Estimator

Description

Position Summary
The Preconstruction Estimator is responsible for developing accurate and strategic project budgets while supporting a highly collaborative preconstruction process. This role plays a key part in identifying risks and opportunities, driving value, and ensuring a seamless transition from preconstruction to operations.
Key Responsibilities
Estimating & Preconstruction Execution
Utilize and coordinate resources efficiently and effectively across multiple projects
Provide accurate conceptual budgets and detailed estimates across all project phases
Develop comprehensive scopes of work based on contract documents
Identify potential scope gaps, overlaps, and inconsistencies
Interpret and apply project-specific General Conditions (GCs) and General Requirements (GRs)
Collaboration & Communication
Communicate proactively with internal and external project teams to gather feedback and validate assumptions
Participate in client presentations, interviews, and proposal preparation
Provide clear and organized proposal deliverables when required
Finalize and deliver a thorough and accurate turnover package to operations teams
Risk Management & Strategy
Identify and manage project risks and opportunities throughout the preconstruction process
Develop, track, and manage budget tracking reports
Identify, track, and implement early release and procurement strategies
Subcontractor & Market Engagement
Establish and maintain strong working relationships with a diverse pool of subcontractors and vendors
Support competitive bidding and ensure thorough bid coverage
Continuous Improvement & Leadership
Improve and refine existing estimating processes, tools, and technologies
Mentor and support the development of junior team members
Actively contribute to a culture of learning and continuous improvement
Requirements

Required Skills/Abilities: Working knowledge of construction estimating concepts and cost analysis.
 Ability to review construction drawings, specifications, and project documentation.
  Ability to perform quantity takeoffs and develop project cost estimates.
 Strong analytical and problem-solving skills related to construction projects.
  Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple estimating tasks and deadlines.
 Effective verbal and written communication skills when working with project teams and subcontractors.
 Proficiency with estimating specific software and Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook) or similar software.
Qualifications
Minimum
3-6 years of experience
in construction estimating or preconstruction
Strong understanding of construction documents, methods, and sequencing
Excellent verbal, written, visual, and virtual communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel), Microsoft Project, On-Screen Takeoff (OST), and Bluebeam
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities
The Columbia Way
Demonstrate accountability, ownership, and integrity in all aspects of work
Collaborate openly and respectfully with teammates, partners, and clients
Strive for continuous improvement and innovation
Contribute to a positive, team-first culture
Deliver an exceptional experience—every project, every time
Think “outside the box” and challenge the status quo.
Columbia Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Columbia does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, staffing agencies, or any other third parties. Any resumes submitted to Columbia or its employees without an agreement in place will be considered the property of Columbia, and the company will not be responsible for any associated fees or placement costs. Third-party vendors interested in working with Columbia must contact recruiting@columbiacc.com to be considered for an approved vendor agreement. All approved vendors must submit candidates directly to Talent Acquisition. Submissions sent to hiring managers or any employee outside of Columbia Talent Acquisition will not be recognized and may disqualify the agency from future partnership consideration.
Columbia Construction is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. A candidate’s salary is determined by various factors including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, and certifications. We evaluate compensation decisions on a case-by-case basis.