Project Estimator

FCL Builders • Full-time • Itasca, IL • $90k - $120k / year • 1h ago

Build More Than Just Buildings—Build Your Career.
At FCL, we don’t just build buildings—we build communities, careers, relationships, and trust. As an Estimator, you’ll be at the heart of our projects, helping ensure accurate costs, timelines, and resources for everything we build. If you have a passion for problem-solving, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and want to grow in the construction industry, this is your opportunity.

Why Join FCL Builders?

Make an Impact: You’ll play a key role in projects that transform communities and industries across the country.
Become an Employee Owner: Partner and collaborate with experienced professionals who are invested in your success.
Grow With Us: Our Estimators are on a clear path to becoming Senior Estimators, Project Managers, and beyond.
Supportive Culture: We believe in mentorship, open communication, and having each other’s backs.
Great People, Great Workplace: FCL is proud to be certified as a Great Place to Work for the second year in a row! Our company culture is our top priority.

What You’ll Do:
Project Bidding

Develop accurate estimates for construction projects from conceptual designs through to detailed project specifications.
Participate in pre-bidding decision-making processes, including reviewing preliminary designs, visiting sites, and collaborating with subcontractors during the bidding phase.
Prepare internal cost estimates and review subcontractor proposals.
Evaluate and analyze subcontractor bids to identify risks and qualified subcontractors for the project.
Create cost summaries, including general conditions, insurance, taxes, and additional project-specific costs.
Perform quantity takeoffs using on-screen takeoff software.
Develop project RFIs to clarify scope with owners/clients.
Present value engineering ideas to improve design and reduce costs.

Planning & Coordination

Work with architects, developers, and consultants to manage the design/build process.
Review design documents to ensure compliance with specifications and project budget.
Work with the Business Development team to prepare compelling client presentations.
Demonstrate cost trends and provide analysis to explain any changes.
Identify when to be conservative or aggressive in estimates to ensure competitive bids.

Data Quality

Prepare and maintain accurate reports and bid documents.
Review project documents for accuracy, ensuring all data is correct and properly documented.
Analyze data to ensure estimates are as accurate as possible.
Review plans and specifications to understand project scope and communicate it effectively to the team.

Relationship Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors and vendors to reduce risk and improve project outcomes.
Maintain clear communication between clients, production teams, and internal departments.

What We’re Looking For:

A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
Previous industrial construction estimating experience, ideally in distribution, cold storage, manufacturing, or data centers.
Strong understanding of accounting and project management principles.
Familiarity with estimation metrics, data analysis, and research methods.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and job specifications.
Basic understanding of scheduling and construction sequences.
Proficiency with Bluebeam or on-screen takeoff software.
Intermediate to advanced skills in MS Excel.
Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines.
Capacity to manage multiple bids simultaneously.

What We Offer:

Competitive salary and bonus structure.
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
Career development and mentorship programs.
Comprehensive and competitive benefits (health, dental, vision, and more).
Paid time off and holidays.
An inclusive, collaborative culture where your voice matters.

Ready to build your future with FCL?
Apply today and let’s grow together.

FCL Builders is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity.  All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected status.  FCL Builders does not sponsor applicants for work visas.

FCL Builders participates in E-Verify, click here to view the Right to Work Poster.

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