Estimator - Commercial Construction (Preconstruction)

AlphaX•Richmond, VA

11h

About The Position

We’re seeking a hands-on 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 involves developing budgets and detailed estimates, performing quantity takeoffs, evaluating subcontractor and supplier bids, and preparing complete bid submissions. The estimator also supports preconstruction planning by identifying cost-saving opportunities, constructability issues, scheduling constraints, and procurement risks. The position requires personally preparing estimates and completing bid submissions, rather than solely overseeing the estimating process.

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, materials, and subcontractor pricing.
Ability to 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.
Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and time management.
Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
Proven ability to personally prepare estimates and complete bid submissions, rather than solely overseeing the estimating process.

Nice To Haves

Bluebeam Revu experience.

Responsibilities

Develop project budgets and detailed estimates for commercial construction projects.
Review architectural, structural, and MEP drawings to determine project scope, quantities, and pricing.
Perform 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 submissions with detailed cost breakdowns, assumptions, exclusions, and scope definitions.
Identify cost-saving opportunities, constructability issues, scheduling constraints, and procurement risks during preconstruction.
Collaborate 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 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 budgets, scope details, and estimating assumptions.