Lead Estimator
About The Position
The Lead Estimator is responsible for overseeing the estimating function while preparing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for hurricane protection projects. Leads the planning, development, negotiation, and execution of project estimates while ensuring accuracy, profitability, and compliance with company standards. The Lead Estimator serves as the department's primary estimating resource and provides leadership, guidance, training, and support to estimators and other team members. This position works closely with Sales, Operations, Project Management, Production, and Executive Leadership to develop competitive bids, manage estimating processes, and support the successful execution of projects. The Lead Estimator is responsible for reviewing plans and specifications, developing pricing strategies, overseeing estimate accuracy, managing pre-bid activities, and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement within the estimating function. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional analytical, communication, organizational, and leadership skills, along with a strong understanding of construction estimating principles, fenestration products, and industry best practices.
Requirements
- Extensive experience as an estimator in the construction, fenestration, hurricane protection, or related building trades industry.
- Proven leadership skills with the ability to mentor, train, coach, and influence others.
- Exceptional time management, organizational, multitasking, and interpersonal skills.
- Strong management, analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation abilities.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with project teams, customers, vendors, subcontractors, and stakeholders.
- Excellent research, proposal writing, presentation, and communication skills.
- Extensive knowledge of construction estimating principles, building codes, industry standards, and best practices.
- Advanced computer proficiency and experience with ERP systems (NetSuite preferred), builder portals, manufacturer portals, and estimating software.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
- Ability to travel and conduct site visits as required.
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field; equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
- Minimum of five (5) years of estimating experience in the hurricane protection, fenestration, construction, or related building trades industry.
- Minimum of two (2) years of leadership, mentoring, training, or supervisory experience preferred.
- Demonstrated experience reviewing plans, specifications, takeoffs, bid packages, and construction documents.
- Advanced knowledge of estimating methodologies, pricing strategies, building codes, and industry best practices.
Nice To Haves
- Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
- Minimum of two (2) years of leadership, mentoring, training, or supervisory experience preferred.
Responsibilities
- Determine the total cost of materials, equipment, labor, permits, utilities, and other project-related expenses.
- Research project documentation and analyze plans, specifications, contracts, and project requirements.
- Oversee and prepare accurate estimates for planning, organizing, and scheduling project work.
- Manage pre-qualification packages and pre-bid submissions.
- Develop project budgets and estimates that support project goals, including labor allocations, material procurement, scheduling, and vendor selection.
- Ensure all bid documents, proposals, and budgets are completed and submitted prior to deadlines.
- Review and approve estimates, takeoffs, templates, and pricing prepared by other estimators to ensure accuracy and consistency.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for complex pricing, estimating, and bid-related matters.
- Regularly report estimating activities, project updates, and departmental performance to the Executive Team.
- Maintain communication with customers, builders, vendors, and subcontractors regarding project status, pricing, and scope requirements.
- Identify project risks and formulate contingency plans to minimize cost overruns and schedule impacts.
- Stay current on estimating software, building codes, industry trends, and best practices.
- Conduct site visits and field assessments as necessary.
- Collaborate with Operations, Sales, Project Management, Production, and Purchasing to ensure project success.
- Assist with contract review and project handoff to Operations following project award.
- Performs all other duties as assigned.
- Serve as the department's lead technical resource for all estimating activities.
- Provide leadership, mentorship, training, and support to estimators and other team members.
- Establish and maintain estimating procedures, templates, quality control measures, and best practices.
- Monitor estimating accuracy and identify opportunities for process improvement.
- Assist in developing pricing strategies and recommendations to support profitability and competitiveness.
- Collaborate with leadership to establish departmental goals, priorities, and performance expectations.
- Support recruiting, interviewing, onboarding, and training of estimating personnel.
- Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, continuous improvement, and attention to detail.
- Lead by example and promote a high standard of professionalism, customer service, and quality.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
