Construction Estimator

About the job

Position Summary

Great States Construction, a leading commercial general contractor based in Fargo, ND, is seeking a detail-driven Estimator to prepare accurate, competitive cost estimates for multi-family and commercial construction projects out of our Fargo, ND office. The Construction Estimator prepares quantity takeoffs, solicits and levels subcontractor and supplier pricing, and assembles complete bid proposals from conceptual budgeting through final bid. This role offers a clear development path toward senior estimating and preconstruction leadership. The role reports directly to the VP of Construction.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate quantity takeoffs from drawings and specifications for multi-family and commercial projects.

• Solicit, track, and level subcontractor and supplier quotes to ensure complete and competitive scope coverage.

• Assemble complete bid proposals and cost estimates spanning all divisions, from conceptual budgeting through hard bid.

• Perform material, labor, and equipment cost analysis; identify value-engineering and cost-saving opportunities.

• Prepare and issue subcontractor bid packages, scope sheets, and bid clarifications.

• Attend pre-bid meetings and site walks; document existing conditions, scope, and assumptions.

• Build and maintain unit-cost and historical cost data to improve estimate accuracy over time.

• Support project buyout and the handoff of awarded work to the project management team.

• Coordinate with project managers, superintendents, architects, and owners to clarify scope and resolve discrepancies.

• Maintain estimating logs and track bid results to inform future pricing strategy.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of construction estimating experience; multi-family estimating experience strongly preferred .

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and scopes of work.

• Solid understanding of construction methods, materials, means and methods, and cost drivers.

• Strong analytical, mathematical, and organizational skills with a high attention to detail.

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

• Proficiency in Bluebeam (or a comparable digital takeoff tool) and Microsoft Excel; experience with Procore a plus.

• Ability to manage multiple bids and competing deadlines simultaneously.

• Team-oriented with a commitment to professional growth.

Benefits and Perks

• 20% discount at all Collective Property Management properties

• 401(k) with company match

• Health, dental, and vision insurance with HSA

• Life insurance, hospital indemnity, Employee Assistance Program, and more

• Flexible time off and 9 paid holidays

• Paid volunteer hours

• Cell phone reimbursement

• Professional development opportunities

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

• Occasional site visits requiring standing/walking for extended periods.

Why Join Us

At Great States Construction, we pride ourselves on a collaborative, dynamic work environment where team members are empowered to make a difference. Because our development pipeline generates a steady backlog of negotiated work, your estimates become built projects — not just bid-day exercises. This role offers a clear growth path from Construction Estimator to Senior Estimator and preconstruction leadership as our multi-family and commercial portfolio grows.

WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER