Commercial Estimator

An established commercial general contractor known for delivering high-quality projects with a hands-on, relationship-driven approach, is seeking an Estimator to join their team onsite in Fargo, ND. This is an opportunity to take ownership of estimating and preconstruction across a diverse portfolio of commercial, multifamily, public, and private projects while working in a small, nimble environment where your experience and ideas can make a visible impact.
What You'll Do as the Estimator:
Manage estimates and bids from initial opportunity review through final proposal and project handoff
Perform detailed quantity takeoffs across civil, structural, architectural, and related construction scopes
Develop accurate project estimates using drawings, specifications, historical costs, current market data, and subcontractor pricing
Build conceptual and preliminary budgets for projects during early design and preconstruction phases
Review drawings and specifications to identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, cost risks, and opportunities
Develop detailed trade scopes and bid packages to ensure complete subcontractor coverage
Solicit, qualify, compare, and level subcontractor and supplier proposals
Coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, vendors, and internal project teams throughout preconstruction
Manage multiple active bids while maintaining accuracy, organization, and submission deadlines
Prepare compliant proposals for commercial, multifamily, federal, state, municipal, and private-sector opportunities
Account for bonding, wage requirements, and other applicable public or federal contracting considerations
Support subcontractor negotiations, purchasing, and project buyout
Provide Project Managers with a thorough handoff of awarded projects, including budgets, scopes, assumptions, and subcontractor information
Assist with pricing change orders and evolving project scopes as needed
Attend pre-bid meetings, site walks, and project strategy meetings
Must-Haves as the Estimator:
3-5+ years of commercial construction estimating experience or comparable relevant experience
Strong knowledge of commercial construction methods, materials, sequencing, and costs
Demonstrated experience performing detailed quantity takeoffs and developing complete estimates
Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents
Experience soliciting and leveling subcontractor and vendor bids
Ability to identify scope gaps and potential cost or constructability issues before they impact a project
Strong Excel and general computer skills
Excellent organization and attention to detail
Ability to independently manage multiple bids and deadlines
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally to project sites and pre-bid meetings as needed
Ability to work onsite in Fargo, ND as part of a collaborative team
Nice-to-Haves as the Estimator:
Experience estimating multifamily construction
Experience with federal, state, or municipal construction projects
Knowledge of bonding, prevailing wage requirements, and public-sector contracting
Experience with ConstructConnect, Sage Construction, Bluebeam, or similar estimating and construction platforms
Previous Project Management experience with the ability to provide additional support across the project lifecycle
Experience supporting buyout, change-order pricing, or projects after award
Established relationships with subcontractors and suppliers in Fargo or the surrounding regional construction market
The Company Offers:
Base salary starting around $90,000, with flexibility above the range for an outstanding candidate with stronger experience
100% employer-paid individual health insurance premium through Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota
401(k) with a 100% company match on the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the next 2%, eligible after one year
Two weeks of paid vacation
Paid company holidays
Employer contribution toward individual basic accident coverage
Stable, full-time opportunity with an established commercial contractor
Broad project exposure across commercial, multifamily, public, and private construction
Opportunity to work beyond traditional estimating for someone who brings Project Management experience
Small, nimble, family-oriented company culture with direct access to leadership
Onsite Fargo work environment built around teamwork, accountability, quality, and getting projects done right