Senior Estimator
Columbus, OH
$120K–$155K Base + Bonus + Profit Sharing + Long-Term Leadership Growth
About the Opportunity
Join one of the Midwest’s most respected construction management firms — a top ENR-ranked General Contractor known for its strong culture, employee ownership mindset, and diverse pipeline of complex work across commercial, healthcare, higher education, industrial, and other high-profile sectors.
This opportunity is ideal for an experienced estimator who wants more than simply producing numbers — it offers meaningful influence in preconstruction strategy, direct collaboration with operations leadership, and the ability to help shape major pursuits from early concept through final pricing.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Estimator with strong preconstruction experience and the ability to lead estimates on complex projects typically valued at $20M+.
The ideal candidate brings both technical depth and leadership capability — someone comfortable owning large estimates, mentoring junior team members, and contributing strategically to how projects are pursued and won.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage detailed cost estimates across large, complex construction projects
- Review drawings, specifications, and conceptual documents to identify scope, risk, and pricing strategy
- Develop accurate quantity takeoffs, cost models, and estimate narratives across multiple design phases
- Oversee subcontractor and vendor outreach, bid leveling, scope reviews, and pricing alignment
- Identify value engineering opportunities and support constructability discussions early in pursuit
- Guide and mentor junior estimators, providing technical leadership and estimate review
- Collaborate closely with project management, field operations, owners, and design teams
- Present budgets, estimate strategy, and recommendations to executive leadership and clients
- Monitor market conditions, material pricing, labor trends, and subcontractor conditions
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred
- 8–10+ years of estimating or preconstruction experience with a General Contractor or CM
- Demonstrated success estimating projects valued at $20M+
- Strong understanding of conceptual estimating, GMP development, and value engineering
- Leadership ability with experience mentoring or guiding less experienced estimators
- Proficiency with estimating and preconstruction software tools
- Strong communication, presentation, and organizational skills
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary: $120,000 – $155,000 depending on experience
- Annual performance bonus
- Profit-sharing program
- Comprehensive benefits package
- 401(k) with company contribution
- PTO
- Clear leadership track with long-term advancement opportunity
Why This Role Stands Out
- High visibility within a highly respected preconstruction team
- Strong internal collaboration with operations and executive leadership
- Diverse backlog of large, complex projects already secured
- Clear runway into senior preconstruction leadership over time
