Senior Estimator

As a Senior Estimator, your primary responsibilities will include reviewing proposal specifications, analyzing construction drawings, and preparing detailed estimates. You will also monitor clients’ addenda to provide timely advice to the estimating team, calculate material quantity requirements, and assist in design reviews to recommend cost-effective solutions. Additionally, you will partner with the estimating team to facilitate project hand-off meetings and manage vendor interactions to achieve cost goals.

To qualify as a Senior Estimator in Chino, you must hold a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Construction Management or a related field. You should possess at least 15 years of experience in the construction industry, specifically in estimating or cost control, and have specialized knowledge of alternative construction delivery methods. Familiarity with HCSS Heavy Bid Estimating Software is preferred, along with strong technical writing skills.

An ideal Senior Estimator will have excellent analytical skills, a detail-oriented approach, and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks effectively. You should also excel in communication and possess strong technical writing capabilities. Leadership experience is crucial, especially for managing estimation activities on large or complex projects, as well as the ability to collaborate effectively with teams.

As a Senior Estimator in Chino, you will be involved in a variety of construction projects requiring detailed and accurate estimates. These may include large or complex commercial and residential projects. Your role will be critical in ensuring that the estimating process aligns with financial goals and project timelines, making your contributions essential to project success.

Our Senior Estimators enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes a competitive salary ranging from $160,000 to $200,000 per year. Other benefits include a robust 401(k) plan, medical and dental coverage, wellness benefits, an Employee Assistance Program, a generous paid time-off program, and a tuition reimbursement program, designed to support your professional growth.

When answering this question, highlight your methodical approach to reviewing project specifications and drawings. Discuss how you gather historical data, calculate material quantities, and incorporate potential risks, ensuring your estimates align with project goals. Share examples of successful estimates from your past experience to showcase your capability.

Be prepared to mention specific software you have used, such as HCSS Heavy Bid or other estimating tools. Explain how these tools have streamlined your estimation process, improved accuracy, and facilitated collaboration within teams. Describe any training or certifications you have that validate your proficiency.

Demonstrate your ability to manage time and prioritize by discussing methods you use, like setting deadlines, creating a task list, and allocating resources efficiently. Mention how you communicate with teams to manage expectations and any adaptive strategies you employ to remain flexible.

Provide a detailed account of a particularly challenging estimating project. Focus on the obstacles you faced, such as tight deadlines or unexpected changes, and explain how you overcame them through innovative solutions, teamwork, and effective communication. Outcome metrics that show your impact will strengthen your answer.

Discuss your systematic approach to achieving accuracy, such as double-checking figures, referencing historical data, and involving team members for cross-verification. Emphasize your attention to detail and the importance of thorough reviews, particularly in meeting project deadlines and reducing errors.

Highlight your leadership skills by sharing experiences where you managed or guided estimating teams. Discuss how you foster collaboration, mentor junior estimators, and ensure that deadlines are met. Mention any relevant leadership training or certifications that enhance your qualification.

Describe your flexibility in estimating techniques based on project type—commercial, residential, industrial, etc. Give examples of how you've tailored your strategies to address diverse project challenges and requirements, demonstrating your extensive industry knowledge.

Outline key performance indicators (KPIs) you monitor, such as bid hit rates, variance analysis, and cost-to-complete metrics. Discuss how these metrics have informed your estimating practices and improved overall project profitability and success.

Talk about your commitment to professional development through attending conferences, participating in training, and engaging with industry publications. Mention any professional organizations you're part of, as well as how you leverage networking opportunities to stay informed about advancements in estimating and construction.

Reflect on the challenges you've faced in your career, such as managing tight timelines, communicating effectively with diverse stakeholders, or navigating the complexities of large projects. Emphasize your strategies for overcoming these challenges while maintaining a positive outlook and focus on delivering quality results.