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Senior Estimator Jobs

A Senior Estimator is a vital position within the construction industry, tasked with creating accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for large-scale projects. This role involves assessing project scope, developing financial summaries, and ensuring estimates meet budget and timeline requirements.

Senior Estimator Jobs require collaboration with designers, engineers, and project teams to produce detailed estimates and manage the bidding process. They also play a key role in identifying risks, negotiating with subcontractors, and ensuring compliance with contract specifications.

Leading the estimating team, the Senior Estimator provides direction throughout the estimation process and is essential in preparing budgets and pre-bid packages. Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills are crucial for success in this role.

National Yearly Income Range: 

$90,000 - $140,000

Why Being a Senior Estimator is Great.

A Senior Estimator is a pivotal role in the construction and project management industry, offering a unique blend of analytical skills and strategic thinking. This position allows professionals to leverage their expertise in cost analysis, project planning, and risk assessment, making significant contributions to the success of various projects. With the opportunity to work on diverse projects, Senior Estimators can enhance their knowledge and experience while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. The role also provides a clear career progression path, with potential for leadership positions and increased responsibilities.

Senior Estimator Jobs are in high demand, reflecting the essential nature of accurate estimations in ensuring projects stay within budget and on schedule.

Senior Estimator Job Duties And Responsibilities

Senior estimators play a crucial role in preparing accurate project cost estimates based on detailed drawings, outlines, and job specifications. They review estimates from architects and engineers, ensuring completeness and accuracy, while also attending pre-bid meetings to determine the scope of work and respond to requests for proposals. By soliciting bids from subcontractors and negotiating with material suppliers, they develop comprehensive estimates that account for various construction methodologies, such as Bid-Build and Design-Build. Additionally, they analyze bid documents for risks and opportunities, maintain project cost histories, and foster relationships with clients and subcontractors to ensure successful project execution.

Why be a Senior Estimator with IES Residential?

Becoming a Senior Estimator with IES Residential offers a unique opportunity to join a respected leader in the electrical services industry with over 50 years of experience and a commitment to excellence. You will be part of a dynamic team that values safety, collaboration, and continuous learning, all while contributing to a diverse portfolio that includes electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and solar solutions. IESR's strong financial health and focus on employee development ensure that you will have the resources and support to grow your career.

Additionally, you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the company, making a positive impact on communities, and fostering an inclusive workplace culture that celebrates individuality and teamwork.

Company Benefits

Competitive Wages

401(k) Plan with Contribution Matching

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Company Paid Life Insurance

Medical, Dental, & Vision Coverage

Short Term Disability Plans

Optional Long-Term Disability

Optional Critical Illness, Accident, Legal, & Pet Coverage.

Experience

40 Years

Employees

9000+

Revenue

$2B+

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FAQs

What's a Senior Estimator's job description?

A Senior Estimator in the construction industry is responsible for creating accurate cost estimates for large projects. They evaluate project scope, develop financial summaries, and ensure estimates meet budget and timeline requirements. Collaborating with designers and engineers, they manage the bidding process, identify risks, negotiate with subcontractors, and ensure compliance with contracts. Leading the estimating team, they prepare budgets and pre-bid packages while utilizing strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills.

What is the average salary of a Senior Estimator?

The average salary of a Senior Estimator in the United States is approximately $115,000 per year, which translates to about $55 per hour. Salaries typically range from $90,000 to $140,000 annually, depending on factors like location, industry, and experience.

How do I get a Senior Estimator job?

To secure a Senior Estimator job, start by obtaining a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field. Gain at least 10 years of experience in estimating, cost controls, or engineering roles. Develop strong analytical and critical-thinking skills, and become proficient in reading technical drawings and project plans. Familiarize yourself with estimating software like OnScreen Takeoff and Heavy Bid, and enhance your computer skills with Microsoft Office and AutoCAD. Cultivate excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills, and demonstrate your ability to work under pressure. Consider obtaining USGBC LEED accreditation to improve your qualifications. Networking and applying for positions that match your skills will also be essential.

What are the job duties of a Senior Estimator?

A Senior Estimator is responsible for preparing detailed project cost estimates based on drawings and specifications, reviewing estimates for accuracy, and attending pre-bid meetings to define project scope. They solicit bids from subcontractors, negotiate with suppliers, and analyze bid documents to identify risks. Additionally, they lead the bid team, prepare quantity surveys, and maintain cost history records. Building relationships with clients and stakeholders, managing subcontractor databases, and ensuring timely submission of documents are also key duties. They stay updated on estimating technology and collaborate with various teams to ensure project success.

How much does a Senior Estimator make per hour?

A Senior Estimator typically makes between $43 and $67 per hour, with an average hourly rate of around $55 based on an annual salary of approximately $115,000.

Is a Senior Estimator job fullfilling?

A Senior Estimator job can be fulfilling for those who enjoy problem-solving, project management, and working in a collaborative environment. It offers opportunities for career advancement, financial rewards, and the satisfaction of contributing to successful projects. However, fulfillment varies based on individual interests and workplace culture.

How long does it take to become a Senior Estimator?

To become a Senior Estimator typically takes around 10 to 15 years of experience in estimating, cost controls, or engineering-related roles, along with a relevant bachelor's degree. Key skills include proficiency in estimating software, strong analytical abilities, and excellent communication skills.

Is there a demand for Senior Estimators?

Yes, there is a strong demand for Senior Estimators across various industries, particularly in construction, engineering, and project management, due to the need for accurate cost assessments and project planning.

What are Senior Estimator career paths?

Senior Estimator career paths typically include advancement to roles such as Estimating Manager, Project Manager, or Director of Estimating. Professionals may also transition into specialized areas like Cost Engineering or Risk Management. Additionally, some may choose to move into executive positions such as Vice President of Operations or Chief Financial Officer, leveraging their estimating expertise to influence broader business strategies. Continuing education and certifications can further enhance career progression opportunities.

What are the job responsibilities of a Senior Estimator?

A Senior Estimator is responsible for preparing project cost estimates based on drawings and specifications, reviewing estimates for accuracy, and attending pre-bid meetings to determine project scope. They request bids from subcontractors, negotiate with suppliers, and develop comprehensive estimates for various construction methods. The role involves analyzing bid documents to identify risks, organizing the bid team, and preparing detailed quantity surveys. Senior Estimators also gather actual cost data, manage subcontractor databases, and build relationships with stakeholders. They formulate contingency plans, stay updated on estimating technology, and ensure timely submission of documents and budgets while regularly reporting project status to management.

What are the requirements to get a Senior Estimator job?

To secure a Senior Estimator position, candidates typically need the following requirements:

1. Education: A bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field.
2. Experience: At least 10 years of experience in estimating, cost controls, or engineering-related roles.
3. Skills: Strong analytical and critical-thinking abilities, excellent math skills, and proficiency in estimating software (e.g., OnScreen Takeoff, Heavy Bid).
4. Technical Proficiency: Ability to read technical drawings and project plans, and strong computer skills including Microsoft Office and AutoCAD.
5. Organizational Skills: Excellent time management, multitasking abilities, and the capacity to work independently or as part of a team.
6. Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills.
7. Knowledge: Understanding of engineering principles and spatial relationships.
8. Pressure Management: Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
9. Preferred Qualifications: USGBC LEED accreditation may be preferred in some cases.

Are there entry level Senior Estimator jobs?

Entry-level Senior Estimator positions typically do not exist, as the role generally requires significant experience in estimating and project management. Common requirements include a bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field, along with proficiency in estimating software, strong analytical skills, and knowledge of construction processes and materials. Effective communication and teamwork abilities are also essential for success in this role.

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