Junior Estimator

Compu Dynamics•Chantilly, VA

4d•$65,000 - $85,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Junior Estimator will support the preparation of accurate and competitive cost estimates for MEP, with focus of electrical and low voltage projects. This role requires a general understanding of the preconstruction and bidding process. The successful candidate will collaborate with the senior estimators, project managers, clients, and subcontractors to ensure estimates meet project requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Applied Science and/or equivalent education and experience.
0-2 years of estimating experience in mission-critical, data center, or large-scale construction.
Familiarity with estimation software and tools such as Bluebeam, Procore, and Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

1+ year of MEP Estimating Experience.
Commercial general contractor/construction experience.

Responsibilities

Reviews assigned drawings and specs with supervision, highlights sections relevant to scope and flags questions for Senior review.
Reviews RFP documents with guidance; drafts RFIs for Senior review before issuance.
Independently documents all assumptions, clarifications, and exclusions for every proposal; ensures nothing is implied.
Reviews standard contract language: identifies terms that affect cost risk and raises concerns for Senior review.
Attends site visits as directed; documents field observations with notes and photos and shares findings with the estimating team.
Completes assigned sections of cost estimates under direct supervision, including quantity takeoffs, unit pricing research, and cost entry.
Learns to identify and flag safety-related line items (PPE, site safety plans, OSHA requirements) to the Senior Estimator.
Builds BOMs for assigned scopes with guidance from senior staff; submits to Senior Estimator for review before distribution.
Researches material and labor costs for assigned line items using vendor contacts, published price lists, and supervisor guidance.
Organizes and distributes subcontractor bid packages as directed; contacts vendors to request quotes; tracks receipt of responses and follows up on outstanding pricing.
Compiles supporting documentation and organizes estimate files as directed.
Follows established checklists and review processes, flags discrepancies or missing items to the Senior Estimator before submission.
Organizes and files estimate documentation, so it is accessible and clearly labeled for handoff; assists with transition tasks as directed.
Flags scope gaps, missing information, and potential cost risks to the Senior Estimator during document review and estimate preparation.
Documents identified risks in the estimate risk log as directed.
Reviews assigned documents for compliance items — spec sections, required submittmits, and drawing notes — with guidance from senior staff.
Attends post-award review meetings; records estimate-vs-actual variances and key takeaways for personal development.
Learns and uses core estimating tools (Bluebeam, Procore, Excel) for assigned takeoffs and document review under supervision; develops basic familiarity with BIM concepts.
Organizes project files in Procore and Microsoft SharePoint using accurate naming conventions and folder structure as directed.
Updates the estimating tracker daily with current bid status, due dates, and assigned tasks.
Focuses on assigned scope tasks; gains exposure to bid pursuit criteria by observing senior staff discussions.
Supports pursuit efforts by preparing scope exhibits, assembling estimate data, and organizing documentation as directed.
Develops awareness of industry pricing through assigned research tasks, reports findings to Senior Estimator for use in active estimates.
Communicates with partners and vendors professionally; responds to routine requests and questions with accuracy and courtesy.
Attends all assigned meetings — pre-bid, post-bid, preconstruction, and bid review — as directed.
Takes organized notes, prepares any assigned supporting data in advance, and distributes meeting summaries to the estimating team.
No supervisory responsibilities; focuses on developing personal skills and completing assigned work.
Receives coaching and feedback from senior staff; applies guidance to improve work quality; contributes positively to team environment.
Completes assigned tasks on time; communicates proactively if capacity or scheduling conflicts arise.
Is punctual, prepared, and respectful in all interactions with teammates, clients, and vendors.
Completes assigned work accurately and on time; looks for opportunities to do more than the minimum and asks for additional responsibility.
Listens actively and treats every teammate, client, and vendor with courtesy and professionalism regardless of role or circumstance.
Is honest about the status and accuracy of work; owns mistakes and asks for help when uncertain rather than guessing.
Follows all safety protocols on site visits and in the office; immediately reports hazards or unsafe conditions to a supervisor.