Estimator

Baker Construction•New York, NY

About The Position

The Estimator prepares time, cost, and labor estimates for assigned projects using specialized methodologies, techniques, principles, and processes. The role includes following up with clients to help address obstacles to winning contracts and providing ongoing cost-estimate support to operations for awarded contracts. The Estimator identifies and quantifies construction elements, develops estimates and proposals, evaluates vendors and suppliers, coordinates bid and contract information, and supports the transition from estimating to project execution. The position also tracks bids and market outcomes, maintains client relationships, and works with project teams on schedules, pricing changes, and submittal approvals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in construction management, accounting, or a related field from an accredited college or university and three years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Proficiency with estimating software such as Timberline, UScost, or WinEst.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business documents, technical procedures, and government regulations.
Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedures.
Ability to present information effectively and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
Good listening skills.
Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and apply fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to calculate area and volume.
Ability to interface with clients and coworkers.
Ability to define problems, collect information, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
Ability to interpret written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule-based instructions.
Ability to factor safety and OSHA requirements into estimates.

Responsibilities

Identify and quantify construction elements and enter quantities into the appropriate pricing software.
Provide initial data for entry into Commence software and provide applicable specifications to the Contracts Department to identify insurance requirements.
Send new contracts for corporate review.
Identify, contact, and build relationships with vendors and suppliers; assess their capabilities, scope their offerings, determine best value and project continuity, and seek favorable pricing commitments.
Complete estimates by assembling quantities in the required pricing format, creating a baseline job duration, identifying special equipment, and applying best-value vendors and subcontractors.
Identify the bidding party and prepare bid forms, proposal letters, and qualifications.
Research construction history and methods related to job elements, productivity, value enhancement, value engineering, and alternative constructability.
Include Standard Conditions in proposals and seek appropriate payment and retention language.
Package and send proposals on time and review them with Operations for productivity, manpower, and related considerations.
Personally follow up with clients to confirm bid receipt, identify obstacles to closing, and develop relationships for current and future projects.
Collect information on lost jobs to monitor competition and the market, provide bid information to Marketing for Commence updates, and track projects until award.
Contact the Chief Estimator or Estimating Manager when a contract is awarded.
Arrange and support the transition to the Project Manager by preparing pricing, quotes, proposal information, a rough job schedule, cash-flow and man-hour requirements, and transition meeting details.
Communicate vendor and subcontractor qualifications and commitments, and provide the Project Manager and operations support with an overview of the job and proposal.
Communicate the General Contractor’s or owner’s schedule and needs to field supervision and review potential operational alternatives.
Price changes within required timeframes and assist the project team in obtaining submittal approvals within 60 days.
Perform duties safely and account for safety and OSHA requirements in estimates.