Estimator - Exteriors

Job Description

Job Description

Summary

Bonitz, Inc., an employee-owned specialty commercial contractor, is seeking an Estimator – Exteriors to support the continued growth of our Cladding division. This role is responsible for performing accurate material takeoffs and cost estimates for exterior cladding and rainscreen projects, including fiber cement panels, metal panels, terra cotta, composite wood-look systems, and rainscreen assemblies.

The ideal candidate brings experience estimating vertical, three-dimensional building envelope work and how cladding packages come together on a commercial project. You will work directly with Product Specialist, Project Managers, and installation crews to ensure bids are competitive, complete, and delivered on time.

Company Overview

Founded in 1954, Bonitz is a 100% employee-owned (ESOP) company operating as a specialty trade commercial contractor across the Southeast. We design and install flooring, walls, ceilings, cladding, terrazzo, coatings, and sports flooring across 14 locations in SC, NC, GA, TN, VA, LA, and FL. Our Cladding division installs exterior systems that deliver thermal insulation, energy efficiency, soundproofing, and extended building lifecycle performance.

Position Essential Duties

• Support the Cladding division with timely, accurate estimates and material takeoffs for exterior envelope projects
• Manage multiple bid opportunities concurrently, maintaining quality and meeting deadlines
• Communicate proactively with Project Consultants, Project Managers, and sales team throughout the estimating process
• Work independently with minimal supervision while collaborating as part of a cross-functional team

Job Responsibilities

Pre-Construction

• Perform quantity takeoffs for cladding, rainscreen, related framing and window packages using On Screen Takeoff and Quick Bid
• Read, interpret, and analyze commercial construction drawings and exterior envelope specifications
• Determine materials, quantities, and labor requirements for cladding projects including fiber cement panels, metal panels, terra cotta, composite wood-look, and rainscreen systems
• Research products, assemblies, and manufacturer requirements; coordinate with vendors and suppliers as needed
• Attend preconstruction (Guardrail) meetings and contribute to bid strategy discussions
• Evaluate safety requirements specific to exterior and elevated work environments
• Prepare complete, competitive bid packages for general contractor submission

Construction Support

• Maintain working knowledge of active cladding projects across the division
• Assist Project Managers with change orders, scope revisions, and material adjustments throughout construction
• Respond with urgency to field-driven changes that impact project cost or schedule

Travel

• Minimal travel required for training, project site visits, or meetings at other Bonitz offices

Required Qualifications

• 2–5 years of estimating experience, preferably in commercial exterior or building envelope work
• Proficiency in Quick Bid and On Screen Takeoff (required)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Office 365)
• Experience reading and interpreting commercial construction drawings, elevations, and exterior detail sheets
• Understanding of vertical/3D construction assemblies — framing packages, window systems, and cladding installations
• Strong math, analytical, and critical thinking skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Must be able to pass a background, drug, and motor vehicle check
• Must be committed to working safely while accomplishing all tasks

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience estimating cladding, rainscreen, curtain wall, or exterior panel systems
• Trade background in framing, carpentry, or exterior building trades
• Experience in related industries: signage/architectural signage, general contracting, or multifamily construction
• Familiarity with framing packages, window and door schedules, and cladding scope integration
• Knowledge of cladding products and manufacturers (fiber cement, metal composite, terra cotta, phenolic, HPL)
• Understanding of relevant building codes including NFPA 285 and ASHRAE 90.1
• CAD or Bluebeam Revu experience
• Vendor and supplier relationships in the commercial exterior trades

Safety Requirements

• Ensure all safety training and certifications are current or scheduled
• Maintain compliance with all Bonitz safety policies to ensure a safe and efficient workplace
• Must be committed to working safely while accomplishing all tasks
• Participate in office safety inspections when asked

Why Bonitz?

• 100% Employee-Owned (ESOP)
• Growing Cladding division with expanding project pipeline and market opportunity
• Work on high-visibility commercial exteriors that define how buildings look and perform
• 70+ years of stability as a specialty commercial contractor
• Collaborative culture with career growth opportunities across divisions
• Competitive compensation, benefits, and long-term wealth building through ESOP