Senior Estimator

SENIOR ESTIMATOR SAN LUIS OBISPO, CACOMPANY Precision is a forward-thinking firm specializing in preconstruction consulting, construction management, and general construction services. We serve a wide range of clients — from aerospace innovators to private equity firms, real estate developers, architects, engineers, and government agencies. Whether our clients need help with projects straight out of science fiction (i.e., Hyperloop technology) or simply want to mitigate risk in their commercial real estate portfolios, we empower them to build better projects in our quest to advance the construction industry.OPPORTUNITYThe Senior Estimator plays a critical role in driving successful project pursuits by leading the preparation of accurate, complete, and competitive construction cost estimates across all phases of design. This role owns the estimating process for complex and high-value projects and partners closely with Preconstruction leadership, Operations, and external partners to identify risk, refine pricing strategy, and support predictable project outcomes.The Senior Estimator is expected to operate independently, lead estimating efforts on large and complex pursuits, and contribute to building estimating discipline, systems, and best practices across the Preconstruction function. This role will also support the development and mentorship of future estimating team members as the department grows.RESPONSIBILITIESLead Estimating ExecutionLead preparation of conceptual, schematic, design development, GMP, and hard-bid estimatesIndependently manage estimating for complex and high-value projects ($10M–$20M+)Plan and manage estimating activities for assigned pursuits, including schedule, coverage strategy, and key deliverablesPerform detailed quantity takeoffs and scope analysis across project phasesDevelop and maintain estimate summaries, bid tabs, cost comparisons, and basis-of-estimate documentationIdentify and clearly document assumptions, exclusions, and project risksPrepare clear variance analysis between estimate phases and communicate cost drivers to leadershipSubcontractor & Vendor StrategyBuild and maintain strong trade partner relationshipsDrive subcontractor coverage, scope completeness, and competitive pricingAnalyze, level, and validate subcontractor proposals and identify scope gapsSupport scope clarification and coordination through bid and award phasesRisk, Pricing & Pursuit StrategyIdentify cost drivers, pricing risks, and scope exposure early in the pursuitContribute to pursuit strategy, pricing approach, and bid positioningDevelop and price value alternatives and scope options when appropriateCommunicate estimating insights, risks, and cost drivers to Preconstruction and Operations leadershipProject Handoff & Cross-Functional AlignmentEnsure clean, complete, and accurate handoff to Operations following awardMaintain estimate integrity and scope clarity during transitionSupport scope alignment and clarification through early buyout phasesCollaborate with Operations, field, and project teams throughout the preconstruction lifecycleSystems, Standards & Continuous ImprovementMaintain organized estimating documentation and cost historyContribute to improving estimating tools, templates, and disciplineSupport accurate forecasting and disciplined pursuit planningHelp build scalable estimating standards and best practicesMentorship & Team DevelopmentProvide guidance and support to developing estimators as the team growsContribute to onboarding and development of future junior estimatorsHelp strengthen estimating consistency and quality across the departmentREQUIREMENTS5+years of construction estimating experience (commercial and/or public sector preferred)Knowledgeable in CSI codes, quantity survey, unit costingExperience in California marketsProven experience estimating complex and/or large-scale projects ($10M+)Strong understanding of construction scope, cost drivers, and delivery methodsAbility to independently lead the full estimating process from concept through bidStrong analytical, organizational, and communication skillsAbility to identify risk and think strategically about pricing and scopeExperience coordinating with subcontractors, design teams, and project stakeholdersProficiency in estimating software, OST, Bluebeam, Excel, Microsoft and document management tools preferredDriving is a requirement of this jobKey CompetenciesStrong judgment and risk awarenessOwnership and accountabilityAttention to detail and accuracyClear and effective communicationCollaboration across Preconstruction and OperationsLeadership and mentorship mindsetAdaptability in a dynamic, fast-paced environment