Lead Estimator

General Contractor (GC) Lead Estimator

Location: Hybrid (Detroit, MI Preferred) | Remote Considered
Job Type: Full-Time | Exempt

Compensation: $120,000-$130,000 (based on experience)

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced General Contractor (GC) Lead Estimator to manage the full estimating process—from quantity takeoffs and subcontractor solicitation through bid submission, award, and buyout support. The ideal candidate has strong commercial estimating experience, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to produce accurate, competitive estimates while collaborating with project teams and trade partners.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Preconstruction

• Prepare hard-bid and negotiated GMP estimates for commercial construction projects.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs across all CSI divisions using industry-standard estimating software.
• Develop complete cost estimates, bid packages, and subcontractor solicitations.
• Analyze and level subcontractor proposals, identifying scope gaps, exclusions, and pricing discrepancies.
• Coordinate bid-day activities and present final estimates to leadership.

Subcontractor Management

• Build and maintain relationships with qualified subcontractors and suppliers.
• Solicit competitive pricing and evaluate subcontractor qualifications, safety performance, and financial stability.
• Support supplier diversity initiatives where applicable.

Project Buyout & Support

• Assist with subcontractor buyout and scope clarification after award.
• Prepare buyout reconciliation reports.
• Support project teams with RFI pricing, change orders, and scope interpretation during early construction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of commercial General Contractor estimating experience.
• Proven success managing the complete bid process.
• Experience estimating commercial projects ranging from $5 million to $50 million+.
• Experience in multiple sectors such as office, healthcare, education, industrial, retail, or civic construction.

Technical Skills

Experience with industry-standard tools such as:

• Bluebeam Revu
• Sage Estimating (or comparable estimating software)
• Electronic quantity takeoff software
• Microsoft Office 365 (advanced Excel preferred)
• BuildingConnected or similar bid management platforms

Experience with Microsoft Copilot or other AI productivity tools is a plus.

Work Environment

• Hybrid work environment with remote flexibility for the right candidate.
• Occasional travel to project sites and client meetings.
• Flexibility to support active bid deadlines as needed.