Construction Estimator

The Construction Estimator prepares detailed costs estimates for construction projects.  They analyze project plans, specifications and other documentation to prepare requirement, material and labor estimates.  They collaborate with construction project management, department leadership and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and accurate estimates.  They solicit, review and evaluate subcontractor and vendor quotes.   Conduct a bid risk assessment and monetized quantifications. develop and write all bid packages and subcontractor scopes of work.   Maintain and update historical costs data for future reference.  Participate in bid review meetings and present estimates to department leadership.  Assist in project set-up and provide cost control support during project execution.  

• Read and interpret project documents, understand project logistics, understand project schedule, and develop scopes of work.  
• Perform detailed and accurate quantity takeoffs and obtain material pricing.  Enter data into estimating spreadsheets.  
• Work with Milhouse management and field operation teams to estimate labor production rates, identify project efficiencies, and identify alternate approaches.  
• Attend client pre-bid meetings, visit project sites, take notes, and assess site-specific conditions.  
• Submit and follow up pre-bid requests for information.  
• Prepare bids itemized by specification section and detailed into labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and overhead costs.  
• Present bids to management, succinctly explaining estimate details and project specifics.  
• Prepare accurate and competitive hard bid construction cost estimates and submit formal proposals in a timely manner.  
• Maintain detailed and orderly project files, adhering to Milhouse quality standards.  
• Follow up on bid results.  
• Build relationships with clients, contractors, and vendors.   
• Perform peer reviews of estimates and proposals.  Troubleshoot and resolve estimate issues.  
• Maintain past performance databases and spreadsheets.  
• Research data on industry standard labor production rates and material costs.  
• Maintain the bid board, bid tracking logs, customer history, and material management.  
• Identify and recommend improvements to the bidding process.  
• Maintain professional & technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.  

• Experience estimating commercial carpentry projects that include framing, gypsum board, rough carpentry, finish carpentry, acoustical ceiling systems and doors.  
• Knowledge of applicable codes and standards.  
• Experience with estimating takeoff software.  
• Strong focus on customer service.  
• Ability to work under pressure.  
• Well-organized, flexible, detail oriented and have the ability to multi-task.  
• Recovers from disappointments and setbacks.  
• Comfortable interacting with a wide variety of technical and business audiences.  
• Promotes focus on team accomplishments, sharing credit.  
• Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented environment.  
• Ability to work within a climate that values learning as a lifelong professional requirement.  
• Ability to work within a climate that views errors and failures as learning opportunities.  
• Seeks opportunities to help others learn as teacher, coach, and mentor.  
• You will be required be on construction sites frequently and at client locations for bid proposals and drafting.   
• Knowledge of applicable codes and standards.  

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Architecture, Construction Management or Project Management preferred or equivalent experience  
• 5+ years of Construction Management/General Contractor experience 
• 2 years of experience estimating commercial carpentry projects that include framing, gypsum board, rough carpentry, finish carpentry, acoustical ceiling systems and doors.  
• 1 year of experience with estimating takeoff software.  
• Experience estimating construction projects $50,000 to $5,000,000.  
• Proficient in Microsoft Windows, Word, and Excel.  
• Superior written and oral communication skills.  

Milhouse is a pay transparency non-discrimination organization committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We ensure that all employees are compensated fairly and without bias, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, effective January 1, 2025, we include pay scales and benefits in all job postings and ensure that all promotion opportunities are communicated to current employees within 14 days of external postings. Additionally, we participate in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility and uphold compliance with federal requirements.

Why join the Construction team? Here's why:

Our Construction team is a blend of skillful professionals who work to support and learn from one another. Come grow with us as we learn to tackle a plethora of different projects in different areas of the Chicago-land region!

Milhouse Construction is a subsidiary of Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.  Milhouse Construction is a general contractor with a self-performing carpentry division.  We perform both rough and finish carpentry, including framing, drywall, acoustical ceilings, millwork, doors, and other specialized carpentry work.

Here's a little information on Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.:

Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc. was founded in 2001 with the goal of building the best engineering company in the country. It was based on the belief that if we hired great people, fueled their passion while challenging them to excel, and maintained a laser focus on the needs of your clients, success would come- and so it has. Our portfolio of successful projects continues to grow, our family of highly satisfied clients continues to expand, and our staff just gets better and better.

We are a unique, Chicago-based firm whose collective passion, vision and expertise has led to phenomenal growth! With more than 500+ talented professionals and offices across the globe, Milhouse offers a dynamic work environment where there is no limit to what you can achieve if you are willing to go after it.

Important Notice to US Applicants

Milhouse Construction is an at-will employer.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.