Overview

The Senior Estimator will lead the estimating and preconstruction efforts for complex healthcare and commercial construction projects throughout the Bay Area. This role is responsible for developing comprehensive budgets, guiding bidding strategy, mentoring junior estimators, and partnering with operations to deliver competitive, accurate, and strategic proposals. The Senior Estimator brings deep knowledge of healthcare regulations, building systems, and Bay Area market conditions to support successful project pursuit and execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead full-cycle estimating for large-scale healthcare and commercial projects from conceptual through GMP and hard bid
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and program requirements to identify risks, constructability issues, and cost drivers
• Develop detailed cost models for MEP, structural, architectural, and specialty healthcare systems
• Direct subcontractor bidding strategy, scope coverage, and bid leveling for accuracy and completeness
• Maintain deep knowledge of healthcare construction standards (e.g., FGI, ICRA, OSHPD/HPD, NFPA) and Bay Area commercial market trends
• Partner with owners, architects, and internal teams to define scope, assumptions, and value engineering options
• Resolve cost discrepancies through detailed analysis and coordination with design and trade partners
• Lead value engineering and cost control initiatives to align design with budget
• Mentor and manage junior estimators and preconstruction staff
• Represent the company in client presentations, interviews, and proposal meetings
• Communicate and reinforce the firm's competitive advantages throughout the pursuit process

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Accounting, Finance, or equivalent experience
• 5-15+ years of estimating or preconstruction experience in healthcare and commercial construction, preferably in the Bay Area
• Proven leadership in managing complex, multi-million-dollar healthcare projects
• Expert ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, and healthcare system layouts
• Deep knowledge of MEP systems, medical equipment coordination, and regulatory compliance
• Advanced proficiency with estimating software (Sage, ProEst, Bluebeam, OST, or similar)
• Strong business acumen, negotiation, and client-facing communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and influence project strategy in a competitive Bay Area market