Estimator (Commercial Building)

SUMMARY  
Estimators will work primarily on negotiated commercial projects within our core markets and work closely with architects, engineers, owners, and subcontractors. Responsibilities for this position and required skills include.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. 

• Prepare all discipline estimates for assigned bids.
• Handling the project from first estimate all the way through subcontracts being formalized.
• Ability to look beyond the information that has been given, to ask the right questions and work to provide a complete project cost evaluation.
• Must be a collaborative and passionate advocate for our customers, empowering and informing them throughout the project.
• Must be aggressive in providing innovative solutions to complex issues as they arise related to cost, lead-times,trade partners, and/or specified products or materials.
• Ability to make reliable predictions as it relates to cost and be comfortable estimating across all scopes of work.
• Must have knowledge and understanding of unit costs and the factors that affect construction cost.
• Must have experience with the bidding process: soliciting bids, communicating with bidders, evaluating subcontractor proposals, using bid tally sheets, etc.
• Provide conceptual (or bid work) and supportive estimating input on complex projects.
• Review and incorporate historical data from purchase orders, subcontracts, productivity analysis reports, etc. into unit and man hour figures.
• Coordinate scopes with an array of trades to ensure no scope gaps or double coverage of cost
• Review proposal specifications, drawings, attend pre-bid meetings, etc. to determine scope of work and required contents of estimate.
• Insure all working documents and data are maintained to back-up estimate figures.
• Assist contracting department during preparation of inquiries and final evaluation of submitted bids as required.
• Track awarded contracts as required - may include estimating/pricing extra work items, change orders, credit; procuring materials, etc.
• Other related duties as assigned. 

COMPETENCIES  
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: 

• Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; develops realistic action plans. 
• Cost Consciousness - Works within approved budget; develops and implements cost saving measures; contributes to profits and revenue; conserves organizational resources. 
• Business Acumen - Understands business implications of decisions; displays orientation to profitability; demonstrates knowledge of market and competition; aligns work with strategic goals. 
• Innovation - Displays original thinking and creativity; meets challenges with resourcefulness; generates suggestions for improving work; develops innovative approaches and ideas; presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention. 
• Design - Generates creative solutions; translates concepts and information into images; uses feedback to modify designs; applies design principles; demonstrates attention to detail. 
• Communications - Strong problem solving, risk management, organization, and communication skills.  
• Expresses ideas and thoughts verbally; expresses ideas and thoughts in written form; exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods. 
• Job Knowledge – Strong understanding of construction safety and OSHA requirements.  Strong understanding of construction methods, critical path method scheduling, and interpretation of plans and specifications.  Competent in required job skills and knowledge; keeps abreast of current developments; requires minimal supervision; displays understanding of how job relates to others. 
• Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; collects and researches data; uses intuition and experience to complement data; designs workflows and procedures. 
• Quantity - Meets productivity standards; completes work in timely manner; strives to increase productivity; works quickly. 

QUALIFICATIONS The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 
Education and/or Experience  
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or equivalent combinations of technical training and/or related experience considered. 1-5 years’ experience in estimating, cost control, and/or engineering experience in similar area.  Understanding of estimating techniques, all trade disciplines, cost control systems and accounts required.  Understanding of the project life cycle, including bid, proposal, estimation process, and project management.  The ability to read and navigate through drawings and specifications.  Strong written and verbal communication skills.  Ability to negotiate to drive revenue. Excellent MS Office skills are required, in addition to experience utilizing scheduling and bid/estimating software.