MJS - Estimator

Job Description

Construction Estimator / Senior Estimator

Chicago, IL

Overview

A Chicago-based, full-service construction firm specializing in hospitality, retail, multifamily, residential, and commercial core & shell projects is seeking an Estimator or Senior Estimator to join its preconstruction team.

This organization is known for delivering high-quality, design-forward projects through collaboration, strategic planning, and disciplined execution. The team values mentorship, accountability, and professional growth, offering a strong platform for experienced estimators looking to lead and refine preconstruction operations.

Role Summary

Reporting to the Director of Preconstruction and working closely with Project Executives, Operations, and Development teams, the Senior Estimator serves as the lead estimator on complex projects and plays a key role in guiding the broader preconstruction function.

This individual will manage the full estimating lifecycle - from early conceptual budgeting through GMP - while setting standards for accuracy, consistency, and communication across the estimating team.

For candidates at the Estimator level, responsibilities will scale based on experience and project complexity.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Estimating & Budget Ownership

• Serve as lead estimator on multifamily and commercial projects
• Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, and GMP-level estimates
• Develop estimating strategies, scopes, assumptions, and work plans
• Lead quantity takeoffs, subcontractor bidding, leveling, and scope reconciliation
• Ensure estimate accuracy, completeness, and proactive risk identification

Estimating Process Leadership

• Oversee day-to-day estimating coordination across preconstruction staff and trade partners
• Guide teams through cost drivers, value engineering, and design impacts
• Present cost narratives, estimate summaries, and variance analyses to leadership and ownership groups

Standards & Continuous Improvement

• Establish and maintain estimating templates, processes, and best practices
• Review and validate estimates prepared by other team members
• Maintain and leverage a historical cost database for benchmarking and forecasting
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, scalability, and consistency within preconstruction

Team Development

• Support and mentor preconstruction managers, estimators, and junior team members
• Provide technical guidance and elevate overall team performance
• Foster a culture of ownership, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Assist in onboarding and developing new team members

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field
• 7-10 years of experience leading estimates for multifamily or commercial construction (Senior level)
• Experience managing complex budgets and GMP processes
• Demonstrated leadership and mentorship within estimating or preconstruction teams
• Strong technical, organizational, and communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office required
• Experience with Procore, Zebel, or similar estimating software preferred