Estimator - Commercial (El Paso)

Job Summary

The Estimator is responsible for preparing detailed cost estimates based on construction drawings, specifications, and other project documentation. This role supports the preconstruction process by assisting with bid preparation, scope development, and communication with subcontractors and suppliers. The Estimator works closely with the Director of Preconstruction to develop accurate project cost projections for materials, equipment, subcontracted work, production activities, and labor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support all aspects of subcontractor and supplier estimating and bidding processes.
• Process Requests for Proposal (RFP), Requests for Qualifications (RFQ), and internal pricing requests, and facilitate broadcast announcements of bidding opportunities.
• Prepare, review, proof, and submit both private and public construction proposals.
• Coordinate proposal development with Project Managers, Marketing, and administrative staff.
• Review and qualify subcontractor bids to ensure completeness and compliance with project requirements.
• Ensure company compliance with all applicable bidding regulations and project-specific requirements.
• Prepare and deliver presentations and proposals to existing and prospective clients.
• Manage multiple bids simultaneously while meeting strict submission deadlines.
• Maintain proficiency with company estimating systems, technologies, and software platforms.
• Implement quality assurance controls in the estimating process to minimize risk exposure.
• Identify scope changes, cost impacts, or potential risks and promptly communicate findings to senior management.
• Identify strategic opportunities within proposals to strengthen Jordan Foster Construction’s position in securing work.

Proposal and Business Development Responsibilities

• Promote Jordan Foster Construction to owners, developers, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and industry partners through relationship building and brand awareness initiatives.
• Identify, retrieve, review, and administer RFQ and RFP solicitations.
• Collaborate with leadership and business development teams on project pursuit strategies.
• Develop and maintain long-term relationships with clients, architectural and engineering firms, subcontractors, and vendors.
• Assist in qualifying project leads from multiple sources including public agency postings, industry publications, online platforms, and professional contacts.
• Route qualified project opportunities to Project Team staff for evaluation.
• Work with the operations team during the preconstruction phase to review plans and specifications for constructability issues and general project requirements.
• Track and manage multiple project opportunities simultaneously.
• Ensure all estimates comply with contractual requirements and owner specifications.
• Transfer relevant project information to the Project Management team during project handoff.
• Review subcontractor and supplier bids for compliance with contract requirements and determine acceptable proposals.
• Coordinate opportunity tracking systems with the Director of Preconstruction and Divisional Vice President.
• Maintain regular attendance in accordance with company policy.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Experience estimating commercial construction projects.
• Ability to read, interpret, and understand construction drawings and specifications.
• Proficiency in estimating and project management software including Bluebeam, Primavera Scheduling, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Project.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with excellent analytical and numerical abilities.
• Strong commercial awareness and ability to interact effectively with clients and stakeholders.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, coworkers, and vendors.
• Familiarity with cost control methods, financial principles, and project management practices.
• Knowledge of research and data analysis methods and estimating metrics.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Construction Management, or related field; equivalent industry experience may be considered.
• Minimum of four (4) years of construction industry experience, including at least two (2) years of estimating experience.
• Valid driver’s license with a clear Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) may be required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to read and interpret written materials, including instructions, drawings, and safety warnings.
• Ability to distinguish colors, shapes, and patterns, and accurately perceive depth and motion.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders, navigate construction sites, and occasionally balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Ability to reach, bend, and move materials as required.
• Ability to walk or stand for extended periods when visiting project sites.
• Work may occur in both office and active construction environments. On-site conditions may include exposure to moving mechanical parts, heights, airborne particles, weather conditions, electrical hazards, and moderate to loud noise levels.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while working on a computer.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including but not limited to hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toe boots, hearing protection, and safety vests.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds when necessary.
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.