Description

The Senior Estimator – Skilled Trades is a strategic, hands‑on leader responsible for creating accurate, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates for complex skilled‑trade construction projects. This role blends advanced technical estimating expertise with business acumen, cross‑functional collaboration, and mentorship of junior estimators to support profitable growth, risk management, and successful project execution from pre‑bid through turnover.

In this position, the estimator leads the development of detailed full‑scope estimates, analyzes drawings, specifications, and contracts to uncover scope requirements and cost drivers, and creates conceptual, budgetary, design‑assist, and GMP estimates for various project phases. They establish labor productivity assumptions, validate estimates through benchmarking and collaboration with operations, and serve as a subject‑matter expert in one or more skilled trades, evaluating means‑and‑methods, sequencing, prefabrication opportunities, and logistical constraints.

The role also involves participation in bid/no‑bid decisions, providing strategic pricing recommendations, quantifying risks and opportunities, and preparing clear scope narratives and assumptions. Collaboration with project managers, superintendents, safety, finance, vendors, and subcontractors ensures estimates align with execution plans and facilitates a smooth handoff to operations.

• Lead preparation of full‑scope cost estimates for skilled‑trade construction projects.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and contracts to identify scope, constructability, and cost drivers.
• Develop conceptual, budgetary, design‑assist, and GMP estimates across project phases.
• Establish labor productivity assumptions using historical data and market conditions.
• Validate estimates through benchmarking and collaboration with operations and field leadership.
• Serve as subject‑matter expert in mechanical piping, HVAC, plumbing, industrial piping, fabrication, or specialty systems.
• Evaluate means‑and‑methods, sequencing, prefabrication opportunities, and logistical constraints.
• Identify constructability issues and propose cost‑effective alternatives.
• Participate in bid/no‑bid reviews and provide strategic pricing recommendations.
• Quantify project risks, propose mitigation strategies, and prepare clear scope narratives.
• Coordinate with vendors and subcontractors to obtain competitive pricing and validate scope.
• Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, safety, and finance teams to align estimates with execution plans.
• Mentor junior estimators and transfer knowledge within the estimating team.

Requirements

Candidates must have 8–12 years of estimating experience in skilled‑trade construction, with a proven record on large‑scale projects that have significant labor components. Required technical skills include advanced proficiency with estimating software such as Trimble, Accubid, Autobid, or Sage, and the ability to read construction drawings and specifications. Strong analytical, problem‑solving, decision‑making, and communication abilities, as well as leadership and mentorship capabilities, are essential.

A bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field is preferred, though equivalent trade and estimating experience is acceptable. TCE is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and complies with all federal employment verification requirements.

• Minimum 8–12 years of skilled‑trade estimating experience on large‑scale projects.
• Advanced proficiency with estimating software such as Trimble, Accubid, Autobid, or Sage.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities with focus on margin protection.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for presenting estimates to leadership and clients.

Benefits

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance