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Job Description
Construction Estimator
CHARLESTOWN LANDSCAPING LLC.
Charleston, SC Job Details Full-time $57,778.62 - $85,000.00 a year 21 hours ago Benefits Paid time off Qualifications Project team coordination Estimating material requirements from blueprints Cost management Communication with suppliers Cost accounting analysis Sourcing Construction specifications Sales proposal development Construction risk assessment Supplier identification Spreadsheets Labor cost analysis Mid-level Concrete work Analysis skills Bidding project phase Construction plans Math Proposal writing Construction drawing review Industry trends Drainage systems Estimating construction project budgets Organizational skills Irrigation systems Cost estimate preparation Profitability analysis Market-based pricing Hardscaping construction projects Material cost estimating Full Job Description Landscape Construction Estimator We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Landscape Construction Estimator to join our team. This role is responsible for accurately pricing and preparing bids for residential and commercial landscape construction projects, including hardscape, landscape installation, irrigation, drainage, and site development. The ideal candidate understands field construction methods, material takeoffs, labor production rates, and can translate construction plans into accurate, competitive, and profitable estimates. Position Overview The Estimator plays a key role in project success by analyzing plans, site conditions, and scope requirements to develop detailed cost proposals. This position works closely with project managers, designers, suppliers, and field crews to ensure estimates reflect real-world production and execution. Key Responsibilities Estimating & Takeoffs Review landscape, civil, and architectural plans for scope interpretation Perform accurate quantity takeoffs for materials, labor, and equipment Estimate hardscape elements (pavers, patios, retaining walls, concrete, stonework) Estimate landscape installation (plants, trees, sod, mulch, soil amendments) Estimate irrigation systems (mainlines, valves, heads, controllers, zoning) Estimate drainage systems (French drains, catch basins, grading corrections) Develop detailed line-item cost breakdowns and full project budgets Pricing & Cost Analysis Build labor production rates based on field performance Source material pricing from vendors and suppliers Track market pricing trends for hardscape and landscape materials Apply overhead, profit margins, and contingency allowances appropriately Identify cost risks, access challenges, and site-specific conditions Project Coordination Collaborate with project managers and field supervisors to validate means & methods Conduct site visits when required to verify conditions and scope Coordinate with designers, architects, and builders for clarifications Support value engineering efforts to maintain budget targets Proposal Development Prepare professional bids, proposals, and scope letters Clearly define inclusions, exclusions, and assumptions Present pricing in a clear, client-ready format Participate in bid reviews and internal pricing meetings Systems & Reporting Maintain estimating databases, cost libraries, and production rates Track historical job costs to improve future estimates Use estimating software, spreadsheets, and takeoff tools efficiently Maintain organized records of bids, revisions, and awarded projects Qualifications Experience in landscape construction, hardscape installation, or site work estimating Strong understanding of construction methods (grading, drainage, pavers, irrigation, planting) Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications Proficiency with Excel and estimating software (or willingness to learn) Strong math, analytical, and organizational skills Excellent communication and attention to detail Preferred Experience 3-5+ years in landscape construction or estimating role Background in hardscape installation (pavers, retaining walls, concrete work) Familiarity with irrigation systems and drainage design Experience working with high-end residential or commercial landscape projects Knowledge of production-based estimating (crew rates, units/hour, etc.) Key Traits for Success Accurate and detail-focused Strong understanding of field operations Ability to balance speed and precision in bidding Business-minded (profitability awareness, not just cost input) Strong communicator with field and office teams Growth Opportunity This role can grow into:
