Director of Estimating

Job Summary

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Director of Estimating to lead our estimating department and oversee all cost estimating activities from conceptual budgeting through final bid submission. This senior leadership position will drive accurate, competitive, and profitable estimates for [large-scale/complex] construction projects, while managing a high-performing team of estimators. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in construction cost analysis, strong leadership skills, and a proven track record of winning bids and delivering projects within budget.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the estimating function, developing and implementing best-in-class processes, standards, templates, and tools to ensure consistent, accurate, and timely estimates.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed cost estimates at various stages (conceptual, schematic, design development, GMP, hard-bid), including quantity takeoffs, labor, material, equipment, subcontractor pricing, general conditions, and overhead/profit analysis.
• Lead and mentor a team of estimators, senior estimators, and support staff handling recruitment, training, performance management, and professional development.
• Collaborate closely with preconstruction, operations, project management, business development, and executive teams to align estimates with project goals, risk profiles, value engineering opportunities, and client expectations.
• Conduct thorough bid reviews, risk assessments, and contingency evaluations to identify potential cost drivers, market fluctuations, and mitigation strategies.
• Manage subcontractor and supplier solicitation, bid leveling, scope reviews, and negotiations to secure competitive pricing.
• Ensure compliance with company estimating policies, industry standards, contractual requirements, and legal/regulatory guidelines.
• Track historical cost data, maintain cost databases, and incorporate market trends, material pricing, labor rates, and productivity benchmarks into estimates.
• Participate in client presentations, proposal development, interviews, and negotiations as the estimating subject matter expert.
• Drive continuous improvement in estimating accuracy (e.g., variance analysis of completed projects vs. estimates) and implement technology solutions (e.g., estimating software, BIM integration, AI-assisted tools).
• Support business development by contributing to pursuit strategies, go/no-go decisions, and fee/profit projections.
• Stay current on construction industry trends, economic factors, new materials/methods, and innovations in cost estimating and preconstruction practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or a related field (Master's or advanced certifications preferred).
• 12+ years of progressive experience in construction estimating, with at least 5+ years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Chief Estimator, Senior Estimating Manager, or Director-level).
• Proven track record leading estimating efforts on large/complex projects (e.g., $50M+ in value) across multiple project types [specify if known: commercial, healthcare, higher education, infrastructure, etc.].
• Strong expertise in all aspects of cost estimating, including hard-bid, design-build, CMAR, GMP, and conceptual budgeting processes.
• Proficiency with industry-standard estimating software (e.g., Sage Timberline, Destini Estimator, Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, RSMeans, Procore, or similar) and Microsoft Office suite.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Superior leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities to influence cross-functional teams, subcontractors, and clients.
• Demonstrated success in winning competitive bids and maintaining high hit rates.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Experience in [specific sectors if known, e.g., healthcare facilities, data centers, multifamily housing, public works].
• Familiarity with BIM/Revit integration for quantity takeoffs and cost modeling.
• Certifications such as Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), LEED AP, or DBIA (Design-Build Institute of America).
• Knowledge of lean construction, target value design, and sustainable building practices.

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary with performance-based bonus/incentive structure
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401(k) match, PTO, etc.)
• Opportunities for professional growth, continuing education, and industry conference attendance
• Collaborative environment with the chance to lead high-profile projects and shape preconstruction strategy