Construction Estimator

The Construction Estimator develops accurate and timely conceptual and detailed cost estimates for commercial construction projects. This role collaborates closely with preconstruction managers, project managers, and fellow estimators to support budgeting, bidding, and design development. The Construction Estimator evaluates drawings and specifications, performs detailed quantity take-offs, and engages subcontractors to ensure competitive pricing and alignment of scope, schedule, and budget throughout the project lifecycle.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with preconstruction managers, project managers, and other estimators to develop accurate and timely conceptual and detailed construction estimates.
Perform comprehensive quantity take-offs for all construction systems and summarize data for comparison, evaluation, and decision-making.
Prepare cost estimates for budgeting and bidding events, ensuring estimates reflect current market conditions and project requirements.
Solicit, review, and analyze subcontractor and supplier pricing for budgeting and competitive bids.
Work with the project team to maintain alignment between project scope, schedule, and budget as the design evolves.
Scope, evaluate, and recommend subcontractors based on best value, qualifications, and specific project needs.
Create, update, and monitor project estimates as project scope is refined and design information becomes more detailed.
Actively participate in subcontractor outreach and engagement to build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing trade partners.
Interpret and review blueprints, drawings, and specifications to ensure accurate and complete estimates.
Use estimating software and related tools to prepare, document, and present estimates in a clear and organized format.
Communicate proactively with internal teams and external partners to clarify assumptions, address questions, and resolve estimating issues.
Support preconstruction and project teams with cost comparisons, value analysis, and recommendations to optimize project value and constructability.

Essential Skills

Demonstrated experience in construction estimating for commercial construction projects.
Strong knowledge of construction means and methods, building types, and procurement methods.
Understanding of design management processes and the ability to anticipate and communicate the impact of design changes on project budgets.
Proficiency with CSI and Uniformat II work breakdown structures and their application in estimating.
Ability to perform thoughtful and accurate quantity take-offs for all major construction systems.
Experience preparing cost estimates for preconstruction, budgeting, and competitive bidding.
Proficiency with DESTINI Estimator.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel for organizing, analyzing, and presenting cost data.
Working knowledge of OST (On-Screen Takeoff) or similar takeoff tools.
Experience using JOIN for preconstruction collaboration and decision tracking.
Experience using BuildingConnected for managing bids and subcontractor proposals.
Proficiency with Bluebeam for reviewing, marking up, and analyzing plans and documents.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications accurately.
Strong communication skills with a focus on customer needs, expectations, and satisfaction.
High level of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct.
Ability to work collaboratively with preconstruction and project teams in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Experience in construction management or project management within commercial construction.
Experience in preconstruction, including budgeting, value analysis, and early-phase cost planning.
Familiarity with cost estimating best practices and industry benchmarks.
Experience engaging and managing relationships with subcontractors and trade partners.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
Ability to compare multiple design or scope options and provide clear cost evaluations.
Comfort using multiple estimating and collaboration platforms in a technology-driven environment.
Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple estimates or bids simultaneously.

Why Work Here?

You will join a collaborative, professional environment where preconstruction and project teams work closely to deliver high-quality projects. The organization values integrity, customer focus, and long-term relationships with trade partners. You can expect exposure to diverse commercial projects, modern estimating tools, and opportunities to deepen your technical expertise. The culture emphasizes teamwork, clear communication, and continuous improvement, providing a supportive setting to grow your career in construction estimating.

Work Environment

The role operates in a professional office and preconstruction setting, using modern construction technologies and digital tools such as DESTINI Estimator, Microsoft Excel, OST, JOIN, BuildingConnected, and Bluebeam. You will work closely with preconstruction managers, project managers, estimators, and subcontractors, often collaborating on design documents, drawings, and digital models. Work typically follows standard business hours, with occasional adjustments to meet bid deadlines or project milestones. The environment emphasizes professionalism, clear communication, and effective coordination across teams and trade partners, with typical business attire appropriate for office-based and meeting-based work.

Job Type & Location: This is a Contract position based out of Bellevue, WA.

Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $52.00 - $62.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type: This is a fully onsite position in Bellevue, WA.

Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Aug 7, 2026.

Construction Estimator at Aerotek

JOB DESCRIPTION