Senior Estimador

Blue View Builder•San Diego, CA

17d•$97,000 - $170,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Estimator prepares accurate, detailed cost estimates for residential construction projects, including custom homes, modular or prefab homes, ADUs, additions, and small multifamily projects. The role involves analyzing plans and specifications, performing quantity takeoffs, pricing materials, labor, and subcontractor work, identifying risks and value-engineering opportunities, and supporting competitive proposals that help secure profitable work. The Estimator works with sales, design, project management, purchasing, and production teams to align estimates with construction methods, particularly modular and factory-built processes. The position is hybrid or office-based with job-site visits as needed and is full-time and exempt.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience as an estimator in full-scope residential construction, remodeling, modular or prefab construction, or general contracting.
Strong knowledge of residential construction methods, materials, sequencing, and California building practices.
Proficiency with estimating and takeoff software and Microsoft Excel.
Ability to read and accurately interpret complex drawings and specifications.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Valid driver's license and ability to visit job sites as needed.

Nice To Haves

Modular construction experience.
Experience with construction management platforms such as Procore, Buildertrend, or CoConstruct.
Client-facing experience.
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
Experience with modular, manufactured, or off-site construction.
Knowledge of sustainable or green building practices and their cost implications.
Local San Diego subcontractor and supplier relationships.

Responsibilities

Review architectural drawings, blueprints, specifications, and other project documents to understand project scope.
Conduct virtual or physical site visits to assess conditions, measure quantities, and identify challenges.
Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for materials, labor, equipment, and related costs using digital estimating tools.
Develop comprehensive cost estimates covering materials, labor productivity, subcontractor bids, general conditions, overhead, contingency, and profit.
Solicit, evaluate, and level supplier quotes, and maintain vendor relationships, especially with local San Diego and Southern California networks.
Identify cost-saving opportunities, value-engineering options, potential risks, and scope gaps.
Collaborate with sales, design, project management, purchasing, and production teams to align estimates with build methods, particularly modular and factory-built processes.
Prepare and present proposals and bid packages to clients or internal leadership.
Track historical costs, update pricing databases, and support post-bid analysis and handoff to operations.
Ensure estimates comply with California building codes, Title 24, local permitting requirements, and company standards.
Support continuous improvement of estimating processes, templates, and software.