Senior Estimator – Multi‑Family Construction

About the role

The company, a vertically integrated real‑estate development and construction firm, is looking for a Senior Estimator to lead pre‑construction and estimating for high‑density multi‑family housing projects across California. You will act as a trusted advisor to development, design, and construction teams, providing accurate cost guidance from concept through final buyout.

Key responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive conceptual, schematic, design‑development and construction estimates for multi‑family projects.
• Establish project budgets and cost models during early planning and entitlement phases.
• Analyze designs and deliver real‑time cost feedback to development, architectural and engineering teams.
• Lead value‑engineering initiatives to identify cost‑saving alternatives while maintaining quality.
• Prepare detailed quantity take‑offs across all scopes (architectural, structural, civil, MEP).
• Evaluate subcontractor proposals, qualifications and bid packages for accurate pricing.
• Manage subcontractor buyout processes and negotiate competitive pricing.
• Maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers and industry partners.
• Identify cost risks, market trends and pricing fluctuations affecting budgets and schedules.
• Collaborate with operations teams to ensure smooth transition from pre‑construction to field execution.

Required profile

• Minimum 7 years of estimating or pre‑construction experience with a general contractor.
• Significant experience estimating high‑density multi‑family housing projects.
• Strong understanding of how design decisions, market conditions and labor structures impact project economics.

Required skills

• Cost estimating
• Quantity take‑off
• Value engineering
• Bid evaluation and subcontractor negotiation