Construction Estimator - Wilmington

Job Description

Job Description

Project Estimator – Commercial Construction

10+ Years of Experience | Full‑Time | Owner + Design Team + PM Collaboration

A Project Estimator with a decade of commercial construction experience plays a central role in shaping project success long before work begins in the field. This position requires a detail‑driven builder who can produce accurate estimates, collaborate closely with owners and design teams, and support project management through every stage of preconstruction. The Estimator will work across a range of commercial project types and must be comfortable leading takeoffs, evaluating scopes, and communicating cost impacts clearly and confidently.

Role Overview

The Project Estimator is responsible for developing conceptual, schematic, and detailed estimates for commercial construction projects. This includes quantity takeoffs, subcontractor outreach, bid leveling, and cost analysis. The role requires strong communication with owners, architects, engineers, and internal project management teams to ensure alignment on scope, budget, and constructability. The Estimator also supports value engineering, risk identification, and the development of competitive proposals.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, and detailed estimates for commercial construction projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and cost analysis across all major CSI divisions.
• Coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, and internal project management teams throughout the preconstruction process.
• Lead subcontractor outreach, bid solicitation, bid leveling, and scope reviews.
• Develop and maintain historical cost data, unit pricing, and market benchmarks.
• Review drawings, specifications, and addenda for accuracy, completeness, and potential risks.
• Support value engineering efforts to align project scope with client budgets.
• Prepare proposals, cost models, and estimate summaries for internal and client presentations.
• Assist with preconstruction schedules, milestone planning, and design‑phase coordination.
• Ensure a smooth transition from estimating to project management at award.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of commercial construction estimating experience with a general contractor.
• Strong understanding of commercial building systems, construction sequencing, and market pricing.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, and technical documents with precision.
• Proficiency with estimating software (OST, Bluebeam, Sage/Timberline, or similar).
• Strong communication, organization, and client‑facing skills.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred.

Success Indicators

• Accurate, well‑supported estimates that reflect current market conditions.
• Strong relationships with owners, design teams, and subcontractors.
• Clear communication that reduces design‑phase surprises and accelerates decision‑making.
• Competitive proposals that position the GC for successful project awards.
• A smooth, well‑documented handoff to project management with minimal scope gaps.