Construction Estimator

The Construction Estimator is a key member of our preconstruction team, primarily responsible for the successful creation and preparation of accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial construction projects related to a completed bid package. The Estimator will mentally build the project, pull the necessary components together and establish, in a timely and accurate manner, the anticipated cost of a project. At Burkey, precision matters. Our Estimator is detailed in their takeoff, meticulous in their descoping of trade partners and estimate completion, as well as proactive in client needs and expectations as we participate in the preconstruction process. Our ideal candidate is an experienced, dynamic, high-energy, professional with a strong understanding of the company's culture, a thorough understanding of the commercial construction industry and has a proven track record. They will thrive on accuracy, collaboration, and continuous improvement. This position is integral to both our construction management and general contracting operations. D uties &

Responsibilities:

Analyze and develop project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare comprehensive cost estimates, which are crucial, for the successful completion of various types of construction projects. Has the knowledge of construction techniques, materials, and equipment to estimate the time and resources required to complete a project. Maintain current knowledge of market conditions, and material pricing trends. Carefully analyze, coordinate and compare bid proposals, scopes and detailed cost reports. Foster and maintain strong relationships with clients, architects, engineers, subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers. Establish, maintain, and develop those that are qualified to bid the projects. Use strategies to continuously expand the list and find new qualified bidders. Meticulously review subcontractor proposals to assure they meet project criteria. Collaborate with Burkey project managers, assistant project managers, as well as engineers, architects, subcontractors, and clients to ensure all aspects of the project are thoroughly evaluated and accounted for, from conceptual budgeting through final bid submission, ensuring the proposed budget aligns with the project's scope and timelines. Request (through phone calls and any other means necessary), analyze, and negotiate bids from subcontractors and suppliers, ensuring competitive pricing and scope coverage. Knowledge of bidding format between design build versus competitive bidding and execution of the different strategies for the win. Conduct detailed quantity takeoffs and create accurate material, labor, and equipment cost breakdowns. Possess the ability to assemble a comprehensive budget estimate with limited project design information and minimal subcontractor input. Develop, and maintain estimating computer systems (i.e., bidding software) and excel programs. Organize, properly document, and update the unit cost information on a timely basis so they can be used to analyze bid numbers and to perform in-house estimating. Maintain the database of cost data and market prices for future estimates. Develop and maintain detailed project budget estimates, value engineering options, and cost-saving recommendations. Update estimates based on the project changes and new information. Carefully track, organize and distribute the changes to the bidders and Burkey team. Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project walk-throughs to assess complexities, risks, and constructability. (Go/No-Go Meetings, Bid Kickoff Meetings, Interview Prep Meetings, etc.) Work closely with the VP of Operations, project management, and field operations teams to ensure a seamless transition from preconstruction to execution. Work closely with the VP of Preconstruction and SVP of Estimating in continuing to update and develop the department processes, strategies, workloads, and to review current bid schedules. Prepare and present bid proposals, in conjunction with pursuit team, clarifications, and qualifications to clients and internal stakeholders. Maintain and update a template for qualifications and exclusions. Analyze and identify the project risks during the bid phase and create a strategy to minimize risk; i.e. material cost fluctuations, bad weather, or logistical delays. Ensure that the estimates comply with company and industry standards. Communicate insurance and bonding bid requirements to the Contracts Administrator in a timely fashion. Contribute to the training and development of the estimating team, as it grows. When requested by a VP, assist in project negotiations and contract finalization. Performs other duties as assigned.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or similar related field required. Equivalent experience may be considered. Minimum of seven to ten years experience for commercial construction projects within a construction management or general contracting firm. Projects should range from one million up to sixty million in cost.

Required Skills/Abilities:

Must possess strong leadership skills, while embracing a team concept, with the ability to collaborate and work effectively with others, both internally and externally. Maintains strong relationship with subcontractors, trade partners, suppliers and/or vendors. Exceptional analytical, mathematical, and organizational skills. Attention to detail, commitment to accuracy, and ability to think outside the box. Strong understanding and knowledge of the construction industry, construction methods, materials, means, and familiarity with local building codes and regulations. Knowledge of subcontractor specialties and strength to accommodate the project requirements. Excellent negotiation, organization, verbal and written communication skills. In order to meet critical deadlines, has the ability to be highly efficient in time management with the ability to problem-solve, prioritize tasks and to delegate when appropriate. Mentor and manage the team's time to be able to submit the bid and other information in a timely fashion. Collaborate, and provide feedback, with preconstruction for a successful submission. Self-motivated, goal-oriented, ability to work independently and collaboratively, plan effectively, and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Excellent interpersonal skills, ethics, and cultural awareness. Must be proficient in blueprint reading, quantity take-off, and construction knowledge. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, or related software, with overall strong computer skills and comfort learning new technical systems, as needed. Experience with a variety of industry-specific software (i.e., Sage Estimating, ProEst, Excel or similar), tools, and methods to prepare, manage, and present estimates.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee sits, stands, uses hands, arms and fingers to perform routine tasks. Normal vision and hearing is required. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer, and operating other office equipment, are necessary. Must be able to access and navigate different departments at the Burkey facilities. This job requires travel using a car to visit jobsites, as well as hold various meetings in person. Burkey Construction is an equal opportunity employer.