Senior Estimator - Commercial Constrction

About Millis Development & Construction Millis Development & Construction is a Houston-based commercial GC specializing in complex, site-driven projects across private development and public markets. Our portfolio includes master-planned community amenities, infrastructure, parks, and commercial facilities. We lead preconstruction with discipline and urgency—building accurate, defensible budgets that protect margin and set projects up for operational success. Our team works closely with developers, civil engineers, and landscape architects to execute high-impact projects throughout the region. Millis Development & Construction is a Houston-based commercial construction and development firm delivering high-quality projects through disciplined execution, strong trade relationships, and a hands-on leadership approach. We self-perform preconstruction with a focus on accuracy, speed, and accountability—setting our projects up for success long before ground is broken. Position Summary The Estimator is responsible for leading the full estimating process—from quantity takeoffs through final bid submission—on complex, site-driven commercial projects. This role drives preconstruction strategy, budget development, subcontractor engagement, and a disciplined handoff to operations. This is a mid-senior level position for an experienced estimator who can independently manage multiple active bids, build production-based estimates (with a strong understanding of concrete and site scopes), and protect company margin through clear scope definition and risk identification. preparing accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates for commercial construction projects across multiple asset types. This role plays a critical part in preconstruction strategy, budgeting, subcontractor engagement, and handoff to operations. This is a mid-senior level position suited for an estimator who can independently manage takeoffs and pricing, collaborate closely with operations and leadership, and contribute meaningfully to preconstruction decision-making. Key Responsibilities Estimating & Preconstruction Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates from conceptual through construction documents Develop and manage project budgets, cost models, and value engineering options Analyze drawings, specifications, and scopes to identify risks, gaps, and cost drivers Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier bids Maintain and leverage strong relationships with local Houston trade partners Assist inProvide conceptual estimating, GMP development, and hard-bid submissions Collaboration & Communication Work closely with project managers, superintendents, and leadership during preconstruction Participate in design meetings, scope reviews, and pricing strategy discussions Support smooth handoff from preconstruction to project execution Clearly communicate assumptions, exclusions, and risk areas Cost Control & Data Management Maintain historical cost data and estimating benchmarks Support continuous improvement of estimating processes and tools Assist in post-bid reviews and cost feedback loops with operations Qualifications Required 5-107+ years of experience in commercial GC construction estimating Demonstrated ability to independently lead full-cycle estimates from takeoff through award Strong experience in concrete, sitework, utilities, and outdoor scopes Understanding of subcontractor self-perform vs. buyout strategies Strong knowledge of commercial construction means and methods Proven experience with hard bids, negotiated work, and GMP projects Ability to read and interpret construction documents independently Experience working with subcontractors and suppliers in the Houston market Proficiency in estimating software and Excel (e.g., PlanSwift, Bluebeam, HeavyBid, Procore, Sage, or similar) Preferred Experience working for a GC that also performs development work Experience estimating site-driven, outdoor, or amenity-focused projects Familiarity working alongside landscape architects or civil engineers Background estimating projects such as retail, office, industrial, medical, or mixed-useDesign Build and/or CMAR experience Ability to contribute to conceptual and schematic-level budgets Strong organizational skills and attention to detail What Success Looks Like in This Role Accurate, defensible estimates with minimal post-award surprises Strong buy-in from operations due to clear scopes and assumptions Trusted relationships with subcontractors and internal teams Consistent contribution to winning profitable work To Be Considered… Complete our 2-part survey at the following link: https://go.cultureindex.com/p/evotbjl1pd0lib

YgHKVd Pay:

$85,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): How many years of experience do you have working within the design-build commercial construction industry?

Experience:

Construction estimating: 5 years (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Missouri City, TX 77489 (Required)

Work Location:

In person