Estimating Assistant

The Estimating Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the construction estimating team by gathering, organizing, and analyzing data to prepare accurate cost estimates for construction projects. This position involves collaborating closely with project managers, engineers, and suppliers to ensure all materials, labor, and equipment costs are accounted for in bids and proposals. The Estimating Assistant contributes to the development of competitive and realistic project budgets that align with client requirements and company standards. Attention to detail and strong organizational skills are essential to manage multiple estimates simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines. Ultimately, this role helps drive successful project planning and execution by providing reliable cost information that informs decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred.
• Basic understanding of construction processes, materials, and terminology.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with construction estimating software such as Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or similar tools.
• Familiarity with reading and interpreting construction drawings and specifications.
• Previous experience in a construction or estimating role.
• Knowledge of construction cost databases and industry pricing standards.
• Ability to multitask and manage time efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:

• Collect and review project plans, specifications, and other documentation to identify estimating requirements.
• Assist in preparing detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for materials, labor, and equipment.
• Coordinate with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain pricing and delivery information.
• Maintain and update estimating databases and cost records to ensure accuracy and consistency.
• Support the estimating team in assembling bid packages and proposals for submission.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams to clarify project scope and resolve discrepancies.
• Track and document changes in project scope or specifications that may impact estimates.
• Assist in analyzing historical cost data to improve future estimating accuracy.

Skills:

The Estimating Assistant uses analytical skills daily to interpret project documents and extract relevant data for cost calculations. Proficiency in Excel and estimating software enables efficient preparation and adjustment of detailed cost estimates. Strong communication skills facilitate collaboration with suppliers, subcontractors, and internal teams to gather accurate pricing and clarify project details. Organizational skills are essential to maintain comprehensive records and manage multiple estimates simultaneously without compromising accuracy. Additionally, problem-solving abilities help identify discrepancies or changes in project scope that could affect overall costs, ensuring estimates remain reliable and up to date.

About Company:

At BRIDGES we have assembled a team that is experienced, knowledgeable, dedicated and recognized as being highly regarded professionals in the construction industry. BRIDGES’ philosophy of having quality people at all levels drives the company’s commitment to provide clients with highly personalized service including extensive use of TQM, Partnering and sustainable (Green) design in constructing the best possible facility at the most reasonable cost. At BRIDGES, project continuance is a key, i.e., top management, project managers, estimators and job superintendents are all involved with, and informed about, every phase of your project. Your questions can be answered quickly; any problems can be resolved fast because we are committed to your project From design concept to final construction, the BRIDGES team works closely with the owner/developer, architect, and engineer providing informed project support in a variety of markets including health care, medical facilities, student housing and condominiums, high technology, retail, private clubs, churches, industrial, institutional and commercial.

About the Role: