Senior Estimator

Senior Estimator

BAS Walls & Ceilings LLC

Job Description Summary:

BAS Walls & Ceilings LLC is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Estimator to join our Commercial Department. As a key member of the team, this role is essential to ensuring the accuracy and competitiveness of cost forecasts and bids for both small and large-scale residential and commercial construction projects. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced professional to take a leading role in estimating and contribute directly to the growth and success of the company.

Accountability:

Reporting to the Vice President (VP), the Senior Estimator will own estimating responsibilities for a wide range of residential and commercial projects. This position requires both strategic vision and tactical expertise, driving success in bids, cost management, and scope definition. The Senior Estimator will collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, subcontractors, and vendors to provide comprehensive and competitive estimates.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Accurate Cost Forecasting & Estimating:

• Develop accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for diverse projects, ensuring all costs (materials, labor, and subcontractor pricing) are factored in.
• Prepare detailed budgets, cost forecasting, and refine estimates based on historical data to ensure cost control across the project lifecycle.
• Must have specific experience in all forms of estimating, including conceptual, detailed, unit price, and trades such as drywall, metal framing, painting, and other relevant trades.

1. Bid Preparation & Vendor Coordination:

• Lead the preparation and submission of competitive bid packages, working with vendors and subcontractors to obtain the best prices.
• Interpret and ensure compliance with all contract requirements, ensuring that bids are submitted on time and with complete information.

1. Project Review & Coordination:

• Work closely with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to review project scope and costs.
• Conduct detailed analysis of project plans, specifications, and site conditions, incorporating feedback from field teams to refine estimates.

1. Vendor & Subcontractor Analysis:

• Evaluate bids from subcontractors and suppliers, building long-term relationships to ensure consistent and cost-effective sourcing.
• Use market knowledge to identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising on quality or timeline.

1. Cost Reporting & Financial Management:

• Provide cost summaries, detailed reports, and post-bid analysis for management approval.
• Monitor project budgets throughout the project lifecycle, adjusting for scope changes or unforeseen costs.

1. Continuous Improvement & Market Knowledge:

• Stay up-to-date with market trends, material prices, labor rates, and best practices in construction estimating.
• Implement process improvements based on historical feedback to increase accuracy and efficiency in estimates.

1. Estimating Software & Technology Management:

• Utilize and manage estimating software tools such as Planswift, Sage 100, and other project management technologies to ensure accuracy in cost tracking and take-offs.
• Proficient in Microsoft Teams for communication and collaboration within the team.

1. Problem Resolution & Customer Focus:

• Proactively resolve project issues, back-charges, and concerns from both the field and clients, ensuring smooth project execution.
• Maintain strong, ongoing relationships with internal teams and key stakeholders to enhance overall customer satisfaction.

1. Time Management & Deadline Compliance:

• Prioritize and manage multiple projects efficiently to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment, ensuring timely bid submissions and project completions.

1. Policy Compliance & Business Development:

• Adhere to company policies, ensuring that goals align with overall company strategy.
• Work with the sales team to identify new project opportunities and help guide pursuit targets.

Position Requirements:

• Experience:
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in estimating for both small and large-scale residential and commercial construction projects.
• Prior experience estimating projects with a minimum scope of work of $1 million in size (not total project cost, but specific scopes of work).
• Proven experience estimating all types of trades including drywall, metal framing, painting, and Division 9.
• Education:
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or a related field, or equivalent experience in estimating.
• Technical Skills:
• Proficiency in estimating software such as Planswift, Sage 100, and RS Means.
• Strong Excel skills, particularly for material and labor take-offs.
• Working knowledge of project management tools such as Microsoft Teams for team communication and collaboration.
• Industry Knowledge:
• Strong understanding of construction materials, methods, systems, and equipment.
• Knowledge of building codes and construction industry standards.
• Ability to interpret and apply contract law and project accounting.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills:
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, project managers, engineers, vendors, and subcontractors.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and subcontractors.
• Strong negotiation skills for managing vendor quotes and pricing agreements.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills:
• Ability to analyze complex plans and specifications, identify discrepancies, and develop accurate cost estimates.
• Proven ability to identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality and scope requirements.
• Self-Motivation & Time Management:
• A self-starter with a strong sense of urgency and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to prioritize and manage tasks effectively to ensure timely project completions and bid submissions.
• Leadership & Team Collaboration:
• Ability to mentor and guide junior estimators, while collaborating with a cross-functional team.
• Ability to lead estimating efforts for both small and large projects.
• Certifications:
• Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or similar industry certifications are highly preferred.
• Language Skills:
• Spanish proficiency is a plus.

Compensation:

Salary: $80,000 - $85,000 annually, with a 90-day review for a possible salary increase based on performance.