Chief Estimator

SUMMARY

The Chief Estimator is a critical member of the Guido team, as we partner with our clients and design teams to develop project programs, conceptual estimates, budgets, schedules, and all follow-up activities. The Chief Estimator must have a proven desire to manage, direct, and work with others to achieve success and provide design assistance; investigate and offer design/construction options and solutions; prepare budgets and estimates; prepare documents for subcontractor/supplier bidding; manage the bid process; assist in developing project schedules and logistics plans; support the construction team; maintain historic pricing models; and provide post‑construction client follow‑up.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

(other duties may be required)

• Manage and mentor a team of estimators, reviewing, and approving all bids and proposals.
• Develop strategies for each assigned project and organize the team to execute successfully.
• Analyze project specifications, identify potential risks, and develop bid strategies to maximize profitability.
• Develop comprehensive estimates, including takeoff, material, labor, equipment, subcontractor costs, and profit margins.
• Maintain and update cost data, including historical, labor, and material rates.
• Prepare instructions to bidders, bid form, and other bid solicitation information as required.
• Work with project managers, clients, and subcontractors to clarify scope and finalize project costs.
• Build effective relationships with customers, design team, specialty contractors, suppliers, and user groups that reflect and support the company's core values and meet or exceed the customer's expectations.
• Collaborate with the VP of Preconstruction to allocate resources effectively and manage the workload of the estimating team.
• Take lead in preparing GMPs/Brings GMP’s to closure.
• Drive deadlines and achieve results.
• Review all contracts and front‑end documents. Work closely with legal counsel to incorporate proposals and contract negotiations.
• Lead and mentor the estimating team, providing guidance and support to ensure high performance.
• Provide regular reports and updates on the growth and development of the estimating team.
• Actively participate in industry, client, and community relations initiatives that support strategic growth objectives.
• Market work to existing clients by participating in project interviews and public events.
• Support operations during subcontractor negotiations and project hand‑off.
• Actively participate in succession planning of estimating staff.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four‑year college or university in Construction Management, Architecture, Business Administration, or Engineering. Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in estimating construction projects.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to navigate various estimating, scheduling, and database platforms (Destini, a plus) as well as the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to balance commitments and maintain flexibility to jump in‑and‑out of projects on short notice.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing.
• Ability to meet and work within critical deadlines and under moderate pressure.
• Ability to rally a team to innovatively accomplish complex goals under tight deadlines.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

ASPE certification is a plus, but not required.