Estimator - Commercial Construction (Preconstruction)

AlphaHire•Richmond, VA

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Construction Estimator to prepare accurate, competitive bids for commercial building projects, including renovations, tenant improvements, interior build-outs, and ground-up construction. The role requires strong technical estimating skills, hands-on experience with quantity takeoffs and subcontractor pricing, and the ability to develop complete bid packages while managing multiple deadlines. The Estimator is directly involved throughout the estimating process, from initial drawing reviews and cost analysis through final bid submission and project handoff. The position also coordinates with project managers, field supervisors, designers, and trade partners to validate estimates and resolve discrepancies.

Requirements

At least 5 years of commercial construction estimating experience, preferably with a general contractor.
Experience estimating commercial renovations, tenant improvements, interior build-outs, and/or ground-up construction.
Strong understanding of construction costs, labor productivity, material pricing, and subcontractor costs.
Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, and MEP drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
Hands-on experience with quantity takeoffs, subcontractor bid solicitation, proposal leveling, and final estimate preparation.
Ability to identify scope omissions, pricing inconsistencies, and trade overlaps.
Proficiency with construction estimating software.
Strong analytical, organizational, and time-management skills, with excellent attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
Demonstrated ability to personally prepare estimates and complete bid submissions rather than solely oversee the estimating process.

Nice To Haves

Bluebeam Revu experience.

Responsibilities

Develop project budgets and detailed cost estimates for commercial construction projects.
Review architectural, structural, and MEP drawings, specifications, and contract documents to determine project scope and pricing requirements.
Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and calculate labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier bids, compare proposals, and identify scope gaps or pricing discrepancies.
Prepare complete bid packages with detailed cost breakdowns, assumptions, exclusions, and scope definitions.
Identify cost-saving opportunities, constructability concerns, scheduling constraints, and procurement risks during preconstruction.
Coordinate with project managers, field supervisors, designers, and trade partners to validate estimates and resolve discrepancies.
Monitor labor rates, material costs, subcontractor pricing, and market trends to maintain accurate and competitive estimates.
Participate in site visits, pre-bid meetings, and client discussions to clarify project requirements.
Maintain organized bid records, cost databases, and historical pricing information.
Transition awarded projects to the operations team, communicating approved budgets, scope details, and estimating assumptions.