Chief Estimator and Construction Administrator

Chief Estimator and Construction Administrator

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Chief Estimator and Construction Administrator.

Position Details Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States Division Administration Physical Plant Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded No Salary Range 77,590.00 - 91,282.00 Pay Grade

E15

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Chief Estimator and Construction Administrator to support the successful delivery of capital improvement and renovation projects. This dual-role position is responsible for developing comprehensive project cost estimates, reviewing contractor bids, and overseeing construction administration functions to ensure that projects meet design intent, quality standards, budgets, and timelines. The ideal candidate will have experience in cost analysis, public construction procurement, and managing contractor performance in higher education or public sector environments.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Estimating (Pre-Construction Phase) - Responsibilities include preparing and reviewing detailed cost estimates for new construction, renovations, repairs, and site improvements. This involves evaluating and verifying contractor bids, change orders, and project cost proposals to ensure accuracy and cost-effectiveness. Value engineering recommendations and cost-saving alternatives are provided during the design and pre-bid phases to optimize project budgets. Maintaining historical cost data and industry benchmarks is essential to support accurate budget forecasting and strategic project planning. Close collaboration with architects, engineers, and project managers ensures that the project scope aligns with estimated costs and overall financial expectations.
• Construction Administration (Construction Phase) - Serves as the university's representative to ensure projects adhere to approved plans, specifications, schedules, and building codes. Regular site visits are conducted to monitor contractor performance, assess the quality of workmanship, and ensure safety compliance. The review of submittals, Requests for Information (RFIs), and contractor change requests is done in coordination with project managers and design professionals. The role also includes coordinating project meetings, documenting construction progress, and assisting with resolving issues among contractors, consultants, and stakeholders. Thorough documentation and reporting are maintained throughout the phase, including managing punch lists and close-out procedures.
• Procurement & Contract Oversight - Supporting the preparation of bid packages and evaluating bid responses for completeness, compliance, and competitiveness. Assistance in contract negotiations is provided to ensure alignment with the requirements of the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) and the Bureau of Buildings, Grounds and Real Property Management (BoB). Ongoing monitoring ensures that contractors comply with university policies, state procurement laws, and public construction regulations, safeguarding both procedural and legal integrity throughout the procurement process.
• Collaboration & Reporting - Working closely with the Associate Director of Capital Projects, campus clients, design teams, and external agencies throughout the life cycle of each project. Regular cost reports and construction updates are provided to university leadership to ensure transparency and informed decision-making. A strong emphasis is placed on coordination between estimating and construction management functions to maintain budget integrity from the initial concept stage through to project completion.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field and seven (7) years of professional experience in construction estimating and administration.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Deep understanding of construction methods, sequencing, materials, building codes, safety standards, and sustainable building practices.
• Strong analytical skills to assess drawings, specs, and bids accurately, excellent numerical and cost analysis skills, proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Excel, effective communication skills for coordination with architects, contractors, and university departments, ability to write clear and detailed reports and cost justifications.
• Ability to develop accurate cost estimates for multiple project types (renovations, new construction, maintenance), ability to lead pre-construction efforts and coordinate input from architects, engineers, and stakeholders, ability to evaluate contractor bids and assist in the selection process, ability to forecast budgets and analyze cost trends.
• Proficiency in cost estimating software (e.g., RS Means, Sage, ProEst) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Comprehensive knowledge of construction project administration, from design to closeout, ability to read and interpret construction documents, including drawings, specs, and schedules understanding of construction contracts (e.g., AIA forms), change orders, and RFI/submittal processes.
• Familiarity with university project delivery methods, including design-bid-build, Construction Manager as Agent (CMa), Construction Manager at Risk (CmaR), and design-build.
• Skill in conflict resolution and negotiation with contractors and consultants.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in estimating or construction management or the equivalent advanced certification.

One year of experience in a supervisor role.

Certification as Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), LEED AP, or Construction Manager-in-Training (CMIT).

Familiarity with Mississippi Bureau of Buildings procedures and IHL standards.

Experience with project management software (e.g., Procore, Primavera, eBuilder, or similar).

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY