Landscape Estimator

Position description: Landscape Estimator (for irrigation installation, all phases of residential landscape installation or residential enhancements) must be detail-oriented and able to communicate effectively with customers and company staff via telephone and in writing and using all electronic tools/software/devices. 

Reports to: The Estimator directly reports to the Director of Operations

Job Type: Full-time

A. Skill set: The Estimator must possess the following skill set:

a. Blueprint & Plan Reading – Ability to interpret architectural and landscape plans, specifications, and contract documents.

b. Takeoff & Quantity Surveying – Proficiency in measuring materials, labor, and time requirements using digital takeoff tools

c. Subcontractor & Supplier Coordination – Ability to source, vet, and negotiate with subcontractors and suppliers.

d. Proposal Package Preparation – Experience in preparing detailed bid proposals, including scope, exclusions, and terms

e. Cost Analysis & Budgeting – Ability to forecast costs accurately and work within budget constraints.

f. Risk Assessment – Identifying cost risks, potential overruns, and mitigation strategies.

g. Value Engineering – Finding cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.

h. Team Leadership & Mentorship – Ability to guide junior estimators, collaborate with project managers, and align with executive goals.

i. Negotiation & Vendor Relations – Strong skills in negotiating contracts and pricing with vendors and clients.

j. Communication & Presentation – Ability to clearly present cost breakdowns and justifications to clients and stakeholders.

k. Attention to Detail – Accuracy in cost calculations, contract review, and bid documentation.

l. Problem-Solving & Decision-Making – Handling unexpected changes, client requests, and project challenges.

m. Excellent communication Skill

n. Strong Math Skills required.

o. You must have strong time management skills, meet deadlines and pay attention to the details.

p. Able to comprehend and implement estimating software.

q. Possess excellent oral and written communications skills.

r. Writes, maintains, and updates SOPs for his/her job.

s. Proficient in email, use of CRM software, MS Suite.

t. Proficient in typing and capable of typing 45 WPM.

u. Able to create an atmosphere of cooperation and professionalism.

v. Eager to learn company systems.

w. Always be eager to support and help other team members.

x. Always display a positive attitude and demeanor, be pleasant to work with.

y. Able to communicate in a professional and courteous manner with customers and company staff.

z. Always be a team player, be positive, cheerful, friendly, and helpful.

Educational requirements

a. Has at least five years of estimating experience in related field (irrigation installation, residential installation, residential enhancements).

b. Has a minimum of an associates of arts (AA) degree

4. Responsibilities:

a. Thoroughly understand and comply with company policies, procedures, and SOPs (standard operating procedures) for the Chief Estimator position.

b. Maintain your electronic schedule for the entire team.

c. Analyzing requirement documents, blueprints and project plans to gain a thorough understanding of the project

d. Ensures the maintenance and updating daily for the Bid Board (manual or electronic) for all divisions.

e. Coordinates with Operations and office admin. and prepares the Monthly Audit Data (M.A.D.) report and submits to GM and/or Owner.

f. Prepares the estimating budget for all divisions and coordinates with respective personnel and controller every year.

g. Ensure that labor burden, overtime factor, and sales tax percentages are accurate for all divisions.

h. Ensures that general and administrative (G&A) overhead recovery is accurate for all divisions.

i. Ensures all bidding assemblies and production rates are accurate for all divisions.

j. Establishes estimating procedures and standards for all divisions.

k. Ensure all material and equipment costs are updated throughout the year.

l. Analyzes and supervises all bids/proposals prior to submission to GM and/or customer.

m. Establishes parameters for analyzing and reviewing all bids/proposals.

n. Ensures the proper training of all estimating personnel.

o. Ensures job costing is done by the office admin for all bids and work-in-process (WIP).

p. Ensures the accurate filing of all paperwork and maintains proper security for same.

q. Ensures the maintenance of all contract folders.

r. Communicate professionally and courteously to all personnel inside and outside of the company.

s. Maintains a teachable attitude and is eager to learn company procedures.

t. Communicates both in writing and verbally with customers regarding the status of all proposals and regarding any problems, always proactively.

u. Proactively ensure customers are notified of the upcoming schedule and any changes thereto.

v. Continuing education requirement: minimum of 20 hours per year.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Compensation Package:

• Performance bonus

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Landscape Construction estimating: 5 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Escondido, CA 92029 (Required)

Work Location: In person (Required)