Chief Estimator - Construction

Chief Estimator - Construction Balicore Construction Virginia Beach, VA Job Details Full-time 5 days ago Benefits Health savings account AD&D insurance Disability insurance Health insurance Dental insurance Flexible spending account Tuition reimbursement Paid time off Employee assistance program Vision insurance Opportunities for advancement Life insurance Qualifications Computer operation Construction subcontractor management Strategic management Construction negotiation Schematics Phone communication Outdoor work Construction schedule coordination Engineering Architecture Bachelor's degree in construction management Bachelor's degree in business Client relationship development Risk mitigation strategy implementation 8 years Bachelor's degree in architecture Team development Business development Driver's License Bidding project phase Proposal writing Construction budget management Bachelor's degree Continuous improvement Driving Decision making Construction team management Mentoring Competitive bidding Estimating construction project budgets Contracts Computer skills Business planning Procurement contract negotiation Commercial building projects Senior level Business Leadership Construction Management Communication skills Project stakeholder communication Project scheduling Stakeholder relationship building Senior leadership Client interaction via phone calls Stakeholder management Working on construction estimation projects Full Job Description Balicore is a mid-sized general contractor serving the Mid-Atlantic region. We are seeking an accomplished senior leader to serve as Chief Estimator and trusted strategic partner to the Chief Operating Officer. This leadership role extends beyond project delivery, with responsibility of establishing and overseeing Balicore's bidding and estimating initiatives while driving operational excellence, leadership culture, and long-term client strategy across the organization. The ideal candidate is a senior-level construction leader with a proven track record managing high-value projects, capable of building high-performing teams, and partnering with senior leadership to drive growth, performance, and organizational maturity. Position Type This is not a Remote position. This position operates in an in-person work environment. Reports to Balicore's COO Responsibilities Overseeing all estimating functions, guiding project feasibility, managing budgets, hard bidding, negotiating with trade partners, procurement duties and collaborating with clients and internal teams to ensure successful project delivery from concept through construction start Serve as a strategic partner to the COO, supporting operational leadership, safety culture, business planning, and organizational performance. Provide executive oversight across major projects to ensure excellence in safety, quality, schedule, financial outcomes, and client satisfaction. The Project Executive will guide and mentor the project management and field leadership teams, ensuring alignment with Balicore culture, values, and project objectives Drive consistency in operational standards, best practices, and accountability across project teams. Collaborate with clients, design partners, and internal stakeholders to strengthen long-term relationships and repeat business. Championing a culture of excellence, integrity, innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Support company growth initiatives through client development, strategic pursuits, and leadership presence in the marketplace. Oversee all preconstruction activities including budgeting, scheduling, value engineering, and constructability reviews Collaborate with clients, architects, engineers, and subcontractors during early project phases Lead project pursuit efforts including proposals, presentations, and interviews Prepare and review conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimates Ensure accuracy of cost data, labor projections, and material pricing Manage bid processes, subcontractor outreach, and scope analysis Analyze project risks and develop mitigation strategies Other duties as assigned Education / Years of Experience Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year institution, preferably in Architecture, Building Construction, Construction Management, Engineering, or Business; equivalent industry experience may be considered. Minimum 8-10 years of construction experience. Experience with large-scale commercial projects. Experience and ability to grow and develop a functioning estimating team/department. Contract negotiation experience. Skills Established subcontractor and supplier network Deep understanding of the preconstruction process and delivery methods. Sound fundamental understanding of public and private contract types Deep understanding of the hard bidding process Deep understanding of construction delivery methods, CM at Risk, , Design-Build, and Design-Bid-Build delivery methods. Senior level communication, problem solver, leadership presence, sound soft communication skills, and stakeholder management skills.

Licensure / Certification

/ Credentials Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must be able to provide documentation verifying employment eligibility. Candidates must hold a valid driver's license. Availability Full time (40 hours) : Monday - Friday Location / Commuting /

Travel:

Candidates must currently reside within commuting distance of the Hampton Roads region, including Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, Newport News, or Portsmouth. Candidates are responsible for their own transportation to and from work locations. This role requires regular travel to project and job sites as part of normal job responsibilities. Local candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Candidates slightly outside the described region who are comfortable with an extended commute are welcome to apply. Essential Physical Functions Ability to work primarily in an office environment while performing computer-based tasks for extended periods of time, including reviewing estimates, schedules, contracts, and project documentation. Ability to use a computer, keyboard, and multiple digital platforms for prolonged periods while preparing estimates, reviewing drawings, and conducting virtual meetings. Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and through electronic communication with clients, project teams, subcontractors, and senior leadership. Ability to travel to and access active construction sites, client locations, and industry meetings as required. Ability to walk, stand, and move throughout construction sites for extended periods during site visits, project reviews, and preconstruction evaluations. Ability to climb stairs, ladders, or navigate uneven terrain and active construction environments when necessary. Ability to occasionally bend, kneel, crouch, or reach while reviewing site conditions, inspecting work areas, or participating in project walkthroughs. Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and rain, during site visits or project-related activities. Ability to safely navigate construction environments that may include noise, dust, moving equipment, and other construction-related hazards. Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety glasses, high-visibility vests, and protective footwear while on construction sites. Ability to occasionally lift or carry plans, samples, presentation materials, or equipment weighing up to 20-30 pounds. Ability to maintain focus, analytical attention, and decision-making capability in a fast-paced professional environment with multiple concurrent priorities. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

What We Offer:

Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunities for professional development and career advancement. A collaborative and supportive work environment. Medical Insurance (3 plans to choose from) Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Company paid life insurance Supplemental voluntary life insurance (self, spouse, child and AD&D) Accident and Critical Illness insurance Company paid Short Term Disability and Long-Term Disability insurance Legal Resources Benefits Flexible Spending Account Health Savings Account Paid time off Tuition Reimbursement Employee Assistance Program We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.