Project Estimator & Designer

Position Summary

The Project Estimator and Designer is responsible for planning, managing and executing all construction and enhancement projects.

Structure

Full-time, exempt position. Reports to Operations Manager.

Salary range: $75,000 - $110,000/annual

Reporting Location: 4704 Raley Blvd., Sacramento, CA

Reporting Schedule: Monday - Friday

Functional Roles and Responsibilities

Cost Estimation

• Assess project requirements and scope to understand the materials, labor, and equipment needed
• Analyze costs associated with materials, labor, and overhead to determine overall project costs
• Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring they align with cost estimates and financial constraints
• Create detailed and accurate cost estimates for inclusion in project proposals

Client Consultation

• Collaborate with clients to determine their preferences, needs, and budget constraints
• Discuss the purpose of the outdoor space, whether it's for relaxation, entertainment, or specific activities
• Offer real time suggestions and recommendations for design and materials based on clients’ goals

Design Development

• Create detailed and innovative landscape designs based on client input and site analysis
• Incorporate elements such as plants, hardscapes, water features, and lighting to enhance the overall design
• Integrate elements like paths, patios, decks, and other non-plant features into the overall design
• Include requirements for irrigation rehabilitation or renovation based on plant and material types with thorough understanding of its application in a particular space
• Ensure that hardscape elements complement the natural surroundings and meet the client's functional needs
• Use rendering program to create realistic and accurate images that reflect the design intent

Project Management

• Develop and implement detailed plans of execution that include preparation time, demo, installation, clean-up, detail, final walk throughs, etc.
• Ensure Project Supervisor is on task by visiting project sites regularly and communicating hourly/daily with Supervisor to address questions, issues, etc.
• Create, manage, and execute change orders as necessary
• Communicate quickly and efficiently with Superintendent and Operations Manager regarding the timeline of the project including but not limited to: delays/changes in schedule, unforeseen circumstances, homeowner/client interactions, any issues with prepared solutions
• Conduct pre-, mid- and final project walkthroughs with client, Superintendent and Operations Manager as necessary

Plant Selection

• Choose appropriate plant species based on climate, soil conditions, and the desired aesthetic
• Consider factors like growth patterns, maintenance requirements, and seasonal changes
• Order plant and other materials through vendor partners and coordinate delivery to site

Documentation

• Prepare and review contracts, ensuring they reflect negotiated terms and conditions
• Generate and manage purchase orders for materials and services
• Maintain accurate records of transactions, contracts, and supplier information
• Collaborate with the bidding team to provide necessary cost documentation for competitive bids

Collaboration

• Work closely with project managers, engineers and other stakeholders to understand project requirements and constraints
• Communicate effectively with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure a smooth procurement process.

Cost Monitoring

• Monitor actual costs against estimated costs throughout the project lifecycle
• Analyze any variances between estimated and actual costs and take corrective actions as needed
• Stay informed about market trends, pricing, and new products to make informed procurement decisions
• Assess the capabilities and reliability of potential suppliers in the market

Client Relations

• Successfully always represents BellaVista
• Ability to respond properly to the client and follow-up to make sure their needs have been completed to their satisfaction
• Ability to recognize when they do not have the answer for the client and let them know they will find it out or get the Superintendent/Operations Manager involved
• Keep the Operations Manager aware of all client concerns and communication on job sites
• Maintain a positive, responsive, and flexible attitude to all clients
• Communicate design concepts effectively to clients, including the use of drawings, renderings, and other visual aids
• Adjust designs based on client feedback and preferences

Safety

• Maintain safe working conditions at all times including job site and crew’s operation
• Follow company procedures on discipline if any safety rules are broken
• Have no accidents due to not following the company safety rules
• Inspect designated job sites for unsafe working conditions and potential liabilities to BellaVista and our clients

Client Deliverable Development

• Landscape maintenance proposals
• Presentation decks
• Simple QuickBooks proposals
• Property service/operations maps
• Newsletters
• Renderings

Success Behaviors

• Has a positive attitude
• Takes initiative to improve performance
• Provides creative solutions
• Has proactive approach to their job, stays organized
• Team player

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of the job, the employee is required to:

• Regularly sit, type, and use the computer and mouse for prolonged periods
• Occasionally lift, push, pull, and/or move up to fifty (50) pounds
• Regularly operate a vehicle to travel to and from work locations
• Maintain a valid driver’s license

Metrics for Success

• Proper scheduling and completion of the scope of work while satisfying the customer expectations
• Client retention
• Enhancement sales generation
• Ensures regular profitability on projects
• Provides exemplary customer service through superior communication
• Fosters teamwork with all operations and administrative staff members

Qualifications

• Must have at least 3-5 years of related experience
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Prior experience with landscape construction is required
• Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, standards, and industry practices relating to Landscape Construction
• Must have a good understanding of modern business practices and procedures, elements of correct English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, punctuation, and basic mathematics
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Teams is required
• Knowledge of Google Sheets, Documents & Gmail is required
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to maintain effective working relationships with others is a must