LEAD ESTIMATOR
About the Role
At Brooks & Freund, our Lead Estimator plays a critical role in how we win work and set our projects up for success. This is a position for someone who takes full ownership of the estimating process, communicates with confidence across clients, architects, and subcontractors, and builds the kind of trusted relationships that give us a competitive edge.
If you bring deep construction knowledge, sharp negotiation instincts, and a collaborative leadership style, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities
Ownership
- Own the full estimating process — from soliciting and reviewing subcontractor and supplier bids to confirming complete scope against project plans and specifications.
- Review estimates for data completeness, accuracy, and alignment with the project's physical scope and execution schedule.
- Obtain multiple bids per scope and apply sound judgment in selecting the most suitable option for each project.
- Assist project teams in resolving estimating issues related to cost, schedule, and change orders.
- Understand and apply estimating structures, formats, and reporting standards consistently across all projects.
Communication
- Serve as a primary point of contact for clients and architects during the estimating phase — communicating clearly, professionally, and with a solutions-first approach.
- Collaborate closely with internal project teams to confirm complete scope and alignment before bids are finalized.
- Present estimates and bid recommendations with clarity and confidence to leadership and stakeholders.
Relationships
- Meet and negotiate directly with subcontractors to secure competitive pricing while maintaining strong, long-term working relationships.
- Mentor and train new Estimators, sharing expertise and reinforcing Brooks & Freund's standards for quality and accountability.
- Build a reputation as a fair, knowledgeable partner that subcontractors, suppliers, and clients trust and want to work with.
What You Bring
- 10–15 years of experience in the commercial construction industry
- Bachelor's degree in a construction-related field
- Supervisory or project leadership experience preferred
- Strong organizational, negotiation, interpersonal, and leadership skills
- Ability to work both independently and as a collaborative team member
- Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Outlook, Word)
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