Estimator / Senior Estimator

Hotel Rehabs • Chicago, IL

1d • $80,000 - $160,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Hotel Rehabs is growing and actively seeking experienced Estimators and Senior Estimators to join their Preconstruction team. This is an ongoing search for individuals with estimating and preconstruction experience in commercial general contracting, particularly in hospitality renovation, tenant improvement, interiors, and occupied renovation work. The company is open to nationwide candidates, with offices in Chicago and Nashville offering hybrid and remote opportunities based on experience and location. The role emphasizes owning the numbers, driving wins, and building experience, with a focus on analytical, competitive, and resourceful individuals who understand the foundational importance of a strong estimate. The position involves digging into project details, considering constructability and risk, and staying engaged through project turnover to ensure estimating commitments translate into successful projects. Depending on experience, candidates may lead complex estimates independently or be ready to expand their strategic and client-facing capabilities. The company culture is built on four core values: Own It, Be the Problem Solver, Choose Hospitality, and Build Best in Class.

Requirements

• 3+ years of commercial estimating or preconstruction experience within a General Contractor or related construction environment.
• Hospitality renovation, tenant improvement, interiors, multifamily, healthcare, or commercial renovation experience preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Business, Finance, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Strong understanding of construction drawings, specifications, estimating, subcontractor management, and budgeting.
• Experience developing estimates, quantity takeoffs, scopes, and subcontractor bid comparisons.
• Understanding of construction means, methods, materials, and sequencing.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and estimating/construction software such as Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Procore, BuildingConnected, or similar platforms.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines while maintaining accuracy.
• Comfort communicating directly with subcontractors, clients, and internal project teams.
• Willingness to travel as needed for client meetings and project site visits.
• Experience independently leading complex commercial construction estimates (for Senior Estimator level).
• Strong understanding of project risk, constructability, and bid strategy (for Senior Estimator level).
• Proven ability to develop and maintain strong subcontractor relationships (for Senior Estimator level).
• Experience participating in or leading client-facing preconstruction conversations (for Senior Estimator level).
• Ability to identify opportunities to improve scope, pricing strategy, or project delivery (for Senior Estimator level).
• Strong ownership from pursuit through award, buyout, and project handoff (for Senior Estimator level).
• A track record of helping convert estimating opportunities into profitable construction projects (for Senior Estimator level).
• The ability to operate with greater independence and make sound decisions when complete information isn't available (for Senior Estimator level).

Nice To Haves

• Candidates considered at the Senior Estimator level should also demonstrate: Experience independently leading complex commercial construction estimates.
• Strong understanding of project risk, constructability, and bid strategy.
• Proven ability to develop and maintain strong subcontractor relationships.
• Experience participating in or leading client-facing preconstruction conversations.
• Ability to identify opportunities to improve scope, pricing strategy, or project delivery.
• Strong ownership from pursuit through award, buyout, and project handoff.
• A track record of helping convert estimating opportunities into profitable construction projects.
• The ability to operate with greater independence and make sound decisions when complete information isn't available.

Responsibilities

• Develop accurate, competitive estimates for hospitality renovation projects ranging from approximately $100K to $5M+.
• Review and analyze drawings, specifications, scopes of work, PIPs, and other project documentation.
• Perform digital takeoffs and develop detailed estimates, conceptual budgets, and bid packages.
• Solicit subcontractor and vendor proposals and proactively build appropriate trade coverage.
• Review, level, and analyze subcontractor proposals for scope completeness and competitiveness.
• Identify scope gaps, inconsistencies, constructability concerns, and project risks.
• Identify value-engineering opportunities and alternative solutions when appropriate.
• Maintain organized estimate documentation, assumptions, exclusions, and supporting information.
• Manage multiple active estimates while meeting internal and client deadlines.
• Participate in estimate reviews, buyout, and turnover to Operations.
• Evaluate project opportunities to understand key drivers, risks, and competitive positioning.
• Partner with Preconstruction leadership to develop appropriate bid strategies.
• Balance competitive pricing with the need to protect project profitability.
• Ask questions early and engage the right resources to resolve scope, pricing, or constructability concerns.
• Help develop proposals that clearly communicate Hotel Rehabs' understanding of the project and value to the client.
• Contribute to bids that not only win work but set the project up for successful execution.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors across multiple markets.
• Expand subcontractor networks where coverage is limited.
• Communicate scopes and expectations clearly to trade partners.
• Evaluate subcontractor pricing, capabilities, historical performance, and overall fit.
• Proactively follow up with trade partners to improve bid participation and competitive coverage.
• Develop relationships that strengthen Hotel Rehabs' ability to compete across markets.
• Participate in owner meetings, scope reviews, and preconstruction discussions.
• Build credibility with clients through responsiveness, accuracy, and follow-through.
• Help position proposals competitively while protecting project profitability.
• Support client relationships throughout the pursuit and preconstruction process.
• Represent Hotel Rehabs professionally with owners, consultants, subcontractors, and industry partners.
• Partner closely with Project Management, Purchasing, Design, and Construction teams throughout the estimating process.
• Continue supporting projects after award through buyout, turnover, and preconstruction.
• Ensure Operations understands project scope, pricing assumptions, exclusions, risks, and commitments made during the estimating process.
• Participate in strong, organized project handoffs that set the Operations team up for success.
• Help improve estimating tools, cost databases, processes, and internal best practices.

Benefits

• Hybrid and remote options are available depending on experience and location.
• Preference is given to candidates located near our Chicago, Nashville, or Phoenix offices.
• Open to experienced candidates nationwide who have the background and ability to be successful working remotely.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree