Construction Estimator

Position Overview 

We are seeking an experienced Construction Estimator to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have a robust background in construction and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineering, demonstrating exceptional attention to detail, analytical skills, and a thorough understanding of US construction standards and practices. This role is critical in delivering precise cost estimates and supporting project success from concept through completion.

Key Responsibilities 

1. Cost Estimation and Budget Development

• Preliminary & Detailed Estimates:
  Prepare thorough cost estimates during both conceptual and pre-construction phases, breaking down materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor services for each project type (design-build, solar, lighting, HVAC, CHP, BESS).
• Budget Alignment:
  Work closely with project managers and finance teams to ensure budgets meet project objectives, sustainability goals, and client requirements.
• Value Engineering:
  Proactively identify cost-saving opportunities, recommending alternatives that maintain quality and performance while reducing expenses.
• Accuracy & Consistency:
  Ensure all estimates are complete, precise, and based on the latest market data and historical project information.
  

2. Project Scope Analysis

• Scope Review:
  Analyze detailed project drawings, specifications, and technical documents to fully understand project requirements.
• Risk Assessment:
  Identify potential risks (e.g., material delays, labor shortages, site conditions) and incorporate appropriate contingencies.
• Bid Package Preparation:
  Assemble comprehensive bid packages, ensuring all scope items are clearly defined and included for vendor and subcontractor proposals.

3. Collaboration with Project Teams

• Team Coordination:
  Facilitate regular meetings with project managers, engineers, architects, and sustainability consultants to align estimates with design intent and technical requirements.
• Vendor/Subcontractor Engagement:
  Build strong relationships with vendors and subcontractors, soliciting competitive pricing and validating cost assumptions.
• Client Communication:
  Present clear, detailed cost breakdowns to clients, responding to estimation-related questions and providing expert guidance on budget impacts.

4. Market Research and Cost Analysis

• Market Trends:
  Continuously research current trends in material costs, labor rates, and supply chain dynamics to maintain competitive and accurate estimates.
• Historical Data Utilization:
  Reference and analyze previous project data to benchmark costs and refine estimation accuracy.
• Economic Factors:
  Incorporate inflation, market volatility, and supply chain constraints into cost projections and scenario planning.

5. Estimation Tools and Software

• Software Utilization:
  Expertly use industry-standard estimation tools (ProEst, RSMeans, Bluebeam, or similar) to develop, manage, and update cost estimates.
• Database Management:
  Maintain a current and well-organized cost database of materials, labor, and equipment, updating regularly based on new market information.
• Reporting:
  Generate detailed, actionable reports to support project decision-making, financial planning, and stakeholder communication.

6. Project Categories Expertise

• Design-Build:
  Provide integrated estimates covering all phases, from design through construction, for design-build projects.
• Solar Energy Systems:
  Estimate costs for solar PV systems, including panels, inverters, racking, installation, and grid interconnection.
• Lighting Retrofits:
  Develop estimates for energy-efficient lighting upgrades, including LED retrofits and smart controls.
• HVAC Upgrades:
  Prepare cost projections for HVAC system upgrades, focusing on energy efficiency and sustainability.
• CHP Systems:
  Estimate costs for Combined Heat and Power installations, including engineering, equipment, and integration.
• Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS):
  Provide detailed cost estimates for BESS projects, considering storage capacity, installation, and integration with renewable systems.

7. Risk and Contingency Planning

• Risk Identification:
  Systematically identify and quantify risks associated with cost estimates, including external factors and unforeseen site conditions.
• Contingency Allocation:
  Incorporate appropriate contingency allowances to mitigate financial risks.
• Scenario Analysis:
  Develop alternative cost scenarios to prepare for changes in project scope or market conditions.

8. Documentation and Reporting

• Estimate Documentation:
  Maintain comprehensive records of all estimates, including assumptions, methodologies, and source data for future reference and audits.
• Reporting:
  Generate clear, comprehensive cost reports for internal and external stakeholders, supporting project approvals and financial planning.
• Compliance:
  Ensure all estimates adhere to company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.

Required Qualities

• Analytical:
  Demonstrates strong analytical skills for cost breakdowns, risk assessment, and value engineering.
• Collaborative:
  Works effectively with multidisciplinary teams, vendors, and clients to achieve project goals.
• Communicative:
  Presents complex estimates and financial data clearly and concisely to stakeholders.
• Technically Proficient:
  Expert in construction estimation software and knowledgeable about sustainable infrastructure technologies.
• Detail-Oriented:
  Pays meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of cost estimation and documentation.
• Experienced in Sustainable Infrastructure:
  Has proven experience estimating projects related to renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable technologies.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, MEP, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of construction estimating experience.
• Strong knowledge of construction and MEP engineering principles, methods, and best practices.
• Solid understanding of US construction standards, codes, and regulations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) and other estimating software.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• High attention to detail and superior organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of AutoCAD and/or other design software is a plus.
• Experience or training in MEP engineering is highly desirable.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certifications such as Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or equivalent.
• Experience with large-scale commercial or industrial construction projects.
• Familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools and processes.
• Advanced skills in data analysis and cost modeling.