Commercial Estimator

As a Commercial Estimator at L.E. Smith, your primary duties will include supporting all aspects of subcontractor and supplier estimating, processing RFQs and RFPs, drafting and delivering proposals, and working closely with project teams. You'll also be expected to ensure compliance with bidding regulations and effectively communicate with internal and external stakeholders.

To be eligible for the Commercial Estimator position at L.E. Smith, candidates should have at least 4 years of experience in interior finishes sales or as an estimator. Strong analytical skills, proficiency with estimating software, and the ability to manage multiple projects efficiently are also important qualifications that will set you up for success.

The work culture at L.E. Smith is supportive and collaborative, emphasizing teamwork and the value of every employee's input. The company is committed to creating an environment where individuals feel appreciated and engaged, fostering a sense of belonging and dedication among staff members.

L.E. Smith provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401k plan with a 4% company match, life insurance, and paid time off. These benefits demonstrate the company's commitment to supporting the well-being of their employees, allowing them to focus on their roles effectively.

Yes, the Commercial Estimator position at L.E. Smith is primarily remote, allowing you to enjoy the flexibility of working from home. However, occasional visits to job sites and in-person meetings in Bryan, OH, are required, reflecting the company’s collaborative approach while ensuring efficient project management.

When discussing your experience, highlight specific projects where you successfully managed estimates. Mention the types of finishes you've worked with, how you collaborated with other teams, and any software or tools you utilized during the estimation process to show your expertise.

Effective prioritization is crucial in estimating roles. Share your techniques for organizing your workload, such as using project management tools, creating timelines, and breaking down tasks into manageable chunks. Having a structured approach shows your ability to handle multiple deadlines efficiently.

Choose a specific project where you faced obstacles, such as tight deadlines, unexpected changes, or new client requirements. Explain the steps you took to address the challenges, the strategies you implemented, and the successful outcome that resulted from your efforts.

Discuss your knowledge of industry standards and regulations. Explain how you stay updated on changes in regulations and highlight your collaborative work with legal and compliance teams to ensure that all estimates are accurate and adhere to all guidelines.

Emphasize the importance of communication and teamwork in your workflow. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with sales representatives and project managers, showcasing your ability to gather input, share insights, and contribute to unified project goals.

Share your process for creating compelling proposals, from gathering information to drafting and finalizing documents. Highlight your presentation skills, perhaps mentioning any success in securing projects through effective proposal pitches.

Discuss key performance indicators such as accuracy of estimates, bid win rates, and client feedback. Mention your analytical skills in assessing past projects to refine your future estimating processes based on these metrics.

Talk about your methodology for identifying potential risks early in the estimating process and implementing quality assurance controls. This could include regular communications with project teams and thorough reviews of project scope and budget inputs.

Detail your experience with relevant estimating software and tools, including any specific programs you're proficient in. Discuss how these tools aid in accuracy and efficiency, making sure to affirm your openness to learning new technologies that L.E. Smith utilizes.

Express your admiration for L.E. Smith's reputation in the industry and your alignment with their values. Discuss how your skills and career goals complement the company’s mission and the impacts you hope to make as part of their team.