Commercial Construction Estimator
Job Description
Job Title: Commercial Construction Estimator
Industry: Commercial Construction / General Contracting
Location: Spencer, Iowa (On-site)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Overview
A growing commercial general contractor is seeking a Commercial Construction Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates for commercial construction projects. This role is responsible for reviewing construction drawings and specifications, performing quantity takeoffs, coordinating with subcontractors and suppliers, and supporting the bidding process from project evaluation through proposal submission.
The ideal candidate has experience in commercial construction estimating, strong analytical skills, and the ability to manage multiple bids while meeting deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
Prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial construction projects.
Review architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings and project specifications.
Perform quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, and equipment.
Analyze bid documents to determine project scope and identify potential risks.
Solicit and evaluate pricing from subcontractors and material suppliers.
Prepare bid proposals and estimate summaries.
Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits as required.
Coordinate with project managers and operations during the estimating process.
Maintain organized estimating files and project documentation.
Track bid deadlines and ensure timely proposal submissions.
Stay current with construction methods, material pricing, and industry trends.
Support continuous improvement of estimating procedures and best practices.
Required Qualifications
Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architectural Technology, or a related field, or equivalent construction estimating experience.
Minimum 1 year of commercial construction estimating experience preferred.
Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
Experience preparing quantity takeoffs and cost estimates.
Knowledge of commercial construction methods, materials, and sequencing.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
Preferred Qualifications
Experience working for a commercial general contractor.
Exposure to design-build and plan-and-spec construction projects.
Experience coordinating with subcontractors and vendors.
Familiarity with construction estimating software and digital takeoff tools.
Ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
Preferred Project Experience
Experience estimating projects in one or more of the following sectors is a plus:
Commercial Office Buildings
Educational Facilities
Healthcare
Retail
Industrial
Municipal / Public Works
Mixed-Use Developments
Required Skills
Commercial Construction Estimating
Quantity Takeoffs
Blueprint Reading
Construction Cost Analysis
Bid Preparation
Scope Review
Subcontractor Coordination
Vendor Management
Material Pricing
Construction Documentation
Microsoft Excel
Time Management
Problem Solving
Communication
Work Environment
Full-time, on-site position.
Occasional travel to project sites and pre-bid meetings may be required.
Extended hours may be necessary during bid deadlines.
Candidate Profile
The successful candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple estimates in a fast-paced commercial construction environment. They possess strong analytical abilities, communicate effectively with internal teams and subcontractors, and consistently deliver accurate, competitive estimates while meeting project deadlines.
