Senior Estimator

Job description

Overview: Cullen Construction is a third generation company started in 1953 by Edward E. Cullen. Built from a foundation committed to integrity and excellence, today's Cullen Construction continues this legacy of high quality building standards by combining professional project management and field supervision with strong administrative and design support. Today, Cullen Construction maintains the highest standards by employing the finest and most dedicated craftsmen, designers and support staff. Our team members and subcontractors are committed to an outstanding level of detail throughout every phase of construction; from initial designs to the final walk-through. Cullen’s carpenters and craftsmen have over 100 years of experience in residential building and fine carpentry to help bring your project to life. Position: Our Senior Estimator is responsible for leading the pre-construction and estimating process for our luxury custom residential projects. This role is responsible for developing accurate, comprehensive project budgets and proposals while collaborating closely with clients, architects, designers, subcontractors, and internal teams. The Senior Estimator plays a critical role in setting projects up for success by evaluating plans and specifications, identifying cost-saving opportunities, managing vendor and subcontractor pricing, and ensuring a seamless transition from pre-construction to project execution. This is an excellent opportunity for a construction professional who combines strong analytical skills with a collaborative, client-focused approach and a passion for delivering exceptional custom homes. Primary Responsibilities: Lead the estimating process for luxury custom residential construction projects, from conceptual budgeting through final proposal development. Collaborate with clients, architects, designers, and internal teams to define project scope, requirements, and construction objectives. Prepare detailed cost estimates, budgets, and proposals by analyzing plans, specifications, materials, labor, and subcontractor pricing. Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate pricing from subcontractors and vendors to ensure competitive, accurate, and comprehensive project budgets. Review architectural, civil, and structural drawings to identify project requirements, potential challenges, and opportunities for cost optimization. Develop value engineering recommendations and alternative solutions that align with project goals, design intent, and budget expectations. Partner closely with Project Administrators, Site Supervisors, and trade partners during pre-construction to ensure alignment between budgets and design development. Lead proposal presentations and pre-construction meetings, communicating project scope, budgets, construction approaches, and recommendations to clients and project stakeholders. Maintain estimating databases, pricing resources, and project documentation to support consistency and accuracy across projects. Facilitate a seamless transition from preconstruction to construction by providing complete project documentation, budgets, scope details, and handoff materials to the project team. Provide support with contract administration, change orders, permitting, scheduling, and project documentation as needed. Serve as a mentor and resource to Project Administrator/Estimators by providing guidance, training, and support related to estimating processes and project coordination. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships and confidently interact with clients, architects, designers, subcontractors, and internal teams. Strong knowledge of residential construction methods, sequencing, estimating principles, and project delivery processes. Exceptional analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with a high level of attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously. Proactive, resourceful, and solutions-oriented mindset with the ability to navigate challenges, drive progress, and adapt in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency with estimating software, project management platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite; experience with Buildertrend or similar construction management software is preferred. Strong presentation, relationship-building, and business development skills, with experience leading budget, proposal, and pre-construction discussions that support successful project acquisition. Experience Requirements: Bachelors degree in Accounting or Business Administration or equivalent field required. Experience considered in lieu of education. Minimum of 7 years of experience in a project estimating, or client-facing role within the residential construction, interior design, or architectural industry. Proven experience supporting complex, multi-phase construction or renovation projects from start to finish. Prior experience working with luxury residential projects or ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) clients strongly preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Suite, Excel, Teams; experience with project management or construction software, BuilderTrend preferred.