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Estimator - Graduate/Entry Level
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What they do
An Estimator provides cost estimates for a project, based on an evaluation of the materials, labor, time and equipment needed to complete the project. May specialize in many aspects of construction or in manufacturing and design industries.
$74,768 / year median in Illinois
+8% projected growth
Job Description
Estimator - Graduate/Entry Level at BOWA Construction Estimator - Graduate/Entry Level at BOWA Construction in Bensenville, Illinois Posted in about 12 hours ago.
Type:
full-time
COMPANY OVERVIEW
Bowa Construction is a General Contractor and Construction Management firm built on the core principles of family, honesty, discipline, and quality. With a team of industry experts experienced in general contracting, design-build, and construction management, we deliver every project with passion and purpose. We are driven by the long-term impact our work has on the communities we serve.
ROLE OVERVIEW
Support the Senior Estimator and estimating team in preparing accurate and competitive estimates for a variety of construction projects. This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career professional looking to develop their skills in construction estimating, preconstruction, subcontractor coordination, and project delivery.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Support the Senior Estimator in managing multiple estimates and projects in a fast-paced estimating department. Assist with developing detailed estimates for all trades at various stages of design. Assist with preparing detailed and accurate scopes of work for subcontractors and suppliers. Assist with reviewing drawings, specifications, scopes of work, and other contract documents to identify estimating requirements. Assist with receiving, organizing, and distributing drawings, specifications, addenda, and other project documents. Assist with coordinating subcontractor bids and maintaining bidder lists. Follow up with subcontractors to confirm bidding status and obtain complete and competitive proposals. Assist with reviewing subcontractor bids for completeness and identifying scope gaps, overlaps, and exclusions. Assist with bid leveling and comparison of subcontractor proposals. Assist with developing general conditions and general requirements. Support the estimating team with quantity takeoffs, pricing, and cost analysis. Assist with value engineering, alternates, options, and pricing studies as required. Assist with reviewing design documents for completeness and identifying missing information or items requiring clarification. Participate in pre-bid meetings, subcontractor site visits, and project walk-throughs. Assist with preparing estimates and presentations for review by the Senior/Chief Estimator and Operations team. Assist with internal estimating and project review meetings. Support the estimating team in developing project schedules, site logistics, and other preconstruction requirements. Assist with risk identification and documentation during the estimating process. Support the preparation and handover of projects from estimating to the operations team. Develop familiarity with subcontractors, suppliers, clients, and other industry partners. Build strong working relationships with subcontractors and internal project teams. Review completed work with Senior Estimators and incorporate feedback to improve estimating accuracy. Learn and apply company estimating procedures, standards, and best practices. Maintain organized and accurate estimating files and documentation. Participate in training and professional development to progress toward an Estimator role.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
BS or MS degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying or similar or equivalent experience. 0-2 years of construction, estimating, engineering, or related industry experience. Recent graduates with relevant education, internships, co-op experience, or construction experience are encouraged to apply. Basic to intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Excel; experience with Building Connected, OST, Assemble, Bluebeam, or similar software is preferred. Ability to read and understand construction drawings, specifications, scopes of work, and contract documents. Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Interest in developing a career in construction estimating and preconstruction. Ability to learn how to develop cost estimates for multiple trades and levels of design. Ability to learn subcontractor bid solicitation, scope review, and bid leveling. Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Ability to manage priorities and meet deadlines while working on multiple projects. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Proactive, collaborative, and solution-oriented mindset. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and take direction from Senior Estimators and project leadership. Willingness and ability to learn new technology, estimating tools, and processes. Knowledge of the Chicago construction market is preferred but not required. CPE, MRICS, or other relevant professional certification is a plus but not required.
BENEFITS
Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance - 70% Employer contribution & Employee HSA contribution
• Performance Based Bonuses - % of base salary Parental Leave Basic Life and AD&D Insurance Short Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance 401(k) with company match Paid Vacation, Sick Time, & Holidays Employee Assistance Program (advocates to help manage and control stress levels and everyday life for you and/or your family)