Senior Estimator

Reports To
:
Director of Business Development

Classification
:
Exempt

The Senior Estimator is responsible for leading the preparation of detailed and accurate cost estimates for complex and large-scale construction projects. This role provides oversight, mentorship, and guidance to Preconstruction and Project Management team members, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and alignment with company goals. The Senior Estimator works closely with Preconstruction and Project Management colleagues, clients, architects, engineers, consultants, and subcontractors to develop comprehensive budgets and strategies that support Dicon’s pursuit and execution of successful projects.

• Leads the preparation of estimates for large and complex construction projects, including conceptual, schematic, design development, and GMP estimates.
• Reviews drawings, specifications, and other documentation to determine scope, requirements, and potential cost impacts.
• Oversees and reviews work prepared by estimators and support staff, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Provides strategic input on cost trends, constructability, and value-engineering opportunities throughout preconstruction.
• Coordinates estimating efforts with project management, field operations, and business development teams to align cost, schedule, and client expectations.
• Reviews and incorporates historical cost data from purchase orders, subcontracts, and job cost reports into unit and man-hour figures.
• Establishes and maintains strong relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and other partners to ensure competitive and reliable pricing.
• Attends and conducts pre-bid meetings, site visits, and design review sessions to assess risks and clarify scope.
• Provides leadership in bid strategy, subcontractor selection, and pricing reviews.
• Evaluates design alternatives and recommends cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or performance.
• Reviews and approves final estimate packages before submission to management or clients.
• Tracks and analyzes project performance versus estimates to refine future pricing accuracy.
• Mentors estimators and provides training on company standards, best practices, and estimating software.
• Assists in the development and continuous improvement of estimating procedures, databases, and systems.
• Performs additional assignments as directed by senior management.

The ideal candidate holds a bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A minimum of 5-8 years of high-volume estimating, cost control, or engineering experience in the commercial construction industry, including responsibility for large or complex projects across multiple industries, is required. Experience in leading estimating teams, working conceptually, and managing multiple concurrent bids is strongly preferred.

Candidates must demonstrate strong leadership and team management skills, possess strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, effectively manage client relationships, and have a deep understanding of financial and risk analysis. They must be a team player, authentic, confident, and accountable. The candidate should possess excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to produce professional proposals and presentations. They should work well in a team environment and have the ability to develop team members.

Expert knowledge of construction methods, materials, and industry best practices is required. Ability to use historical and current market data to assemble preliminary conceptual estimates, strong understanding of cost estimating techniques, market pricing, and bid strategy, and proficiency in reading and interpreting complex plans, specifications, and contract documents are essential. Proficiency with computerized estimating systems such as Sage, cost databases, and Microsoft Office Suite is required.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills, along with excellent communication and leadership abilities, are essential. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet critical deadlines is also necessary.

Mid-Senior level

Full‑time

Management and Manufacturing

Construction