The Project Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial and residential window, door, storefront, curtain wall, and glazing projects. This position reviews architectural drawings, specifications, and bid documents to determine project scope, material requirements, labor costs, and equipment needs. The estimator works closely with suppliers, project managers, architects, general contractors, and customers to ensure proposals are complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
Key Responsibilities:
- Review architectural drawings, specifications, addenda, and contract documents.
- Perform detailed material take-offs for aluminum windows, impact windows, storefront systems, curtain walls, glass doors, sliding glass doors, entrance systems, and glass railings (if applicable).
- Prepare accurate labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor cost estimates.
- Request and evaluate quotations from manufacturers and suppliers.
- Analyze project scope and identify potential risks, exclusions, and value engineering opportunities.
- Prepare professional proposals, quotations, and bid packages.
- Submit bids before deadlines and follow up with customers regarding proposals.
- Attend pre-bid meetings and job site visits when required.
- Coordinate with Project Managers during project handoff after award.
- Prepare pricing for change orders and contract modifications.
- Maintain estimating databases, vendor pricing, and historical cost information.
- Track bid results and identify opportunities for improving estimating accuracy.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with general contractors, architects, developers, and suppliers.
Required Qualifications:
- 3+ years of estimating experience in commercial windows, doors, glazing, or construction.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
- Strong knowledge of impact window systems, storefront systems, curtain wall systems, aluminum doors, and commercial glazing products.
- Experience with estimating software and digital takeoff programs (Bluebeam, OST, Planswift, or similar).
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Excellent mathematical, analytical, and organizational skills.
- Strong communication and negotiation abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously while meeting strict deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Knowledge of Florida Building Code and Miami-Dade NOA requirements.
- Familiarity with product approvals, wind-load calculations, and impact-resistant systems.
- Experience estimating projects for schools, hospitals, condominiums, high-rise buildings, and government facilities.
- Experience with AutoCAD or Revit is a plus.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
- Bid accuracy and profitability.
- Percentage of bids submitted on time.
- Bid win ratio.
- Estimate-to-final cost variance.
- Gross profit margin on awarded projects.
- Number of estimating errors or omissions.
- Customer response time.
- Successful coordination during project handoff.
Core Competencies:
- Attention to detail.
- Time management.
- Problem solving.
- Cost analysis.
- Negotiation.
- Customer service.
- Construction knowledge.
- Communication.
