Estimator

The Estimator is responsible for all aspects of estimating including pre-construction, hard bids, negotiated bids, budgets, general conditions, systems studies and comparisons, value engineering, subcontractor relations and staying abreast of industry developments applicable to estimating.

Overall Focus

• Do whatever it takes to ensure that Thornton bids and proposals are competitive and have the greatest chance of winning.
• Double-check all critical work deliverables to minimize mistakes.
• Build strong win-win relationships with other departments, including Operations, Business Development, and Accounting.
• Handle all subcontractor interactions in a manner designed to build a long term relationship.
• Research and maintain technological excellence in their work environment.
• Identify creative ways to deliver additional profit if possible.

Bid Administration

• Prepare and maintain status of plan reproduction.
• Solicit and maintain communication with subcontractors and vendors.
• Prepare subcontractor bid packages.
• Transmit addenda and other bid information to subcontractors.
• Ensure that we have the proper coverage from subcontractors on bid day.
• Contact supply houses to obtain additional subcontractor bids.
• Show creativity and resourcefulness to gain better pricing from subcontractors.
• Submit 100% of bids and budgets by the bid deadline – no exceptions.

Project Knowledge

• Review bid requirements thoroughly and ask follow-up question on every bid.
• Has a thorough understanding of the scope for specific trades assigned.
• Develop RFI's and clarifications and ensure adequate subcontractor coverage.
• Perform a comprehensive "bid day" analysis and scoping of specific assigned trades.
• Understand how to fit subs to the size/scope of project.
• Create bid lists that fit scope of job, ensuring that we have the right subs for the project
• Minimize exclusions by “doing our homework.”
• Include value-engineering ideas on every bid.

Follow up & closing

• Consistently follow up on submitted bids and budgets with Architect and/or Construction Manager to close business.
• Know architects, construction managers, property managers, brokers and can close business

Project turnover

• Properly turn over bid documents and sub buyout information to Project Management in a timely manner.
• Review drawings with Project Management team and highlight areas of concern.
• Review job costs with Project Management team and highlight any subs/material vendors that still need to be awarded.

Subcontractor Management

• Thoroughly check requirements to buy the proper scope.
• Award subs in a timely manner to ensure release of materials.
• Release materials for record only when possible.
• Ensure that subs are aware of (and commit to) the project schedule.
• Seek & qualify new subcontractors.

Leadership and Relationship Building

• Ensure that the estimating process runs smoothly and efficiently and client expectations are exceeded throughout the duration of the project(s).
• Build relationships to understand client, designer and subcontractor needs and expectations.
• Effectively facilitate collaboration amongst team members.
• Effectively communicate with all stakeholders.
• Manage Assistant Estimators.
• Periodically participate in business development activities, presentations and interviews.
• Lead the Estimating team including Assistant Estimators, MEP Estimators and Career Start team members on projects.
• Act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture or related field.
• 3-10 years of experience in Estimating, or equivalent.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Precision and accuracy in calculations and documentation.
• Experience with estimating software.
• BIM experience a plus.

Necessary Attributes

• Candidate must possess Thornton’s Core Values: Results Driven, Proactive, Safety Conscious, People Focused, Customer Oriented, and Team Oriented.
• Able to work with speed and efficiency.
• Understanding of the influence of market conditions on pricing.
• Must be able to manage multiple tasks and have excellent follow up skills both internally and externally.
• Actively participate as a team member.
• Work effectively with all colleagues and constituents.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Strong sense of urgency and initiative.
• Take ownership of projects/clients managing both up and down.
• Able to work with minimal direction.
• Excellent problem solving skills.