An Estimator is responsible for coordinating all project budgeting, including preparing quantity surveys, obtaining subcontractor pricing, and reviewing historical cost data. This role ensures compliance with the scope of work and offers construction feasibility and value engineering counsel. The Estimator stays updated on industry materials and labor pricing trends to deliver accurate and timely estimates for various project phases and provides administrative support to the Chief Estimator, maintaining records and managing subcontractor prequalification.
Responsibilities
Clearly understand the complexity of the scope of work as shown on the construction documents
Prepare detailed material take-offs
Prepare detailed labor estimates utilizing man-hours, crews, and equipment
Organize material and labor information for pricing
Solicit material prices from suppliers
Obtain current labor rates
Prepare unit prices by "Building the Project in your Head"
Verify and compare unit prices or the price of a system with a subcontractor and previous similar estimates
Understand the influence of market conditions on pricing
Prepare subcontractor list from S4 program, or manually
Prepare Bid Invitations
Prepare subcontractor bid packages including transmittals, drawings, and specifications
Follow up with subs regarding bidding and update the subcontractor list
Prepare scope sheets for subcontractors, and review scope of work
Keep Subcontractors up to date with project information and addenda during the bidding process
Answer subcontractor questions
Prepare RFIs to the design team
Assist the Senior Estimator with quantity take-offs and subcontractor solicitation
Prepare document lists and correspondence during pre-construction
Assist the Senior Estimator by preparing take-off quantities of areas and counts of items
Procure drawings and specifications from architect or owner
Date stamp all drawings and spec books
Confirm SCCI is listed in all publications
Confirm with architect/owner that all construction documents have been received and send documents to printer
Put construction documents in plan room
Create bid binder or bid box
Take off of items to be priced by SCCI
Attend site visits
Read all assigned plans and specs completely
Call to confirm local building permit rates
Call the architect the day before the bid and confirm all addenda and supplemental information has been received
Millions of jobs, with real people getting hired every day
200,000+
New jobs added daily
7,000,000+
Verified job listings
1,000,000+
Tailored applications submitted
Assist in the creation of bid packages for the subs
Assist the Senior Estimator in compiling the Turn Over Meeting package
Attend the Turn Over Meeting
Assist the Senior Estimator with Exhibit B and scope sheet preparation
Prepare thorough scope of work spreadsheets
Prepare a thorough control estimate for every trade responsible for
Meet deadlines and allow time for review of work with the Senior or Chief Estimator
Develop a "Plug" number for the trade using the most up to date information available the night before the bid
Complete the scope of work/pricing spread sheets as soon as possible
Follow up with subcontractors for any missing information
Review all pricing and subcontractor information with the Senior and Chief Estimator
Attend any review meetings with the Senior or Lead Estimator
If called to the table or awarded the bid, review the estimate and discuss strategy with the team for any holes, value management, or potential profit pockets
Attend weekly staff meetings and report on status of assignments
Attend Training classes as required
Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture or related field
3-6 years of experience in Estimating, or equivalent
Working knowledge of Excel spreadsheets and Word processing programs
Ability to take off material quantities from a set of SD, DD & CD documents and present information that is organized, thought out and easy to follow
Understanding of Construction Documents
Knowledge of the contents of each CSI section
Ability to read and interpret blueprints in order to understand the scope of work at SD, DD and CD phases of design
Ability to coordinate construction document plans, details and specifications
Possess Suffolk’s Core Values: Passion, Integrity, Hard Work, Professionalism, and Caring
Benefits
Auto allowances and gas cards for certain roles
Access to market leading medical and emotional and mental health benefits
Dental and vision insurance plans
Virtual care options for physical therapy and primary care
Generous paid time off
401k plan with employer match and access to expert financial resources
Company paid and voluntary life insurance
Tax deferred savings accounts
10 backup daycare days each year
Short- and long-term disability
Commuter benefits
Important Details
Schedule: Regularly required to sit for long periods of time; frequently required to stand, walk, and reach with arms and/or hands
About the Company
Suffolk is a national enterprise that builds, innovates and invests, providing value throughout the entire project lifecycle. It leverages core construction management services with vertical service lines that include real estate capital investment, design, self-perform construction services, technology start-up investment, and innovation research/development. Suffolk has more than $9 billion in annual revenue, 2,600 employees, and main offices in Boston (headquarters), New York City, Miami, West Palm Beach, Tampa, Estero, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. It manages complex projects across various industry sectors, including healthcare, life sciences, education, gaming, transportation/aviation, government, mission critical and commercial. Suffolk is privately held and is ranked #8 on ENR’s list of “Top CM-at-Risk Contractors.”
