Senior Estimator

Summary

Our client is a leading construction manufacturer specializing in wire mesh partition and security mesh solutions and is seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to drive new business growth, manage the full bid lifecycle, and maintain strong relationships with clients and industry partners. This role is responsible for identifying bidding opportunities, preparing accurate and competitive estimates, analyzing project requirements, and following bids through to award.

This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned construction estimator with strong technical knowledge of building materials, construction methods, and manufacturing processes, as well as the interpersonal skills to build rapport with general contractors, architects, engineers, and other key stakeholders.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Business Development & Opportunity Identification

Identify and pursue new business opportunities using bidding platforms, market research, and industry relationships.

Maintain ongoing communication with general contractors, architects, engineers, developers, and other project stakeholders to uncover upcoming opportunities.

Support business growth by strengthening existing client relationships and developing new connections within the commercial construction market.

• Bid Management & Estimating

Lead the identification, tracking, and management of bidding opportunities from initial review through final submission and follow-up.

Review architectural drawings, specifications, and project documentation to understand project requirements, scope, risks, and pricing considerations.

Perform detailed takeoffs for wire mesh partitions, security mesh systems, and related products.

Prepare complete, accurate, and competitive cost estimates and bid proposals for commercial, industrial, and multifamily construction projects.

Follow up on submitted bids to track status, understand where pricing stands, and improve future bid strategy.

• Cost Analysis & Market Strategy

Analyze bid results and trends to identify areas for improvement in estimating strategy and pricing competitiveness.

Monitor market conditions, competitor pricing, material trends, and industry developments to ensure estimates remain current and aligned with market expectations.

Identify potential risks, pricing gaps, and scope clarifications during the estimating process.

• Client & Internal Collaboration

Communicate clearly with internal teams and external stakeholders regarding project scope, pricing assumptions, bid clarifications, and proposal details.

Collaborate with operations, production, and leadership teams to ensure alignment between estimates, product capabilities, and project execution.

Support negotiations, bid clarifications, and conflict resolution as needed throughout the proposal process.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Required Experience

Minimum 7–10 years of estimating experience within construction or manufacturing, with direct experience related to building materials or specialty construction products.

Proven success preparing estimates and bids within commercial, industrial, or multifamily construction environments.

Strong experience reviewing drawings, specifications, and construction documents to develop accurate pricing and takeoffs.

Experience managing the full bid lifecycle, including opportunity tracking, estimating, proposal submission, and post-bid follow-up.

• Technical Skills

Proficiency with estimating and takeoff software such as Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, or similar platforms.

Strong Microsoft Office and/or Google Workspace skills, particularly Excel, Word, and Outlook.

Solid understanding of construction materials, building systems, and manufacturing processes relevant to wire mesh and security partition products.

Ability to analyze market pricing, bid results, and estimate trends to refine estimating strategies.

• Professional Skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to build strong relationships with clients, contractors, architects, engineers, and internal teams.

Strong negotiation and problem-solving abilities.

Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in takeoffs, pricing, and bid documentation.

Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.

• Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field preferred.

Data center project experience is a major plus.

Prior experience estimating specialty construction or manufactured building products is highly preferred.

Employment Type: Full time

Location: South Holland, IL