Renovation & Tenant Improvement Projects Ferlito Group | Metro Detroit, Michigan Position Summary Ferlito Group is seeking an experienced Commercial Construction Estimator to join our construction team. This position is responsible for developing accurate and comprehensive estimates for commercial renovation, remodeling, tenant improvement, and building improvement projects. Experience developing estimates for design/build projects is a plus. The ideal candidate has strong experience estimating renovation projects in occupied or existing buildings, understands the challenges associated with existing conditions, and can identify scope gaps, constructability issues, and potential project risks before a proposal is submitted. The Estimator will work closely with Ferlito Group leadership, project management and field operations teams, subcontractors, vendors, architects, owners, and other external stakeholders to develop estimates that accurately reflect project scope, schedule, site conditions, logistics, and anticipated construction costs. Key Responsibilities Estimating & Preconstruction Review construction drawings, specifications, addenda, bid documents, and other project information. Develop detailed estimates for commercial renovation, remodeling, and tenant improvement projects. Obtain and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing. Prepare detailed bid solicitations/RFPs and scope-of-work documents for subcontractors. Analyze subcontractor proposals for completeness, exclusions, qualifications, and scope gaps. Develop material, labor, equipment, subcontractor, and general conditions costs. Prepare conceptual, preliminary, and final estimates as project documents develop. Identify cost-saving opportunities and potential value-engineering alternatives. Maintain organized and auditable estimating documentation. Renovation-Specific Responsibilities Evaluate existing building conditions and identify potential construction risks. Review available existing-condition drawings, surveys, reports, photographs, and other documentation. Participate in and document pre-bid site visits. Identify discrepancies between existing conditions and design documents. Evaluate the cost impact of working in occupied buildings. Evaluate phasing, shutdowns, utilities and protection, access restrictions, and other logistical requirements. Identify potential hazardous-material, structural, MEP, or code-related concerns that may affect project cost. Develop appropriate allowances and contingencies for uncertain existing conditions. Coordinate with Ferlito Group's project management and field operations teams to ensure estimates reflect realistic means, methods, sequencing, and project logistics. Subcontractor & Vendor Management Develop subcontractor bid lists appropriate to each project. Solicit competitive bids from qualified subcontractors and suppliers. Maintain professional relationships with subcontractors and vendors. Follow up on outstanding bids and clarify scope discrepancies. Level subcontractor proposals to ensure accurate apples-to-apples comparisons. Negotiate pricing, exclusions, alternates, and scope coverage when appropriate. Maintain current knowledge of subcontractor capabilities and market pricing. Help maintain and expand Ferlito Group's network of qualified subcontractors and vendors. Proposal Development Prepare complete and accurate bid proposals with supporting documents and exhibits. Assist Ferlito Group leadership in evaluating project profitability and risk. Participate in bid reviews and estimate turnover meetings. Ensure estimates and proposals are complete, accurate, and submitted on time. Clearly document assumptions, exclusions, allowances, alternates, and qualifications within each estimate. Project Handoff Conduct a thorough turnover of awarded projects to Ferlito Group's project management and field operations teams. Explain estimate assumptions, subcontractor scopes, allowances, alternates, and identified risks. Provide supporting takeoffs, subcontractor proposals, and estimating documentation. Identify potential cost and schedule issues that should be addressed during project planning. Assist the project team with estimating-related questions during preconstruction and early project execution. Support a smooth transition from estimating and preconstruction into active construction. Required Qualifications Must be proficient in Procore project management software. 5+ years of commercial construction estimating experience, with experience in renovation and tenant improvement projects. Strong understanding of commercial construction means, methods, sequencing, and materials. Demonstrated ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, and MEP drawings. Experience obtaining, reviewing, and evaluating subcontractor and supplier proposals. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills. Ability to manage multiple estimates, projects, and deadlines simultaneously. Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with project teams. Degree or technical education in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a related field is beneficial but not required.
Core Competencies Construction Knowledge:
Strong practical understanding of commercial construction, renovation, and tenant improvement projects.
Estimating Accuracy:
Ability to produce thorough, competitive, and defensible estimates while minimizing scope gaps and unforeseen cost exposure.
Existing-Condition Analysis:
Ability to recognize and account for the additional risks and uncertainties associated with renovating existing buildings. Attention to
Detail:
Ability to identify discrepancies, omissions, conflicts, and potential cost exposures within construction documents and subcontractor proposals.
Communication:
Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with subcontractors, vendors, architects, owners, project managers, field teams, and company leadership.
Organization:
Ability to effectively manage multiple projects, bids, documents, deadlines, and subcontractor proposals simultaneously.
Problem Solving:
Ability to identify potential problems before construction begins and develop practical cost and constructability solutions.
Commercial Awareness:
Understanding of project profitability, risk allocation, competitive bidding, and current construction market conditions. What Ferlito Group Offers This position provides the opportunity to be involved in a variety of commercial construction projects throughout Metro Detroit and to work closely with an integrated team across construction, development, and property management. The Commercial Construction Estimator will have a direct role in helping Ferlito Group evaluate opportunities, develop competitive proposals, identify project risks, and successfully transition awarded work into construction.
Pay:
$70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance