Chief Estimator

CARBO•Benbrook, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Chief Estimator will lead all estimating functions across a diverse portfolio of development projects, serving as a key strategic partner to the development and construction teams. This role is ideal for a high-performing Senior/Lead Estimator at a general contractor who is ready to take ownership of the full estimating process, influence project outcomes earlier in the lifecycle, and help build and scale estimating operations within a growing organization. The Chief Estimator will be responsible for overseeing project budgeting from early concept through final pricing, guiding value engineering efforts, and ensuring alignment between design intent, cost, and execution strategy. This role will also play a critical part in developing processes, mentoring team members, and improving the company’s overall approach to preconstruction. Projects will vary widely in size and scope and include new construction and renovations across hospitality, multi-family, general commercial, food and beverage, office, infrastructure, and HUD-funded or HUD-regulated developments. This is a highly visible role within a dynamic and growing development team, offering the opportunity to shape both projects and internal processes while growing into a broader leadership position.

Requirements

10+ years of experience in construction estimating, preferably with a general contractor, including experience as a Senior or Lead Estimator.
Proven ability to manage full-cycle estimating processes across multiple project types and sizes.
Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and sequencing, with the ability to think beyond the drawings.
Experience collaborating with operations teams and understanding how estimates translate to field execution.
Proficiency with estimating and construction software such as Bluebeam (required), Procore, BuildingConnected, On-Screen Takeoff, and AutoCAD.
Strong leadership potential, with the desire and ability to grow into a team leadership role.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Strong communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally with development, design, and construction teams.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with conceptual estimating and early-stage budgeting is highly preferred.
Exposure to HUD construction requirements is a plus, or willingness to learn compliance and certification processes.

Responsibilities

Lead all estimating efforts across multiple projects, from early conceptual budgeting through final bid and GMP development.
Establish and standardize estimating processes, tools, and best practices to support a growing project pipeline.
Review and interpret project plans, specifications, and design documents to ensure a complete understanding of scope and intent.
Define and validate project scope, including delineation between general contractor, subcontractor, and owner-performed work.
Oversee and perform detailed quantity takeoffs, ensuring accuracy across materials, labor, and equipment.
Develop and manage project budgets, cost plans, and detailed estimates at various stages of design.
Identify cost risks, gaps, and value engineering opportunities early in the design process.
Lead value engineering efforts in collaboration with development, design, and operations teams to optimize cost and constructability.
Solicit, level, and evaluate subcontractor and vendor pricing to ensure competitive and complete coverage.
Partner closely with project managers and construction teams to ensure estimates align with execution strategies and field realities.
Support change order pricing and cost analysis for active projects.
Maintain organized and auditable estimate documentation, assumptions, and historical cost data.
Contribute to the development of internal cost databases and benchmarking tools.
Assist in building and mentoring an estimating team as the company grows.
Maintain familiarity with HUD-funded or HUD-regulated project requirements and ensure estimates align with applicable standards.
Support compliance with HUD-related construction certification and documentation requirements.