Commercial Estimator & Growth Partner

Role Summary

This is not your typical estimating role. At Dealers Wholesale, we're looking for a Division 8 expert who's equal parts estimator, strategist, and relationship-builder. You'll own the estimating process and actively shape the customer journey-from first contact to final bid.

This is a rare opportunity to work with a high-performing team and a loyal customer base in a role that directly drives top-line growth. You'll partner with contractors, architects, and end-users, delivering value far beyond pricing alone. If you're someone who thrives in both technical execution and customer engagement, this is your seat at the table.

Mission

To deliver accurate, value-driven Division 8 estimates while building and strengthening long-term customer relationships that contribute to profitable growth.

Top Outcomes

Relationship & Pipeline Development

• Within 45 days: Introduce yourself to 6-10 targeted customers and identify active bid opportunities
• Within 180 days: Generate $1,000,000 in bookings from active estimates and outreach

Revenue Growth

• By 12 months: Book $3,000,000 in total revenue
• Annually thereafter: Book $5,000,000+ in high-value commercial projects

Execution Excellence

• Respond to 100% of viable bid requests from your target customer base
• Consistently submit accurate, timely estimates that reflect our quality standards and value proposition

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Technical Expertise

• Analyze architectural drawings and specifications for commercial Division 8 projects
• Develop accurate takeoffs and cost estimates using Avaware
• Identify value engineering opportunities that improve scope and margins
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of building codes, fire/life safety standards, ADA compliance, and access control integration

Customer Engagement & Business Development

• Communicate directly with customers via phone, email, and in-person meetings
• Follow up on bids, negotiate scope and pricing, and close awarded work
• Conduct regular (at least quarterly) customer visits to build engagement and trust
• Expand relationships with strategic customers and identify new ones as needed to meet revenue goals

Team Collaboration & Vendor Management

• Work cross-functionally with internal sales, purchasing, and project management teams
• Coordinate with vendors to ensure competitive pricing and product availability

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of estimating or project management experience in Division 8 (commercial doors, frames, hardware)
• Deep knowledge of hardware systems, construction plans, and industry best practices
• Expertise in estimating software such as Comsense or Avaware
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PDF editing tools
• Clear written and verbal communication skills, especially with customers and trade partners
• Organized, accountable, and deadline-driven - with a bias toward action and accuracy
• DHI certifications (AHC, CDC, EHC, AOC) strongly preferred

Ideal Candidate Profile

Technical Expert: Knows Division 8 inside and out. Can read plans, scope a job, and price it quickly and accurately. Relationship-Builder: Builds long-term trust with customers and colleagues alike. Treats every interaction as an opportunity to add value. Growth-Minded: Thrives on challenge and sees every bid as a chance to win smart work and grow the business. Doer with Discipline: Manages multiple bids, vendors, and deadlines with sharp focus and follow-through. Team Player: Brings energy, collaboration, and a positive attitude to every project.

Why Dealers Wholesale?

We're a 60-year-old company with a growth mindset and a strong values-driven culture. Our people are the foundation of our success, and our best days are ahead of us. We invest in excellence, reward ownership, and build careers-not just jobs.

We're proud to be a Best Place to Work in Indiana and a trusted name in commercial construction.

Location:

Indianapolis, IN (Onsite) or Midwest Remote