Construction Estimator – Commercial Concrete

Pay:From $80,000.00 per year

At KCS, we bring construction visions to life—safely, on time, and with excellence. Headquartered in Columbia, Tennessee, we are a full-service construction company offering commercial concrete, general contracting, and specialty services across the Southeast. With more than two decades of experience, KCS has earned a reputation for integrity, performance, and a commitment to doing things the right way. Whether delivering structural concrete solutions or turnkey building projects, we’re proud to be a trusted partner in helping clients build lasting legacies.

KCS is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Construction Estimator to support preconstruction efforts across both our Commercial Concrete and Building Group (General Contracting) divisions. This dual-focus role will play a key part in developing competitive, accurate cost estimates, ensuring projects are scoped and budgeted effectively. The Estimator will work cross-functionally with project teams, engineers, and subcontractors to support both self-performed concrete and general construction opportunities.

• Prepare accurate and detailed cost estimates for both concrete-specific and full-scope commercial construction projects.
• Analyze blueprints, drawings, and specifications to determine project scope and required resources.
• Quantify labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor needs across both business units.
• Develop bid packages and proposals for new projects, ensuring all pricing reflects current market trends and company standards.
• Participate in bid walks and pre-bid meetings with prospective clients and partners.
• Ensure bid schedules and deliverables are met on time.
• Solicit pricing and proposals from suppliers and subcontractors for all scopes of work.
• Review submitted bids for accuracy, completeness, and competitiveness.
• Build strong relationships with trade partners and material vendors.
• Identify potential risks, discrepancies, or value engineering opportunities during the estimating phase.
• Recommend solutions to reduce project costs without compromising quality or schedule.
• Support post-bid cost adjustments and scope refinement as needed.
• Partner with operations, project management, and field teams to ensure continuity from estimate to execution.
• Work closely with leadership to support pipeline development and preconstruction planning for both divisions.
• Utilize estimating software (e.g., The Edge, HCSS, Excell Sheets, Bluebeam, etc.) to prepare takeoffs and generate reports.
• Maintain organized and transparent records of all estimates, vendor quotes, and assumptions.

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 5 years of experience as a Construction Estimator in commercial construction or concrete-specific roles.
• Strong understanding of commercial concrete work and general contracting project life cycles.
• Proficient in estimating software and Excel; experience with Procore is a plus.
• Knowledge of local building codes, OSHA regulations, and industry best practices.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong communication and negotiation abilities when working with vendors and internal teams.

• Attention to Detail:
  Delivers highly accurate estimates and documentation.
• Collaboration:
  
  Works effectively across both concrete and general contracting teams.
• Adaptability:
  Adjusts strategies based on project type, market trends, or division needs.
• Time Management:
  Manages multiple estimates and bid schedules simultaneously.
• Strategic Thinking:
  Identifies opportunities for cost savings and value engineering.

• Competitive salary + performance-based bonuses
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Simple IRA with company match after 1 year of employment
• Paid time off and company holidays

KCS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.