Senior Estimator

The Weitz Company / Contrack Watts, Inc.
life insurance, parental leave, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, 401(k)
United States, Iowa, Des Moines
May 05, 2025
Senior Estimator 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. #LI-MJ1