Senior Estimator

Who We AreNamed a 2025 Top Workplace, HJD Capital is a dynamic and innovative employee-owned construction company that values collaboration, quality, and client satisfaction. As a 100% employee-owned organization, we take pride in our collective achievements and prioritize creating opportunities for professional growth. We've grown from providing electrical services to offering a full range of solutions, including electrical, utility, general construction, construction management, and 24-hour plumbing and electrical service/maintenance. With a proven reputation as a highly specialized contractor, we proudly serve the government entities and commercial clients across the greater San Antonio area.Job SummaryThe Senior Estimator analyzes project plans, specifications, and requirements to develop detailed and accurate cost estimates. This role involves evaluating labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor costs while identifying potential risks and cost-saving opportunities. The Senior Estimator collaborates with project managers, engineers, and clients to ensure estimates align with project scope and business objectives. They often lead the estimating process, mentor junior estimators, and contribute to bid strategies to secure profitable projects.ResponsibilitiesEstimating & Scope DevelopmentPerform detailed quantity take-offs from plans, specs, and field observationsDevelop scopes of work from both complete and incomplete documentationWalk job sites and translate field conditions into actionable scopesCreate structured scope sheets for subcontractor pricingBid Leveling & Subcontractor CoordinationSolicit bids from subcontractors and vendorsLevel bids against defined scopes to identify:GapsOverlapsInconsistenciesEnsure accurate, comparable, and defensible pricingCommunicate with subcontractors to clarify scope and assumptionsBuild and maintain strong subcontractor/vendor relationshipsPricing & Cost DevelopmentDevelop detailed, line-item estimates (labor, material, equipment, subs)Avoid lump-sum pricing; ensure full cost transparencyApply unit-based pricing and Job Item Pricing (JIP) methodologiesUtilize OST, E4Clicks, and RSMeans for estimating accuracyAnalyze cost drivers, risks, and constructability factorsStrategic Execution & Business ImpactEvaluate multiple construction approaches and recommend best execution strategyBalance cost, schedule, and constructability in decision-makingAlign estimates with company profitability goals and market competitivenessSupport value engineering and alternative solution developmentContribute to continuous improvement of estimating processesExternal Relationship ManagementEngage with clients during preconstruction to align scope and expectationsAct as a key point of contact with subcontractors and vendorsBuild long-term, trusted relationships with external partnersRepresent the company professionally in all interactionsCollaboration & CoordinationPartner with Project Managers and Superintendents on scope validationCoordinate with MEP trades and technical experts as neededAdapt estimating approach based on project type (commercial, municipal, JOC)Ensure compliance with contract requirementsMinimum Requirements & QualificationsHigh attention to detail and strong analytical thinkingAdvanced plan reading and scope interpretation skillsProven experience in take-offs, scope development, and bid levelingAbility to create scopes from field walks without full plansStrong communication skills with internal and external stakeholdersStrategic mindset with ability to evaluate multiple execution optionsStrong understanding of construction means and methodsAbility to manage multiple estimates and deadlinesPreferred QualificationsExperience with On-Screen Takeoff (OST) or STACKExperience with E4Clicks / RSMeans / eConvergeExperience with Job Item Pricing Sheets (JIPs)Experience with Job Order Contracting (JOC)Experience in concrete constructionExperience mentoring or leading estimatorsBenefitsMedical, Dental, and Vision insurancePaid Time Off & Holiday PayEligibility for ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) - This allows you to have shares and ownership in the company!401kHealth Savings Account for medical costsLife insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, and critical illness & hospitalization indemnity