Construction Estimator
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Job Type: Full time
Company: K2 Staffing
Salary: $
Category: Construction
Job Description Apply Now
The Construction Estimator plays a critical role in supporting the successful delivery of complex capital improvement projects, particularly within public-sector environments such as K-12 school districts and higher education institutions. This position is ideal for early-career professionals who are passionate about construction management and eager to build expertise in cost estimation, project planning, and public works. As a Construction Estimator, you will join a team renowned for its hands-on, owner’s representative approach, guiding projects from early planning and entitlement through design, procurement, and construction readiness. Working closely with experienced project managers, cost management leaders, and stakeholders, you will gain exposure to every phase of the project lifecycle. The full-time Construction Estimator position offers the opportunity to work on significant school district programs, supporting both private developers and public agencies.
Based in Los Angeles, this Construction Estimator role provides a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant metropolitan area known for its diversity, dynamic construction market, and numerous public works initiatives. The city offers a stimulating environment for professionals seeking to advance their careers in construction estimating and project management.
Construction Estimator - Summary- Contribute to large-scale, bond-funded school district programs and other complex public works projects.
- Work as part of a collaborative team to facilitate accurate project budgeting and cost control.
- Engage in all aspects of the estimation process, from pre-construction to post-completion analysis, ensuring successful project delivery.
- Develop technical expertise in cost estimation, document analysis, and risk assessment within a supportive and growth-oriented environment.
- Prepare independent cost estimates at various stages of design, supporting effective project planning and decision-making.
- Analyze construction drawings, specifications, requests for information (RFIs), and related documentation to develop accurate cost projections.
- Evaluate contractor bids and proposals, identifying scope gaps, cost discrepancies, and potential risks to ensure project integrity.
- Support the reconciliation process between independent estimates and contractor pricing, helping to establish informed negotiating positions.
- Assist in the development and pricing of change orders, using RFIs, request for clarification (RFCs), and project updates to define precise scopes of work.
- Participate in claim analysis by reviewing contractor requests and preparing cost evaluations to assist in dispute resolution.
- Conduct ongoing research into local labor, material, and market cost trends to maintain current and accurate pricing data for all estimates.
- Collaborate with project managers, owner’s representatives, and stakeholders to ensure alignment on project budgets and cost expectations.
- Provide support for procurement by reviewing bids, leveling proposals, and maintaining organized documentation.
- Contribute to the development and maintenance of cost databases and participate in historical benchmarking efforts.
- Competitive compensation aligned with relevant experience and industry standards.
- 80 hours of vacation time annually for work-life balance.
- 40 hours of sick time provided each year.
- 13 paid holidays to recognize important occasions and personal needs.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with employer contribution.
- 401(k) retirement plan with 100% employer match up to 4% and immediate vesting to support your financial future.
- Annual professional development allowance to encourage continued education and industry engagement.
- Opportunities to participate in industry events and seminars for professional growth and networking.
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a closely related field.
- Minimum of 2+ years of professional experience in construction estimating, preferably within public works or educational facility projects.
- Demonstrated knowledge of local construction costs, including labor and materials, especially within the Southern California market.
- Experience in preparing detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates from construction plans and specifications.
- Familiarity with the process of change order estimating and developing scope based on RFIs and RFCs.
- Ability to compare independent estimates with contractor proposals and identify variances.
- Previous exposure to claim analysis and contractor proposal review is preferred.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills, supporting collaboration within a team environment.
- Self-motivated, with the ability to manage tasks and priorities in a deadline-driven setting.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and estimating tools such as Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff (OST), or similar software platforms is considered a plus.
- Motivated and detail-oriented construction professional eager to advance their career in cost estimation and project controls.
- Proactive learner who values the opportunity to collaborate with experienced leaders and contribute to complex public works projects.
- Adaptable, organized, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
- Demonstrates a strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment to delivering high-quality results on every assignment.
- The Construction Estimator role offers significant career growth potential, with opportunities to expand responsibilities over time.
- Engage with a company that emphasizes professional development, technical excellence, and client-focused service.
- This position is a full-time opportunity, based in Los Angeles, offering exposure to a broad range of public sector and educational facility projects.
- Strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, ensuring all applicants receive equal consideration for employment.
- Click the application button to take the next step in your construction estimating career and become a valued member of a respected project management team.
EEO Statement: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.