Job Description: Senior Estimator
Company: BHS Construction
Job Title: Senior Estimator
Job Classification: Exempt, Full-Time
Reporting Relationship: Preconstruction Manager
Annual Salary:
Primary Accountabilities:
As the Senior Estimator at BHS Construction, you will serve as the company's most experienced estimator, responsible for preparing and owning cost estimates for large-scale and complex commercial projects. Reporting to the Preconstruction Manager, you will set the technical standard for estimating accuracy and quality, guide junior estimators through takeoffs and pricing, and deliver accurate, competitive, and client-aligned cost proposals that support the growth and profitability of BHS's project portfolio.
This role drives collaboration across project teams and stakeholders, ensures quality and efficiency in estimating processes, and represents BHS in client engagements to support successful project wins and long-term partnerships.
Major Duties:
- Lead all estimating activities for complex and strategic commercial construction projects valued at $5M or more, from conceptual phase through Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) or final bid.
- Develop, manage, and refine comprehensive cost models, preliminary budgets, and bid proposals that align with client objectives and project goals.
- Collaborate closely with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and internal BHS project teams during preconstruction to ensure accurate and competitive estimates.
- Oversee and verify detailed quantity takeoffs, scope breakdowns, and pricing developed by junior estimators (Estimator I/II).
- Assist with performing value engineering analyses and develop alternate pricing scenarios to optimize project budgets without compromising quality.
- Represent BHS Construction in client interviews, presentations, and meetings, effectively communicating estimating rationale and project understanding.
- Build and sustain strong relationships with key subcontractors and suppliers to improve pricing, availability, and project efficiency.
- Support implementation of improvements and standardization efforts for estimating tools, templates, workflows, and best practices across the estimating department.
- Provide leadership and coordination during bid-day activities, including estimate reviews and internal presentations to executive leadership.
- Monitor market trends and competitive landscapes to inform pricing strategies and project positioning.
- Mentor junior estimators by providing guidance on estimating methods, project understanding, and company standards.
- Ensure all estimates comply with company quality standards, building codes, and client requirements, supporting successful project delivery.
Required Qualifications:
- 5–10+ years of experience in commercial estimating, with experience leading preconstruction efforts.
- In-depth knowledge of all CSI divisions and general contracting practices.
- Proven success in leading winning estimates and collaborating with junior staff.
- Proficient in estimating software and Microsoft Excel at an advanced level
- Proficient in Sage Estimating, On-Screen Takeoff, and Bluebeam Revu
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working effectively with diverse teams.
- Strong organizational, analytical, and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
- Proficiency in reading, writing, and communicating in English.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Willingness to work additional hours as needed to meet business demands.
- Day travel is expected as necessary to support the role.
Work Environment:
- Professional, deadline-oriented environment.
- May require extended periods in company vehicles.
- Noise levels are usually low to moderate in the office and moderate to high in the field
Physical Demands
- Regularly required to sit, use hands to type, handle documents, and operate standard office equipment.
- Frequently required to talk, hear, and communicate in person and via telephone or video.
- Occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, and lift up to 15 pounds.
- Specific vision abilities required include close vision and the ability to adjust focus for prolonged computer use.
Disclaimer
This job description is not exhaustive and is subject to change. Employees may be assigned additional duties at any time and are expected to comply with all company policies and procedures. The physical demands described are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this role, and reasonable accommodation may be made for individuals with disabilities.
