We are seeking an experienced Commercial Interior Construction Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates and competitive bids for commercial interior construction projects. The ideal candidate will have direct estimating experience with drywall, metal framing, acoustical ceilings, flooring, or similar interior finish trades.
This role oversees the full estimating process, from initial plan review and quantity takeoffs through subcontractor pricing, cost analysis, and final bid submission. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of interior construction methods, and the ability to manage multiple bids are essential.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work on commercial interior construction projects.
- Review blueprints, architectural drawings, specifications, contracts, addenda, and bid revisions to establish project scope and quantities.
- Perform accurate quantity takeoffs and calculate material requirements, installation costs, labor projections, and equipment expenses.
- Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals, verifying pricing accuracy and confirming scope coverage.
- Identify missing scope items, conflicting responsibilities, exclusions, and constructability concerns before bid submission.
- Develop competitive pricing based on project requirements, current market rates, historical cost data, and established estimating practices.
- Prepare comprehensive bid packages with itemized costs, scope definitions, assumptions, exclusions, and alternate options.
- Identify cost-saving materials and installation methods while maintaining required quality standards and project specifications.
- Coordinate with project managers, field supervisors, general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients to clarify scope and resolve pricing questions.
- Maintain accurate estimating records, vendor pricing information, bid logs, and cost databases.
- Monitor changes in labor rates, material costs, subcontractor pricing, and market conditions to maintain competitive estimates.
- Prepare preliminary budgets, negotiated estimates, change-order pricing, and revised proposals as project requirements evolve.
- Develop cost summaries and scope documentation for projects awarded to the construction team.
- Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and internal bid reviews to validate scope, pricing, and project requirements.
- Manage multiple estimates simultaneously while meeting deadlines and maintaining accuracy.
- Identify opportunities to improve estimating procedures, cost-tracking methods, and pricing practices to strengthen consistency and efficiency.
Requirements
- Minimum of 3 years of estimating experience in commercial interior construction.
- Direct estimating experience with commercial drywall, metal framing, acoustical ceilings, flooring, or related interior finish trades is required.
- Strong knowledge of interior construction materials, installation methods, trade sequencing, and project costs.
- Ability to read and interpret architectural plans, specifications, contracts, addenda, and other bid documents.
- Demonstrated experience performing quantity takeoffs and preparing detailed commercial construction bids.
- Ability to evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals and identify pricing discrepancies, scope gaps, and exclusions.
- Proficiency with Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, PlanSwift, or comparable estimating software.
- Understanding of construction labor rates, material pricing, equipment expenses, and subcontractor costs.
- Strong mathematical, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills when working with internal teams, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.
- Excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines.
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Associate's or bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Paid time off and company holidays.
- Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
- Steady pipeline of commercial interior construction projects.
- Exposure to a variety of drywall, metal framing, acoustical ceiling, flooring, and interior finish projects.
- Collaborative team environment.
- Long-term career growth opportunities.