Estimator

LG Group•Chicago, IL

41d•Onsite

About The Position

LG Builders is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our growing Preconstruction team. This individual will be responsible for developing accurate project budgets and cost estimates throughout the preconstruction lifecycle while partnering closely with clients, architects, consultants, subcontractors, vendors, and internal project teams. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys building relationships across the construction industry, and has a strong understanding of the Chicago construction market. The successful candidate will bring a combination of technical estimating expertise, commercial awareness, and an established network of subcontractor and trade partner relationships.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
5-10 years of estimating, preconstruction, or commercial construction experience.
Experience working for a general contractor, construction manager, or design-build organization.
Strong understanding of construction means and methods, project sequencing, and cost drivers.
Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
Experience preparing conceptual budgets, detailed estimates, quantity takeoffs, and bid packages.
Strong knowledge of the Chicago construction market and local subcontractor community.
Existing relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and trade partners.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Bluebeam.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience estimating multifamily, mixed-use, hospitality, retail, commercial, residential, or high-rise projects.
Experience working with both union and non-union subcontractors and labor environments.
Experience with Procore, Sage, or similar estimating and construction management software.
Design-build, negotiated, or construction management project delivery experience.
Experience presenting estimates and budgets to clients and project stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates.
Develop project budgets and cost plans throughout the preconstruction process.
Perform quantity takeoffs and detailed pricing analyses.
Identify project risks, constructability concerns, and cost-saving opportunities.
Support feasibility studies and early project planning efforts.
Develop value engineering recommendations that maintain project quality and design intent.
Independently manage estimates from project pursuit through final pricing and turnover.
Develop comprehensive and competitive construction cost estimates.
Prepare bid packages and manage subcontractor solicitation efforts.
Analyze and level subcontractor and vendor proposals.
Conduct scope reviews and negotiate pricing, qualifications, and scope coverage.
Support proposal development and project pursuit activities.
Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors throughout the Chicago market.
Leverage local market knowledge to obtain competitive pricing and valuable industry insights.
Evaluate subcontractor capabilities, availability, and project fit.
Expand and strengthen LG Builders' network of trade partners.
Partner closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, Business Development, and Operations teams.
Participate in design reviews, scope meetings, and budget discussions.
Communicate estimating assumptions, risks, and recommendations to project stakeholders.
Support successful project turnover from preconstruction to operations.