Senior Estimator
Location: Greater Chicago Area (On-Site)
Job Type: Full-Time
Industry: Construction / Manufacturing
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to join our team in the Greater Chicago Area. This is a hands-on role responsible for reviewing project plans, specifications, and customer requirements to develop accurate material takeoffs and cost estimates for wire mesh partition systems and related products.
The Senior Estimator will work closely with Sales, Engineering, Production, General Contractors, vendors, and customers to ensure competitive, accurate, and profitable bids. The ideal candidate has strong preconstruction experience, exceptional quantity takeoff skills, and a proven ability to manage multiple bids in a fast-paced environment.
What You'll Do
- Review construction drawings, specifications, and project requirements.
- Prepare accurate cost estimates, budgets, and bid proposals.
- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs using Bluebeam and other estimating tools.
- Coordinate with internal teams including Sales, Engineering, and Manufacturing to define project scope and pricing.
- Manage all phases of the preconstruction and estimating process.
- Communicate with General Contractors, customers, subcontractors, and vendors to obtain pricing and clarify project requirements.
- Analyze labor, material, and equipment costs to support competitive bidding strategies.
- Maintain and update estimating databases, pricing sheets, and historical cost information.
- Ensure all estimates align with project schedules, customer expectations, and company profitability goals.
- Track estimates throughout the project lifecycle and assist with bid follow-up activities.
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of estimating experience in construction, manufacturing, industrial products, or a related industry.
- Experience managing multiple projects through the preconstruction and bidding process.
- Strong experience performing quantity takeoffs, preferably using Bluebeam or similar software.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, blueprints, and shop drawings.
- Proficiency with estimating software, spreadsheets, and Microsoft Office applications.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with General Contractors, customers, vendors, and internal teams.
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
Preferred Qualifications
- Data center project experience.
- Experience with metal fabrication, wire mesh systems, construction specialties, or industrial products.
- Familiarity with manufacturing environments and engineered products.
- Experience supporting commercial or industrial construction projects.
Top 3 Must-Have Skills
✅ Quantity takeoffs and estimating experience, preferably utilizing Bluebeam and supporting data center projects
✅ Experience managing all phases of preconstruction and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders
✅ Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, particularly with General Contractors
Why Join Us?
- Stable and growing company
- Collaborative, team-oriented environment
- Opportunity to work on complex commercial and industrial projects
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Direct impact on project success and company growth
Apply today if you're a detail-oriented estimator with strong preconstruction expertise and a passion for delivering accurate, competitive project estimates.