The Construction Project Estimator will gather, evaluate, and then prepare detailed total cost information for cost-effectiveness for and during the construction bid process. They may visit construction sites to gather information and analyze proposals, specifications, blueprints, and construction documents to fully understand the project scope. The Construction Project Estimator works closely with project managers to coordinate and oversee the vendors and subcontractors in the bid process. They determine the time, labor, materials, and product costs for the project and communicate the requirements to the client.
Essential Duties:
- Develop detailed project estimates with attention to erosion control, clearing, excavation, water/sewer storm drains, storm water management, curb and site concrete, stone base, and asphalt paving for submittal to appropriate parties.
- Review blueprints, plans, specifications, study documentation, meet with clients, and visit the construction site as needed to fully understand the project as a whole and then prepare detailed estimates.
- Research and acquire subcontractors through competitive quotes and negotiate terms and conditions.
- Estimate time, labor, construction materials, and product costs to determine the overall cost for construction/excavation projects.
- Prepare written proposals, cost estimates, budgets, and updates for the client and the project managers.
- Provide all subcontractors with drawings and specifications prior to the bid process. Obtain multiple quotes and then select the most suitable offers.
- Attend pre bid meetings and job start meetings as needed.
- Adhere to financial constraints without compromising DHM’s high standards.
- Be responsible for reevaluating project needs throughout the course of the project for adjustments.
- Develop and maintain relationships with DHM customers, vendors, and subcontractors.
- Follow up with customers as needed on submitted proposals and budgets.
- Respond to time-sensitive messages and correspondence from customers, vendors, and subcontractors.
- Interact with co-workers and our customers and contractors in a courteous and professional manner.
- High School diploma is required. A degree in construction management, civil engineering, or work experience in a relevant field is a plus.
- Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or other qualification is a plus.
- Prefer 3 – 5 years of experience in the construction industry with a background in estimating large scale for utility construction and/or excavation for both commercial and residential projects with a good understanding of project management concepts.
- Able to read and comprehend instructions in English, and to write and interpret correspondence in English.
- Able to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions provided in both oral and written form.
- Proficiency in MS Office with a focus on Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- Strong mathematical skills and computer skills.
- Multi-tasker – able to manage multiple projects simultaneously using good time management skills.
- Critical thinking skills and analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to solve problems and make effective decisions.
- Above average written and verbal communications skills with attention to detail.
- Be well organized, conscientious, well-spoken, focused, and reliable.
- Ability to read and interpret technical documents.
- Use of AGTEK software and ProContractor software is preferred.
- CAD working knowledge is strongly preferred.
- This is a full-time Monday – Friday position with a typical 45-hour or more workweek.
- There may be peak periods when business need requires additional hours to be worked.
- Work is mainly sedentary and is performed in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards.
- Must have close visual acuity to perform activities such as preparing and analyzing data and figures, viewing a computer screen and use of a telephone, copier, fax, scanner, and various other typical office equipment.
- Work involves repetitive motion, standing, sitting, walking, light lifting, carrying, reaching, kneeling, bending, use of hands/arms/legs/feet.
- The noise level in the office environment is generally very low. On the job sites you may encounter a higher noise level. You will also encounter heavy machinery, trucks, and other moving equipment, as well as walking on uneven ground.
- The Construction Project Estimator typically works at our DHM office location inside in a relatively quiet office environment, with occasional visits to construction sites, or to pre-bid and other job meetings with clients or other contractors. DHM job sites can be considerably noisier due to the nature of the work being done.
- Time may be spent on construction sites reviewing progress and meeting with project stakeholders regarding the project status.
- When you are on the construction job site, safety is a top priority. Estimators need to work safely and wear personal protective equipment such as hard hats, gloves, and sturdy work or safety approved work boots when they are on construction sites.
- They should practice safe driving when traveling for work related visits and meetings.