Senior Estimator - Industrial Construction

The Weitz Company is seeking a Senior Estimator to join our Tecnico-Industrial team in Des Moines, IA!

​The Senior Estimator is responsible for all preconstruction cost control functions for construction projects including complete estimates, cost analysis, comparisons, assisting with feasibility studies, and historical cost reports. This individual is capable of performing cost control functions on multiple projects of varying complexity simultaneously. Additionally, this role may take the lead role in preconstruction efforts. Typically, the Senior Estimator reports to the Chief Estimator and may have estimators reporting directly to him/her on assigned project(s).

The Weitz Company has been Building a Better Way since 1855. We are a full-service construction company, general contractor, design-builder, and construction manager with office locations throughout the United States. We believe our employees to be our most valuable asset, and we are committed to growing a diverse and inclusive culture that inspires, motivates, and continuously improves.

What You’ll Do:

Review all estimates for accuracy, detail, and expectations

Review project plans, requirements, and specifications to develop a comprehensive understanding of the project and develop the scope of work, labor, and equipment costs

Prepare quantity takeoffs and pricing of scope either through self-perform production-based estimates or unit price estimating

Contact local building trades, subcontractors, suppliers, government offices, etc., to understand and verify local market conditions, trade practices, and costs

Analyze manpower and equipment requirements for specific self-perform operations

Visit project sites to evaluate existing conditions, identify and capture scope not included in design documents

Prepare quantity surveys and unit pricing sheets for subcontractors’ completion and submission of unit price data

Prepare bid analysis scope sheets and review subcontractor cost proposals to ensure bid proposals are complete

Prepare and enter estimate data in WinEst, including estimate breakdowns and alternates

Prepare trade partner bid proposal forms and bid recording sheets for assigned trades, evaluate trade partner input for scope inclusion, identify scope gaps and overlaps, and coordinate with other staff managing trades

Understand the impact of general conditions and contract language; review with the project team

Coordinate building systems and schedules with Operations to plan and budget for safety on each project

Utilize conceptual estimating skills and identify items required for complete systems, even if not outlined on construction documents

Make decisions in a timely manner; understand when to involve upper management in decisions; assess the level of risk and consequences associated

Understand the clients’ needs to manage the process efficiently, ensure timely completion, understand local logistics/subcontractor and supplier market, and how BIM/LEED/LEAN can be best utilized

Prioritize safety and communicate safety requirements to the team

Assist with certain post-bid buyouts

Initiate and participate in meet-and-greet presentations with subcontractors and suppliers

What We’re Looking For

Education: 

Bachelor's Degree from an accredited degree program in Engineering, Construction Management, Building Construction, or similar

Experience:

Ten years of estimating responsibility is required for this position. Experience with formal presentations and supervising staff is helpful

Skills/Qualifications:

This position requires excellent conceptual estimating skills and the ability to identify items required for complete systems, even if not delineated on construction documents

The ability to mentally schedule and construct a building from drawings is essential

Excellent computer skills are important, as is the ability to quickly learn, articulate, and apply new applications as the industry grows and changes

Must have the ability to communicate in a professional and courteous manner with clients, architects, subcontractors, suppliers, and project teams

Organization, quick creative thinking, and the ability to balance and prioritize projects with impending deadlines are essential

The ideal candidate will be a great communicator with a strong track record of providing accurate estimating services

A qualified candidate will be able to compare and analyze various systems and related cost impacts, as well as possess solid leadership skills and the ability to coach direct reports

Ability to read, understand, and interpret contract documents, drawings, specifications, scopes of work, and project schedules

Extensive knowledge of estimating documents and the ability to provide accurate qualitative and quantitative analysis of documents

Conceptual ability, able to work with minimal information and quickly develop an understanding of owner/architect requirements

Project management of competing demands and meeting established deadlines

Technology:

Proficient in basic computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook

Knowledge of On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, or similar quantity takeoff software is a plus

Ability to learn specific job-related software upon hire

What We Offer: 

Competitive Pay

Rewarding Bonus Program

Comprehensive Benefits Package with Tax-Advantaged HSA and FSA offerings

Employer-Paid Short- and Long-Term Disability Programs

Employer-Paid Life Insurance

Generous Paid Time Off Provisions

401K Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match

Tuition Reimbursement

Fully Paid Parental Leave

Voluntary Products Including: Critical Illness Insurance and Accident Insurance

Corporate Wellness Program with Wellness Time Off and Rewards

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position at this time. 

The Company does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of the Company without a prior written search agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of the Company. Please, no phone calls or emails.

The Weitz Company, LLC (and its U.S.-based subsidiaries and affiliates) recognizes the value of and is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse and inclusive workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and follow applicable affirmative action guidelines and policies. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment (including minorities, females, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected categories in accordance with applicable ​state and federal laws). The Company is a drug and alcohol-free workplace and background checks are required if applicable. Click here to review our Privacy Notice. 

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