Estimator

H. J. Russell & Company•Newton, MA

16d•$80,300 - $98,300•Onsite

About The Position

H.J. Russell & Company is seeking a driven Estimator (1–3 years’ experience) to develop accurate, competitive estimates and support hard-bid and CM-at-Risk pursuits. You’ll interpret drawings/specs, perform detailed quantity takeoffs, solicit and level trade partner proposals, and collaborate with operations to deliver complete, on-time bids.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field (Construction Management, Civil/Construction Engineering, Architecture, or similar).
1–3 years in estimating or closely related preconstruction role (internships/co-ops count).
Proficiency in DESTINI Estimator, BuildingConnected, On-Screen Takeoff, and Bluebeam; strong Excel skills (lookups, pivots).
Ability to read/interpret drawings and specs; produce accurate takeoffs; understand unit pricing, labor/equipment, and general conditions.
Clear communicator (written/oral), organized, collaborative, and deadline-driven with strong follow-through.
Passion, ambition, and a strong work ethic—ownership mindset, curiosity about cost drivers, and a commitment to accuracy and integrity.
Team-first attitude and professionalism with clients, designers, and trade partners.

Nice To Haves

Exposure to public hard-bid requirements, alternates/unit pricing, and form compliance.
Knowledge of local trade market pricing and subcontractor network.
Basic scheduling literacy (Milestone/MS Project/P6) and constructability awareness.

Responsibilities

Prepare conceptual, schematic, DD, and GMP/hard-bid estimates; build clear scope narratives and assumptions.
Perform detailed takeoffs across divisions; organize by WBS/CSI with documented productivity and waste factors.
Build bid lists, issue invitations through BuildingConnected, field RFI/clarifications, and obtain coverage.
Compare quotes, identify gaps/overlaps, and conduct scope reviews to ensure apples-to-apples pricing.
Propose cost-saving options, alternates, and constructability suggestions without compromising intent or quality.
Attend pre-bid meetings/site walks; track addenda; ensure full compliance with submission requirements.
Maintain cost histories and assemblies; produce estimate summaries, variances, and risk registers for leadership review.
Support buyout and turnover to project teams; coordinate with scheduling and operations on means/methods.