Assistant Estimator

Level Recruiting is looking for an Assistant Estimator for a premier luxury home builder in San Francisco. This role is an excellent fit for individuals with a strong background in construction, pre‑construction and budget development. Previous residential estimation experience is highly desired. Assistant Estimator duties include but are not limited to:

• Produce precise and thorough quantity take‑offs
• Support the development of large‑scale, whole‑project estimates and independently complete small‑scale project estimates
• Determine all rough and finish carpentry costs in collaboration with internal team members
• Negotiate with subcontractors and suppliers to obtain competitive pricing
• Read and interpret construction plans and specifications to define project requirements and scope of work
• Recognize potential plan discrepancies, challenges, and areas of opportunity

• Build an MS Project schedule framework to calculate general conditions costs
• Partner with Project Managers and Superintendents to establish project sequencing and trade durations

• Track project costs throughout the project lifecycle to inform future estimating accuracy
• Perform detailed cost analysis encompassing labor, materials, equipment, overhead, and other applicable expenses
• Compile and organize project data into a reference database for future use
• Keep thorough, well‑organized records of estimates, bids, change orders, and material procurement
• Ensure all documentation meets company standards and protocols
• Stay current on market trends and material pricing to support cost‑effective purchasing decisions
• Actively identify ways to improve estimating workflows, precision, and overall efficiency
• Keep pace with industry best practices and new technologies in construction estimating, including AI‑based tools

• Experience estimating in residential and/or high‑end retail or hospitality construction
• Self‑motivated with the ability to develop new processes and procedures from the ground up
• Advanced ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
• Strong analytical mindset with a focus on detail and accuracy
• Clear and effective communication skills, both written and verbal
• Deep understanding of construction materials, methods, market trends, and vendor relationships
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel, MS Project, Procore, Onscreen Takeoff, Bluebeam, and related software
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team

• Competitive pay of $130,000 to $160,000 annually, DOE
• PTO and Paid Holidays

Level Recruiting is a boutique placement firm that works with the best custom home builders in the Bay Area. With over 40 years of combined experience in the industry, we carefully select our partners to make sure talented candidates are placed at companies with great culture, top pay, interesting projects, and opportunities for growth. We are dedicated to the service of helping to build companies and careers.