Lead Estimator

Job Title: Lead Estimator

Location: Homestead, PA

Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site

About the Job:

We are seeking an experienced Lead Estimator to oversee the complete estimating process for commercial construction projects. This role is responsible for preparing conceptual budgets, hard bid estimates, developing bid strategies, coordinating subcontractor pricing, and ensuring accurate cost estimates from project inception through bid submission. The ideal candidate has strong commercial estimating experience, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously.

Key Responsibilities:

Prepare conceptual, budgetary, and hard bid estimates for commercial construction projects.

Review and interpret blueprints, drawings, specifications, contracts, and scope documents.

Develop accurate cost estimates, proposals, project schedules, and bid packages.

Lead the entire bid process from initial planning through final submission.

Develop bid strategies and analyze project costs to maximize competitiveness.

Coordinate subcontractor solicitation and ensure adequate bid coverage.

Review subcontractor and vendor proposals for scope, pricing, completeness, and compliance.

Conduct site visits and attend pre-bid meetings when required.

Coordinate project turnover meetings with operations and project management teams.

Evaluate project duration, budgets, and overall construction costs prior to submission.

Maintain estimating databases and utilize computerized estimating systems.

Collaborate with Accounting, Operations, Purchasing, and other internal departments throughout the estimating process.

Supervise estimating support staff and provide guidance during bid preparation.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field; equivalent industry experience will also be considered.

Strong experience estimating commercial construction projects.

Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.

Experience managing multiple estimates simultaneously.

Strong knowledge of subcontractor procurement and bid evaluation.

Excellent analytical, mathematical, organizational, and communication skills.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Experience with Timberline (Sage Estimating) is preferred.

Must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Preferred Project Experience:

Commercial Buildings

Ground-Up Construction

Restaurants

Retail Centers

Office Buildings

Educational Facilities (Schools)

Automotive Dealerships

Multi-Family / Multi-Unit Residential Projects

Key Skills:

Commercial Construction Estimating

Cost Estimating & Budgeting

Bid Management

Quantity Takeoffs

Blueprint & Specification Review

Cost Analysis

Vendor & Subcontractor Management

Conceptual Estimating

Hard Bid Estimating

Project Scheduling

Scope Review

Value Engineering

Microsoft Office

Timberline (Preferred)

Time Management

Leadership & Team Supervision

Communication & Negotiation