Senior Estimator - Data Center Construction

The Weitz Company / Contrack Watts, Inc.•Des Moines, IA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Weitz Company is seeking a Senior Estimator to join our Mission Critical team in Des Moines, IA. The Senior Estimator is responsible for all preconstruction cost control functions for construction projects including complete estimates, cost analysis, comparisons, assisting with feasibility studies, and historical cost reports. This individual is capable of performing cost control functions on multiple projects of varying complexity simultaneously. Additionally, this role may take the lead role in preconstruction efforts. Typically, the Senior Estimator reports to the Chief Estimator and may have estimators reporting directly to him/her on assigned project(s). The Weitz Company has been Building a Better Way since 1855. We are a full-service construction company, general contractor, design-builder, and construction manager with office locations throughout the United States. We believe our employees to be our most valuable asset, and we are committed to growing a diverse and inclusive culture that inspires, motivates, and continuously improves.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree from an accredited degree program in Engineering, Construction Management, Building Construction, or similar
Seven years of estimating responsibility is required for this position. Experience with formal presentations and supervising staff is helpful
This position requires excellent conceptual estimating skills and the ability to identify items required for complete systems, even if not delineated on construction documents
The ability to mentally schedule and construct a building from drawings is essential
Excellent computer skills are important, as is the ability to quickly learn, articulate, and apply new applications as the industry grows and changes
Must have the ability to communicate in a professional and courteous manner with clients, architects, subcontractors, suppliers, and project teams
Organization, quick creative thinking, and the ability to balance and prioritize projects with impending deadlines are essential
The ideal candidate will be a great communicator with a strong track record of providing accurate estimating services
A qualified candidate will be able to compare and analyze various systems and related cost impacts, as well as possess solid leadership skills and the ability to coach direct reports
Ability to read, understand, and interpret contract documents, drawings, specifications, scopes of work, and project schedules
Extensive knowledge of estimating documents and the ability to provide accurate qualitative and quantitative analysis of documents
Conceptual ability, able to work with minimal information and quickly develop an understanding of owner/architect requirements
Project management of competing demands and meeting established deadlines
Proficient in basic computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook
Ability to learn specific job-related software upon hire

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, or similar quantity takeoff software is a plus

Responsibilities

Review all estimates for accuracy, detail, and expectations
Review project plans, requirements, and specifications to develop a comprehensive understanding of the project and develop the scope of work, labor, and equipment costs
Prepare quantity takeoffs and pricing of scope either through self-perform production-based estimates or unit price estimating
Contact local building trades, subcontractors, suppliers, government offices, etc., to understand and verify local market conditions, trade practices, and costs
Analyze manpower and equipment requirements for specific self-perform operations
Visit project sites to evaluate existing conditions, identify and capture scope not included in design documents
Prepare quantity surveys and unit pricing sheets for subcontractors’ completion and submission of unit price data
Prepare bid analysis scope sheets and review subcontractor cost proposals to ensure bid proposals are complete
Prepare and enter estimate data in WinEst, including estimate breakdowns and alternates
Prepare trade partner bid proposal forms and bid recording sheets for assigned trades, evaluate trade partner input for scope inclusion, identify scope gaps and overlaps, and coordinate with other staff managing trades
Understand the impact of general conditions and contract language; review with the project team
Coordinate building systems and schedules with Operations to plan and budget for safety on each project
Utilize conceptual estimating skills and identify items required for complete systems, even if not outlined on construction documents
Make decisions in a timely manner; understand when to involve upper management in decisions; assess the level of risk and consequences associated
Understand the clients’ needs to manage the process efficiently, ensure timely completion, understand local logistics/subcontractor and supplier market, and how BIM/LEED/LEAN can be best utilized
Prioritize safety and communicate safety requirements to the team
Assist with certain post-bid buyouts
Initiate and participate in meet-and-greet presentations with subcontractors and suppliers