Senior Construction Estimator

About Us: Edwards Construction Group is a premier commercial construction firm that has been building the critical infrastructure for communities across California for decades. What truly sets us apart is our integrated, hands-on approach to building. We believe in empowering our people, not just constructing great projects.With a team of nearly one-hundred industry professionals, we deliver projects across key sectors, including K-12, Higher Education, Civic, and Private Commercial. Our expertise is rooted in a commitment to excellence, driven by innovation in technology, and grounded in an uncompromising dedication to safety.At ECG, we provide mentorship and growth opportunities in a collaborative environment where every voice is valued. If you are a professional who thrives on challenges and is ready to contribute to a forward-thinking, industry-leading team, we invite you to apply!About the Role: The Senior Construction Estimator plays a critical role in the early success of every project. You will be responsible for developing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates from conceptual budgeting through final bid submission. Working closely with Preconstruction, Operations, and Executive Leadership, you will help ensure every bid is complete, competitive, and aligned with project goals.This is not just a takeoff role, it is a strategic position that requires strong analytical thinking, sound judgment, and proactive collaboration across teams.You will lead preconstruction services for complex commercial construction projects delivered through progressive design-build, CMAR, and negotiated delivery methods, where the contractor is responsible for establishing and validating the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP).This role functions as both a technical estimator and a strategic project partner, collaborating with owners, designers, and internal operations teams to develop accurate budgets, manage risk, and guide projects from conceptual planning through final GMP.You will play a key role in winning work, shaping project scope, and ensuring financial success before construction begins.Job Duties: You will lead estimating and cost planning efforts from concept through issued GMP, including conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimatesYou will review construction documents to define and scope work accuratelyYou will perform detailed quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and unit pricing for materials, labor, equipment, and general conditionsYou will prepare complete, competitive, and defendable estimates, proposals, and bid packages aligned with project scope and contract requirementsYou will coordinate all aspects of the estimating process, including bid management, documentation tracking, and pre-award negotiationsYou will solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier bids, maintaining qualified subcontractor/vendor lists and assessing qualifications and financial stabilityYou will validate quantities, production rates, market pricing, and GMP assumptions, including risk, allowances, and contingency strategiesYou will facilitate progressive design-build pricing evolution and provide value analysis, constructability input, and cost guidance to the project teamYou will participate in owner, architect, and design meetings as the contractor's cost advisorYou will reconcile estimates with design teams and owner representatives and track design changes and budget impacts in real timeYou will prepare and present detailed estimate narratives, bid summaries, and scope analyses to support decision-makingYou will guide subcontractor buyout strategy, early trade partner involvement, and procurement planning for long-lead items and escalation risksYou will support post-bid activities, including project buyout assistance and cost clarifications for Project ManagersYou will maintain and develop estimating databases, historical cost data, pricing resources, and trade rate referencesYou will continuously improve estimating processes and workflows to increase accuracy and efficiencyRequirementsProfessional Skills:Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)8+ years of estimating experience in commercial and/or public works construction with senior-level responsibility for complex projectsStrong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and cost structuresExperience performing quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, budget development, and producing accurate, competitive estimates under deadlinesAbility to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contractsExperience soliciting, evaluating, and leveling subcontractor and supplier bidsExperience supporting value engineering, cost optimization, and risk analysisExperience with Progressive Design-Build, Lease-Leaseback, CM at Risk (CMAR), Negotiated / Relationship-Based Contracts, Early Contractor Involvement, and Multi-Phase GMP developmentUnderstanding of project scheduling, sequencing, and site logistics as they relate to costsProficiency in estimating and construction software (e.g., Bluebeam, PlanSwift, Procore, Sage)Familiarity with local codes, permitting, and regulatory requirementsStrong written and verbal communication for internal teams and external stakeholdersPersonal Strengths:Analytical, detail-oriented, and proactive problem-solverSelf-motivated with a sense of ownership over projectsCollaborative team player who works effectively across multiple departmentsStrong judgment and decision-making under pressureAdaptable in a fast-paced construction environmentHighly organized with the ability to manage multiple bids and prioritiesIntegrity and professionalism when interacting with clients, vendors, and subcontractorsClear and effective communicatorBenefitsEdwards Construction Group, Inc. offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:Competitive salary based on experienceMedical, Dental, & Vision insurance401(K) matchingPaid time offA typical hiring range for this position is $140,000 - $150,000 USD salary with the final offer based on your qualifications, job-related skills, and relevant experience. In addition, ECG's total rewards offering also includes comprehensive benefits, continuing education bonus program, and opportunities for career growth.ECG is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business needs.