Residential Construction Estimator

Caldwell Watson Real Estate Group, Inc. • Houston, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Caldwell Homes is seeking a detail-oriented Residential Construction Estimator to support our estimating and purchasing operations. This position plays an important role in developing accurate construction costs, reviewing plans and specifications, preparing quantity takeoffs, and evaluating trade partner and supplier bids. The Estimator will work closely with Purchasing, Construction, Design, Accounting, and Caldwell Homes’ trade partners to ensure that estimates are accurate, scopes are complete, and construction budgets reflect current plans, specifications, and market pricing. This is an onsite position at Caldwell Homes, with regular working hours Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Requirements

• One to five years of experience in residential construction estimating, purchasing, cost analysis, or a related field.
• Working knowledge and understanding of the BRIX System
• Ability to read and interpret architectural plans, engineering drawings, construction details, and specifications.
• Experience preparing quantity takeoffs, cost estimates, and bid comparisons.
• General understanding of residential construction methods, materials, sequencing, and trade scopes.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and other standard business applications.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively while taking ownership of assigned responsibilities.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, business, or a related field is preferred but not required.
• Production homebuilding experience and knowledge of the Houston-area construction market are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates from architectural plans, engineering documents, construction details, specifications, and design selections.
• Develop and maintain accurate estimates for materials, labor, trade scopes, plan options, and construction-related costs.
• Review estimates for completeness, accuracy, and consistency with Caldwell Homes’ construction standards.
• Assist with updating estimates when plans, specifications, selections, or market conditions change.
• Identify potential cost discrepancies, missing information, and opportunities for cost savings.
• Review architectural plans, engineering plans, construction documents, and specifications for accuracy and completeness.
• Identify conflicts, omissions, and inconsistencies that could affect construction costs, purchasing, scheduling, or field execution.
• Coordinate with internal departments to clarify plan details, product requirements, and construction scopes.
• Verify that estimating assumptions align with approved plans, specifications, and company standards.
• Support the review and pricing of plan revisions, options, and product changes.
• Solicit, organize, and evaluate bids from trade partners and suppliers.
• Prepare clear bid comparisons that identify differences in pricing, scope, materials, allowances, exclusions, and responsibilities.
• Communicate with trade partners and suppliers to clarify proposals and confirm complete scopes of work.
• Assist with maintaining current pricing and supporting documentation.
• Help evaluate pricing changes and their effect on individual homes, plans, communities, and overall construction budgets.
• Support negotiations by providing accurate cost information and market comparisons.
• Collaborate with Purchasing, Construction, Design, Accounting, and other departments to resolve estimating and cost-related questions.
• Maintain organized records of estimates, bids, pricing, plan reviews, and vendor communications.
• Provide timely and accurate information to support purchasing and construction decisions.
• Assist with special projects, cost studies, and other estimating or purchasing responsibilities as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
• Professional development and career-growth opportunities.
• A collaborative, entrepreneurial, and faith-based work environment.
• The opportunity to contribute to a respected homebuilding company committed to quality, service, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree