Senior Estimator

Edwards Construction Group•Arroyo Grande, CA

4h•$140,000 - $150,000

About The Position

The Senior Estimator plays a critical role in the early success of every project. You will be responsible for developing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates from conceptual budgeting through final bid submission. Working closely with Preconstruction, Operations, and Executive Leadership, you will help ensure every bid is complete, competitive, and aligned with project goals. This is not just a takeoff role, it is a strategic position that requires strong analytical thinking, sound judgment, and proactive collaboration across teams. You will lead preconstruction services for complex commercial construction projects delivered through progressive design-build, CMAR, and negotiated delivery methods, where the contractor is responsible for establishing and validating the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP). This role functions as both a technical estimator and a strategic project partner, collaborating with owners, designers, and internal operations teams to develop accurate budgets, manage risk, and guide projects from conceptual planning through final GMP. You will play a key role in winning work, shaping project scope, and ensuring financial success before construction begins.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
8+ years of estimating experience in commercial and/or public works construction with senior-level responsibility for complex projects
Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and cost structures
Experience performing quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, budget development, and producing accurate, competitive estimates under deadlines
Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contracts
Experience soliciting, evaluating, and leveling subcontractor and supplier bids
Experience supporting value engineering, cost optimization, and risk analysis
Experience with Progressive Design-Build, Lease-Leaseback, CM at Risk (CMAR), Negotiated / Relationship-Based Contracts, Early Contractor Involvement, and Multi-Phase GMP development
Understanding of project scheduling, sequencing, and site logistics as they relate to costs
Proficiency in estimating and construction software (e.g., Bluebeam, PlanSwift, Procore, Sage)
Familiarity with local codes, permitting, and regulatory requirements
Strong written and verbal communication for internal teams and external stakeholders
Analytical, detail-oriented, and proactive problem-solver
Self-motivated with a sense of ownership over projects
Collaborative team player who works effectively across multiple departments
Strong judgment and decision-making under pressure
Adaptable in a fast-paced construction environment
Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple bids and priorities
Integrity and professionalism when interacting with clients, vendors, and subcontractors
Clear and effective communicator

Responsibilities

You will lead estimating and cost planning efforts from concept through issued GMP, including conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates.
You will review construction documents to define and scope work accurately.
You will perform detailed quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and unit pricing for materials, labor, equipment, and general conditions.
You will prepare complete, competitive, and defendable estimates, proposals, and bid packages aligned with project scope and contract requirements.
You will coordinate all aspects of the estimating process, including bid management, documentation tracking, and pre-award negotiations.
You will solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier bids, maintaining qualified subcontractor/vendor lists and assessing qualifications and financial stability.
You will validate quantities, production rates, market pricing, and GMP assumptions, including risk, allowances, and contingency strategies.
You will facilitate progressive design-build pricing evolution and provide value analysis, constructability input, and cost guidance to the project team.
You will participate in owner, architect, and design meetings as the contractor’s cost advisor.
You will reconcile estimates with design teams and owner representatives and track design changes and budget impacts in real time.
You will prepare and present detailed estimate narratives, bid summaries, and scope analyses to support decision-making.
You will guide subcontractor buyout strategy, early trade partner involvement, and procurement planning for long-lead items and escalation risks.
You will support post-bid activities, including project buyout assistance and cost clarifications for Project Managers.
You will maintain and develop estimating databases, historical cost data, pricing resources, and trade rate references.
You will continuously improve estimating processes and workflows to increase accuracy and efficiency.