Job Description

The Estimating Center of Expertise (CoE) Leader is responsible for providing thought leadership and direction, establishing a standard set of tools, processes, techniques, and practices of Estimating. They lead a team of shared resources who provide estimating services across divisions.

They are responsible for overseeing the estimation process for proposals, ensuring accurate cost assessments and resource allocation. In addition, they will lead a team of estimators, review project proposals, and provide strategic input on bids and budgets.

This role plays a critical role in the successful preparation of estimates for proposals by clearly understanding the scope of work requirements of the RFQ/RFPs from the customer and/or Prospiant Sales Team, qualifying subcontractors & local services quotes, ensuring competitive pricing by providing accurate cost estimates, managing the estimating team, and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure the profitability and feasibility of projects.

Primary Responsibilities:

Leadership and Management:

• Drives standardization and efficiency by developing a consistent set of tools, processes, and techniques. This standardization may come from the assets that currently exist within the organization or based on outside-in best practices in estimation.
• Lead and manage the team of estimators, providing guidance, training, and support to ensure high-quality work and professional development.
• Run stage-gates and bid/no-bid reviews factoring heritage risk, operations phasing, public procurement constraints, and target margins.
• Manage the review of project specifications and download of all documentation required for proposal & bid preparation.
• Work closely with Business Development and Sales teams to prioritize the sales funnel proposals and quotes output on a timely basis.

Estimating Process Design and Management:

• Develop and implement standardized product line specific templates, procedures and best practices for estimating to ensure consistency, accuracy, and efficiency for all business segments.
• Coordinate with other departments to assess proper tax requirements.
• Review Bond applications and forms.
• Stay updated on industry trends, construction methods, and market conditions in North America to ensure informed estimating decisions. Stay up to date with actual costs for service providers, equipment, material, and component suppliers and all other trades.
• Review and approve estimates prepared by the team, ensuring compliance with project requirements and company standards
• Foster a collaborative and productive work environment, promoting teamwork and effective communication together with Design/Engineering, Project management, Supply Chain and Construction management.

Cost Estimation:

• Conduct detailed cost analysis for Institutional new & restoration, and classic commercial projects, including materials, labor, equipment, general conditions, taxes, wage requirements, union requirements, project labor agreements, and overhead costs.
• Utilize historical data, industry benchmarks, and subcontractor and supplier quotes to prepare accurate and competitive estimates.
• Identify potential cost-saving opportunities and value engineering alternatives without compromising quality or safety.

Bid Management and Strategy:

• Review bid documents, bond requirements, schedules, liquidated damages, specifications, and drawings to understand project scope and requirements.
• Assist Business Development and Sales teams in bid strategies and pricing models to maximize win rate and profitability. Utilize Cost Data platforms such as RS Means or similar to find location specific cost data.
• Collaborate with business development, project management, and executive teams to assess project risks, opportunities, and strategies.

Vendor and Subcontractor Relations:

• Establish and maintain relationships with vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers to obtain competitive pricing and ensure timely delivery of materials and services.
• Coordinate with supply chain management to negotiate contracts and agreements with subcontractors and suppliers, seeking favorable terms and conditions.

Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Assist in developing project budgets and forecasts based on estimated costs and project timelines.
• Monitor project budgets and financial performance, identifying variances and implementing corrective actions as needed.

Position Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field. Advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., Certified Professional Estimator) may be preferred.
• Several years of experience in construction estimating, with progressively increasing levels of responsibility and leadership.
• Strong technical knowledge of construction methods, materials, and cost estimating techniques.
• Proficiency in estimating software and tools (e.g., Bluebeam, Excel, On-Screen Takeoff, RS Means).
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
• Willing and enthusiastic about the opportunity to share expertise with others
• Outside-in perspective to bring innovation and industry best practices to the estimating team
• Willingness and ability to coach and develop others
• Ability to influence others through proven change management methodologies
• High level of emotional intelligence and situational self-awareness
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities, with the capability to interact professionally with clients, subcontractors, and team members.
• Demonstrated leadership and managerial skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a team.