Construction Project Estimator

At D+H Construction, we build innovative projects, lasting client relationships, and strong careers for our team. Founded in 1981, we are a mid-sized, established general contractor. Our work includes renovation of multi-family affordable housing for top nonprofit developers in the Bay Area.

A D+H Construction Project Estimator is a skilled professional with at least five years of experience and a proven track record in preparing accurate, competitive estimates for residential affordable housing or multi-family projects. As a key member of our preconstruction team, you will help ensure project success from concept through completion by:

Job Description

• 
  Prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates for
  all phases of construction, including materials, labor, equipment, and
  subcontractor costs.
  Review and interpret project plans, blueprints,
  and specifications to determine scope and requirements; perform
  constructability reviews and provide feedback to optimize project design.
• 
  Conduct comprehensive quantity take-offs and
  develop complete scopes of work for all trades, ensuring clarity for budgeting
  and bidding.
• Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate subcontractor
  and supplier bids; build and maintain strong relationships to enhance bid
  competitiveness.
• Prepare thorough bid leveling sheets, resolve
  scope gaps, and coordinate trade packages to ensure comprehensive project
  coverage.
• Collaborate with project managers, architects,
  engineers, and clients to clarify requirements, resolve discrepancies, and
  serve as a primary point of contact during preconstruction as needed
• Identify and develop value engineering
  opportunities to improve project value and reduce costs.
• Assist with final budget assembly and Guaranteed
  Maximum Price (GMP) bids; support client presentations and respond to
  questions.
• Reconcile current estimates against previous
  budgets, identify variances, and recommend corrective actions.
• Stay current with market trends, pricing
  fluctuations, local building codes/regulations, and maintain historical cost
  data and unit pricing databases.
• Support project handoff and ongoing cost control
  during construction phases; perform other duties as assigned to support the
  estimating and preconstruction team.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the
  estimating and preconstruction team.

Position Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of construction estimating experience, preferably with a general
  contractor or developer.
• Strong experience with affordable housing and/or multi-family
  residential projects is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., Timberline, Procore,
  Bluebeam, Excel, or similar).
• Exceptional analytical and mathematical skills; meticulous
  attention to detail.
• Ability to read and interpret construction documents, plans, and
  specifications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong negotiation, organizational, and time-management
  abilities.
• Familiarity with local, state, and federal affordable housing
  regulations.
• Knowledge of sustainable building practices and cost
  implications.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering,
  Architecture, or related field preferred but not required (equivalent
  experience will be considered).

Physical
Requirements:

• Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a desk and
  using a computer.
• Visual acuity to read documents and operate computer screens
  accurately.
• Manual dexterity for operating office equipment and handling
  documents.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 15 pounds occasionally (e.g.,
  files, office supplies).
• Occasional walking and climbing stairs during site visits; must
  be able to navigate construction environments safely.
• Exposure to outdoor conditions and the ability to wear personal
  protective equipment (e.g., steel-toe shoes, gloves, hard hats) while on job
  sites.