricing, and market conditions.
- Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, scope reviews, and client or design-team discussions as needed.
- Track estimates and maintain organized documentation throughout the bidding process.
- Support the transition of awarded projects from estimating to the operations team, ensuring budgets, scopes, assumptions, and bid details are clearly communicated.

Requirements

- 5+ years of commercial construction estimating experience, preferably with a general contractor.
- Experience estimating commercial renovations, tenant improvements, interior construction, or ground-up/vertical construction projects.
- Strong understanding of commercial construction means and methods, materials, labor requirements, sequencing, and project costs.
- Ability to independently read and interpret architectural, structural, MEP, and other construction drawings and specifications.
- Proven experience with detailed quantity takeoffs, subcontractor solicitation, bid leveling, and final bid preparation.
- Strong understanding of subcontractor scopes and the ability to identify missing or overlapping work.
- Proficiency with construction estimating software and technology; Bluebeam Revu experience preferred.
- Strong analytical and organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced preconstruction environment.
- Must have direct hands-on estimating and bid preparation experience rather than primarily project coordination or administrative experience.

Benefits

Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience.

Benefits may include health insurance, retirement plan options, paid time off, and other company-sponsored programs.