Estimator

Position Overview

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We are seeking an experienced Residential Estimator to join our growing team. This individual will play a critical role in the preconstruction process by developing accurate, comprehensive cost estimates for residential construction projects. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly analytical, and possesses a strong understanding of residential construction methods, building materials, and current market pricing.

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Working collaboratively with design, sales, purchasing, and construction teams, the Residential Estimator will help ensure projects are financially sound, competitively priced, and positioned for successful execution from concept through completion.

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Essential Responsibilities

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• Develop complete and accurate construction estimates from architectural plans, engineering documents, specifications, and design selections.
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• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted scopes of work.
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• Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate pricing from subcontractors and suppliers to ensure competitive and complete bids.
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• Analyze plans and specifications to identify inconsistencies, omissions, constructability concerns, and potential cost impacts.
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• Maintain current pricing databases and historical cost information to improve estimating accuracy.
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• Prepare conceptual budgets, preliminary estimates, and final construction budgets for a variety of residential projects.
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• Collaborate with internal departments throughout the preconstruction process to ensure project scope, design intent, and budgets remain aligned.
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• Identify value engineering opportunities that improve efficiency while maintaining quality and homeowner expectations.
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• Assist with project handoff meetings by communicating estimate assumptions, inclusions, exclusions, and budget considerations to the construction team.
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• Monitor market trends affecting labor and material costs and recommend adjustments to estimating standards as needed.
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• Support continuous improvement initiatives by refining estimating processes, templates, and reporting tools.
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Qualifications

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• Minimum of 3 years of residential estimating or related construction experience.
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• Strong understanding of residential construction practices, building systems, and sequencing.
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• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings.
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• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and construction estimating software.
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• Strong mathematical aptitude with exceptional attention to detail.
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• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects simultaneously.
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• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
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• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across multiple departments.
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Preferred Qualifications

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• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
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• Experience estimating custom homes, semi-custom homes, or production residential construction.
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• Knowledge of purchasing, budgeting, scheduling, and residential permitting processes.
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• Familiarity with ERP systems, project management software, or residential estimating platforms.
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Core Competencies

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• Residential construction expertise
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• Cost estimating and budget development
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• Quantity takeoffs
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• Blueprint and specification interpretation
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• Financial and analytical skills
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• Vendor and subcontractor coordination
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• Problem-solving and critical thinking
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• Attention to detail
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• Communication and collaboration
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• Organization and project management
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Work Environment

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This position is primarily office-based with occasional visits to residential construction sites, supplier locations, and project meetings. The role requires balancing multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy, professionalism, and accountability.