The Construction Estimator prepares detailed cost estimates for construction projects. They analyze project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare requirements, material and labor estimates. They collaborate with construction project management, department leadership, and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and accurate estimates. They solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and vendor quotes. Conduct bid risk assessment and monetized quantifications. develop and write all bid packages and subcontractor scopes of work. Maintain and update historical costs data for future reference. Participate in bid review meetings and present estimates to department leadership. Assist in project set-up and provide cost control support during project execution.
What you will do:
Mentor and teach junior estimators
Perform value engineering and life-cycle costing
Participate in subcontractor selection and construction project kick-off decisions
Read and interpret project documents, understand project logistics, understand project schedule, and develop scopes of work
Perform detailed and accurate quantity of takeoffs and obtain material pricing. Enter data into estimating spreadsheets
Work with Milhouse management and field operation teams to estimate labor production rates, identify project efficiencies, and identify alternate approaches
Attend client pre-bid meetings, visit project sites, take notes, and assess site-specific conditions
Submit and follow up pre-bid requests for information
Prepare bids itemized in the specification section and detailed into labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and overhead costs
Present bids to management, succinctly explaining estimate details and project specifics
Prepare accurate and competitive hard bid construction cost estimates and submit formal proposals in a timely manner
Maintain detailed and orderly project files, adhering to Milhouse quality standards
Follow up on bid results
Build relationships with clients, contractors, and vendors
Perform peer reviews of estimates and proposals. Troubleshoot and resolve estimate issues
Maintain past performance databases and spreadsheets
Research data on industry standard labor production rates and material costs
Maintain the bid board, bid tracking logs, customer history, and material management
Identify and recommend improvements to the bidding process
Maintain professional & technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; and participating in professional societies
Who you are:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Architecture, Construction Management or Project Management
10+ years of Construction Management/General Contractor experience
7 years of experience estimating commercial carpentry projects that include framing, gypsum board, rough carpentry, finish carpentry, acoustical ceiling systems and doors
4 years of experience with estimating takeoff software
Experience estimating construction projects $50,000 to $5,000,000
Proficient in Microsoft Windows, Word, and Excel
Superior written and oral communication skills
Experience estimating commercial carpentry projects that include framing, gypsum board, rough carpentry, finish carpentry, acoustical ceiling systems and doors
Knowledge of applicable codes and standards
Experience with estimating takeoff software
Ability to work under pressure
Well-organized, flexible, detail oriented and have the ability to multi-task
Comfortable interacting with a wide variety of technical and business audiences
Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented environment
Ability to work within a climate that values learning as a lifelong professional requirement
Ability to work within a climate that views errors and failures as learning opportunities
Knowledge of applicable codes and standards
At Milhouse, we’re more than just a place to work — we’re a place to grow, thrive, and be celebrated. Here’s how we invest in you:
Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage – Reach out to learn how your deductible could be covered 100% through Garner Health!
Company Sponsored Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability – We’ve got your back when life takes unexpected turns.
Voluntary Coverages – Take control of your well-being with added coverage options.
Discounted Gym Membership – Stay active with wellness options that support your fitness goals.
Competitive Base Salary – Earn what you're worth in a performance-driven culture.
401(k) Retirement Plan – Build your future with confidence.
Professional Development Incentives – Get rewarded for growing your skills — including bonuses for earning your P.E. License.
Milhouse University (Cross-Functional Training) – Expand your expertise with internal training built to elevate your career and receive PDH credits for applicable training towards professional engineering licenses, etc..
Employee Education & Development Program – Tuition assistance and learning opportunities to keep you moving forward.
Generous PTO + Paid Holidays – Rest, recharge, and enjoy the moments that matter most.
Paid Parental Leave – Bond with your new arrival — and yes, we’ll even cover a year of diapers!
Extracurricular Sports Teams – Join our summer Volleyball and Softball squads for fun off the clock.
Employee Recognition Program – Be celebrated for the impact you make.
Employee Referral Bonus – Bring great people on board and get paid for it.
Transit Benefits Program – Save on your daily commute.
Charitable Events and Activities offered through non-profit affiliate – Milhouse Charities.
Milhouse is a pay transparency non-discrimination organization committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We ensure that all employees are compensated fairly and without bias, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, effective January 1, 2025, we include pay scales and benefits in all job postings and ensure that all promotion opportunities are communicated to current employees within 14 days of external postings. Additionally, we participate in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility and uphold compliance with federal requirements.
Why join the Construction team? Here's why:
Our Construction team is a blend of skillful professionals who work to support and learn from one another. Come grow with us as we learn to tackle a plethora of different projects in different areas of the Chicago-land region!
Milhouse Construction is a subsidiary of Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc. Milhouse Construction is a general contractor with a self-performing carpentry division. We perform both rough and finish carpentry, including framing, drywall, acoustical ceilings, millwork, doors, and other specialized carpentry work.
Here's a little information on Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.:
Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc. was founded in 2001 with the goal of building the best engineering company in the country. It was based on the belief that if we hired great people, fueled their passion while challenging them to excel, and maintained a laser focus on the needs of your clients, success would come- and so it has. Our portfolio of successful projects continues to grow, our family of highly satisfied clients continues to expand, and our staff just gets better and better.
We are a unique, Chicago-based firm whose collective passion, vision and expertise has led to phenomenal growth! With more than 500+ talented professionals and offices across the globe, Milhouse offers a dynamic work environment where there is no limit to what you can achieve if you are willing to go after it.
Important Notice to US Applicants
Milhouse Construction is an at-will employer.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
