About
A general contracting and construction management firm specializing in complex commercial projects in New York City. We are known for disciplined execution, clear communication, and operational consistency across every jobsite. We exist to remove confusion, stress, and risk from commercial construction by delivering clear, integrated build-outs in Brooklyn and Manhattan. We guide clients from pre-construction through completion with transparency, discipline, and accountability. We are building the most trusted integrated commercial build-out firm in Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan. Our company is known for clarity, speed, and disciplined execution that protects both budgets and relationships. We are building the most trusted integrated commercial build-out firm in Brooklyn and Manhattan. Our company is known for clarity, speed, and disciplined execution that protects both budgets and relationships. Preconstruction is foundational to our success. Every Estimator is responsible for setting projects up for success by delivering accurate, complete, and well-analyzed budgets that support confident decision-making and profitable execution.
Job Overview
The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial construction projects during preconstruction and pursuit phases. This role analyzes drawings, specifications, and scope narratives to develop detailed budgets, identify risks, and support pricing strategies that align with ADCO Builders’ execution capabilities and financial goals.
The Estimator works closely with the CEO, Project Managers, and Field leadership to ensure pricing reflects real-world constructability, logistics, and market conditions. Success in this role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of commercial construction costs and means and methods.
Core Accountabilities
● Preconstruction Cost Planning & Estimating Accuracy
● Trade Scope Development & Bid Management
● Budget Risk Identification & Mitigation
● Subcontractor Pricing & Market Analysis
● Value Engineering & Cost Optimization
● Preconstruction Team Collaboration
Roles & Responsibilities
Estimating & Cost Development
● Prepare detailed conceptual, schematic, and hard-bid estimates based on drawings,
specifications, and client requirements.
● Perform quantity takeoffs and develop trade-specific scopes of work.
● Develop accurate project budgets, alternatives, and pricing breakdowns.
Subcontractor & Vendor Management
● Identify, prequalify, and solicit qualified subcontractors and suppliers.
● Work alongside the internal insurance coordinator to ensure subcontractors meet insurance standards to avoid re-pricing and delays in project mobilization.
● Issue bid packages with clear scope definitions and expectations.
● Analyze subcontractor bids for completeness, accuracy, and alignment with project scope.
● Level bids and make award recommendations based on cost, capability, and risk.
Risk Analysis & Constructability
● Identify scope gaps, exclusions, assumptions, and constructability risks.
● Collaborate with Project Managers and Superintendents to validate means, methods, logistics, and schedule assumptions.
● Recommend contingency levels and pricing strategies to manage risk appropriately.
Value Engineering & Cost Optimization
● Support value engineering efforts by identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or performance.
● Evaluate alternative materials, systems, and construction approaches.
● Provide cost comparisons and impact analyses to support client decision-making.
Preconstruction Coordination
● Participate in preconstruction meetings, design coordination reviews, and client presentations.
● Support proposal development, clarifications, and interview preparation.
● Assist with project handoff to the operations team, ensuring budget clarity and alignment.
Documentation & Continuous Improvement
● Maintain accurate estimate files, bid tabs, and historical cost data.
● Support continuous improvement of estimating systems, templates, and cost databases.
● Capture lessons learned to improve future estimating accuracy and efficiency.
● Build pricing database for accurate cost estimation and quicker turnaround times for budgets and proposals.
Leadership Expectations
● Act as a steward of accuracy, clarity, and financial discipline.
● Communicate assumptions, risks, and recommendations clearly and confidently.
● Collaborate proactively with operations and field leadership.
● Maintain high standards of professionalism and attention to detail.
● Support ADCO Builders’ culture of planning and disciplined execution.
Qualifications & Experience
● Minimum of 5–8 years of experience in commercial construction estimating.
● Strong knowledge of NYC market pricing, subcontractor landscape, and labor conditions.
● Proven ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
● Experience with estimating software, takeoff tools, and spreadsheet-based cost modeling.
● Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred.
Key Competencies
● Strong analytical and quantitative skills
● Detail-oriented with a high standard of accuracy
● Clear, concise, and professional communication
● Proactive and solution-oriented mindset
● Strong understanding of construction means and methods
● High sense of ownership and accountability
Disclaimer: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. Duties, responsibilities, and expectations may be modified at any time based on business needs.