Assistant Estimator at Cardinal State, LLC

At Cardinal State, LLC we focus on constructing traditional and ecological landscapes that enhance the urban environment both functionally and aesthetically. Our projects include ornamental landscape and hardscape installation, stream and shoreline restoration and stabilization, ecological restoration and stewardship, and green infrastructure installation.

Cardinal State is seeking an Assistant Estimator to support our Head Estimator in developing accurate and competitive proposals for landscape construction projects. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a background in landscape construction, construction, ecological restoration, or a related field who is technically strong, detail-oriented, eager to learn, and ready to grow.

Assistant Estimator Compensation & Benefits:

- We offer a competitive compensation package including an annual base salary of $70,000-$80,000
- Generous monthly healthcare stipend
- 401k with a 4% employer match
- Generous PTO package

Assistant Estimator Responsibilities:

- Review project plans, specifications, and site conditions to assist in developing accurate cost estimates.
- Perform quantity takeoffs using Bluebeam based on project plans and specifications.
- Research material costs, obtain vendor pricing and quotes, and assist with maintaining accurate estimating catalogs.
- Create bid forms, proposal templates, and estimating documents based on project scope.
- Assist the Head Estimator in identifying conflicting information within bid documents and preparing RFIs.
- Support change-order estimating and communicate with General Contractors, vendors, clients, and other project partners.
- Assist with bid and proposal follow-up and help maintain strong client and industry relationships.
- Participate in project handoff meetings and help transition awarded projects from Estimating to Operations.

Assistant Estimator Requirements:

- Bachelor’s degree plus 2+ years of experience in landscape construction, construction, or a related field; OR 5+ years of relevant industry experience with strong computer, communication, and technical skills.
- Familiarity with landscape or construction materials and methods.
- Experience with estimating software such as Bluebeam, LMN, or similar platforms.
- Strong Microsoft Office and general computer skills, including professional email communication, document preparation, and file management.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills with strong attention to detail.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- A proactive mindset with the ability to learn, take initiative, and work collaboratively.

Preferred Requirements:

Experience or knowledge in any of the following areas is a plus:

- Landscape construction materials, plants, erosion control, vendors, and installation methods.
- Native plant identification or ecological restoration.
- Construction project management or estimating.
- IDOT, Illinois Tollway, municipality, or other bid-build contract work.

Work Environment:

This position is approximately 85–90% office-based, with approximately 10–15% local field activity that may include project site visits, client meetings, and business-development activities. No overnight travel is expected.

Why Cardinal State?

This is more than an assistant position, it is an opportunity to learn the estimating process from the ground up, work directly alongside an experienced Estimator, and develop toward owning estimates and projects independently .

If you have construction knowledge, enjoy working with plans and numbers, and are looking for an opportunity where you can continue building your estimating career, we would love to hear from you.

Location : On-site – Addison, IL 60101