Lead Estimator

Essential Functions:
Leadership & Accountability:
Lead, mentor, and manage a team of estimators, fostering a culture of accountability, learning, and collaboration.
Set the standard for accurate, timely, and well-documented estimates.
Coordinate with leadership, project managers, and field staff to ensure estimates align with execution strategies and real-world conditions.

Estimating & Cost Analysis:
Perform detailed quantity takeoffs, cost modeling, and pricing using industry-standard software.
Review design documents, specifications, and project scopes to identify gaps, risks, and value-engineering opportunities.
Oversee development of conceptual and hard-bid estimates across a variety of project types, including retail, service centers, amenity spaces, hospitality, and light commercial.

Process Optimization & Tools:
Continually improve estimating tools, templates, and cost databases to increase accuracy and efficiency.
Evaluate historical data and integrate lessons learned into future estimating practices.
Champion technology adoption and continuous improvement across the preconstruction function.

Cross-Departmental Collaboration:
Support business development by preparing budgets and estimates that help win work.
Work closely with the operations teams to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction to execution.
Participate in project handoff meetings, pre-bid walkthroughs, and scope reviews with trade partners.

Client and Trade Partner Engagement:
Build strong relationships with clients, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to enhance collaboration and trust.
Solicit and evaluate subcontractor bids and ensure scopes are fully captured and qualified.
Represent RCS with professionalism and integrity in all interactions.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Proven Experience: Minimum 5+ years estimating experience .

• Strong knowledge of construction means, methods, and materials.

• Excellent mathematical and analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy.

• Proficiency in estimating tools and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Ability to read and interpret plans, drawings, and specifications across multiple trades.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills for internal coordination and external presentations.

• Team leadership experience with an emphasis on mentorship and staff development .

Key Traits for Success:

• Detail-Oriented: Recognizes the impact small details have on project scope and pricing.

• Accountable: Delivers consistent, high-quality work on deadline .

• Solutions-Oriented: Finds opportunities and efficiencies through creative problem-solving.

• Collaborative: Builds strong cross-functional relationships and thrives in a team-first culture.

• Cultural Fit: Lives out RCSs core values of Authenticity, Teamwork, Positivity, Solutions-Oriented Thinking, and Doing the Right Thing.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

• Normal office environment

• Able to sit or stand for long periods of time working at a computer

Education and Experience:

• Bachelors degree in business or construction management preferred

• 5+ years experience in a senior management role

• Valid Drivers License and auto insurance

Required Travel:

• Occasional travel to job sites and for conferences or training

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. Employees may perform other duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.