Estimator

At NewGround, we believe the right environment can change how people work, connect, and succeed. As a leading design and delivery firm, we partner with financial institutions, healthcare providers, and corporations to turn vision into reality. Our work is powered by clear communication, true collaboration, bold innovation, service-driven thinking, and a commitment to excellence, all centered in our defining core values. In the role of Estimator, you’ll be a key contributor to that mission, helping shape projects, teams, and experiences that truly make a difference.

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and complete construction budgets, quantity takeoffs, and cost estimates for commercial new construction and renovation projects. Working closely with sales, design, preconstruction, and construction teams, the Estimator supports project planning and delivery by evaluating project requirements, developing estimates throughout the design process, obtaining subcontractor and supplier pricing, analyzing costs, and identifying opportunities to maximize value while meeting project objectives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare accurate and complete conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates for commercial construction projects.

• Develop project budgets, quantity takeoffs, and cost analyses for all required scopes of work.

• Review project agreements, drawings, specifications, site information, and other project documentation to establish scope and pricing requirements.

• Solicit, evaluate, and incorporate subcontractor and supplier pricing into project estimates.

• Communicate estimates, budgets, assumptions, and cost impacts effectively with clients and internal project teams.

• Collaborate with sales, architects, project managers, and other stakeholders to establish estimating requirements, schedules, and deadlines.

• Prepare estimating deliverables, bid tabulations, and presentation materials for internal reviews and client meetings.

• Monitor project design progression and update estimates to reflect design changes and evolving project requirements as requested.

• Support project teams throughout preconstruction and construction by providing budget guidance and cost-related analysis.

• Maintain estimating software, cost databases, estimating records, and historical cost information.

• Participate in project kickoff, budget review, and project debrief meetings to support continuous improvement and cost database development.

• Monitor construction market trends, labor costs, and material pricing to support estimating activities.

• Evaluate construction methods and materials for cost effectiveness and provide value engineering recommendations when appropriate.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

EXPECTATIONS

• Working knowledge of commercial construction methods, materials, building systems, and industry practices.

• Experience preparing quantity takeoffs, cost estimates, and project budgets for commercial construction projects.

• Experience working with subcontractors, suppliers, and construction pricing methodologies.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate project risks, identify cost-saving opportunities, and recommend practical solutions.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate and reliable estimates.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively collaborate with clients, consultants, and internal project teams.

• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.

• Ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Ability to maintain estimating schedules and deliverables while adapting to changing project requirements.

• Demonstrated ability to support project objectives through proactive communication, teamwork, and value engineering initiatives.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE PREREQUISITES

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred.

• Minimum of 3 years of estimating, preconstruction, or related commercial construction experience.

• Experience with Procore Estimating or similar commercial construction estimating software.

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project documents.

• Experience preparing quantity takeoffs, construction budgets, and cost estimates.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

• Working knowledge of Revit preferred.

At NewGround, we believe in investing in our people. That commitment shows up in competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and company initiatives like our Sabbatical Program. We offer a collaborative, values-driven environment with a strong emphasis on volunteerism and community engagement, meaningful opportunities to shape the future of our industry, and supportive colleagues and leaders who are invested in your growth.

What We Offer:

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays

• 401(k) with company match

• Paid parental leave

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Sabbatical program

NewGround International helps brands plan, design, and build innovative spaces that drive growth. With 100+ years of experience and an all-in-house team, we deliver Strategy, Design, Build, and Interiors from start to finish. Headquartered in St. Louis with offices in Chicago and Waterloo, Ontario.

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