Estimator

W.E. O'Neil Construction•Chicago, IL

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Estimator supports multiple preconstruction efforts and serves as the lead estimator on specific bid efforts. The role develops and analyzes construction estimates, coordinates subcontractor input, reviews proposals and scopes, identifies cost implications and risks, and contributes to proposals and client-facing presentations. The Estimator also works with project managers and subcontractors to build relationships and understand project financial status, while supporting effective estimating processes and professional growth toward a Senior Estimator role. The position requires knowledge of construction methods, schedules, procurement, estimating, bid-day organization, cost reporting, insurance, contracts, and subcontract administration. It also involves using company software and systems, preparing budgets and estimates, researching pricing, identifying constructability and cost-saving opportunities, and communicating clearly with internal teams, subcontractors, and owners. The role regularly works in a W.E. O’Neil regional office and may occasionally visit construction sites. Site visits may involve construction-related hazards and physical activities such as climbing ladders and using personnel hoists.

Requirements

Four-year degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or equivalent experience in a related field.
At least 2 years of relevant professional experience in the estimating profession working with a subcontractor or general contractor.
Proficiency in basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel, and ability to use PowerPoint adequately.
Proficiency in Outlook, including managing calendars, address books, tasks, and email.
Ability to navigate and manage files and folders in cloud-based platforms such as Box.com and Dropbox.
Experience or familiarity with OST, WebEx, Skype for Business, BidMail, BIM 360 Glue, Bluebeam Revu, and PlanGrid.
Basic understanding of scheduling and CMiC applications.
Basic understanding of construction administration processes, including construction documents, schedules, RFIs, submittals, and material procurement.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Basic time-management and organizational skills.
Completion of an OSHA 30-Hour Safety Course.
First Aid and CPR certification.
Ability to perform the physical activities required for the role, including using construction personnel hoists, climbing ladders, navigating work areas under construction, and standing throughout the workday when needed.
Ability to meet the job’s vision, hand-use, sitting, speaking, hearing, and standing requirements; reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Nice To Haves

Desire and willingness to progress to the Senior Estimator role and its responsibilities.
Experience or exposure to meetings involving deal closing, owner needs, competitor analysis, current market conditions, and W.E. O’Neil’s project strengths.

Responsibilities

Support multiple preconstruction efforts and lead estimating on specific bid efforts.
Interpret CPM schedules in relation to procurement, lead times, activity durations, and the critical path.
Evaluate construction methods, building logistics, constructability issues, and value-analysis opportunities.
Organize bid-day activities and incorporate subcontractor clarifications and qualifications into estimates.
Develop subcontractor scopes from plans and specifications; analyze subcontractor proposals, scope differences, exclusions, and cost implications.
Develop subcontractor relationships and select appropriate subcontractors for projects.
Prepare construction-document-phase estimates using subcontractor input, historical data, and allowances for missing information.
Track, understand, and explain cost differences between progress estimates; research unit pricing and quantify materials.
Anticipate basic scope and account for scope not shown on conceptual plans; understand general conditions, overhead, fees, and contingency.
Use estimates and project documents to identify cost-saving ideas and prepare spreadsheets and budgets using historical data and current market conditions.
Use lessons learned to improve future estimates and manage subcontractor risks, exclusions, insurance costs, and related estimate inputs.
Understand cost implications of owner contracts, company master subcontract agreements, work orders, and associated exhibits; communicate scopes and address scope gaps.
Create proposals with guidance and assist with presentations and proposal reviews in response to RFPs.
Work efficiently, manage competing priorities, establish plans, and develop effective systems and processes.
Communicate effectively in writing and presentations, listen actively, and incorporate feedback and ongoing learning.
Engage project managers to understand project financial status and cultivate new and existing subcontractor relationships.
Participate in subcontractor industry events and represent W.E. O’Neil in presentations, proposal reviews, and deal-closing meetings as appropriate.
Collaborate with and support team members, including fostering teamwork, coaching and developing others, coordinating delegated work, and helping resolve conflicts.
Use company software and systems, including estimating, document, communication, and project-management applications.
Visit construction sites as needed and perform required activities in construction work areas.