Estimator

Job Description

Job DescriptionJob Title: Estimator Location: Barnegat, NJ Type: Direct Hire Opportunity Compensation: $35.00-$40.00 / hr. Contractor Work Model: Onsite Hours: 8:00 AM-4:30 PM Monday-Friday

Job Summary: The Estimator prepares accurate cost estimates and budgets for multifamily and affordable housing construction projects, including LIHTC developments. This role works closely with development, construction, and design teams to evaluate project costs, obtain subcontractor pricing, and support project planning while ensuring budgets align with project requirements and funding guidelines. Estimator Job Duties:

• Review architectural, civil, structural, MEP, and landscape plans, specifications, and project documents to prepare detailed cost estimates for multifamily apartment communities and affordable housing developments.

• Perform quantity takeoffs and estimate labor, materials, equipment, subcontractor, and general conditions costs for ground-up construction and rehabilitation projects.
• Solicit, evaluate, and analyze subcontractor and supplier proposals to ensure competitive, complete, and accurate pricing.
• Develop and maintain conceptual, schematic, design development, and final construction estimates throughout the project lifecycle.
• Collaborate with Development, Construction, Architecture, and Property Management teams to identify cost-saving opportunities and value-engineering solutions while maintaining project quality and compliance requirements.
• Assist in the preparation of project budgets, financing applications, LIHTC submissions, and lender/investor due diligence materials as needed.
• Track market conditions, labor trends, material pricing, and subcontractor availability to support accurate forecasting and budgeting.
• Develop and maintain estimating databases, unit cost benchmarks, historical project data, and cost models for multifamily construction.
• Prepare bid comparisons, scope analyses, and recommendations for subcontractor awards.
• Support change order pricing, budget updates, and cost analyses throughout construction.
• Participate in preconstruction meetings and coordinate with internal stakeholders to ensure project alignment and budget compliance.
• Understand and incorporate applicable affordable housing requirements, accessibility standards, energy-efficiency programs, and local regulatory requirements into project estimates.

Estimator Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of estimating experience in multifamily, commercial, mixed-use, or affordable housing construction.
• Experience with LIHTC, affordable housing, HUD, agency-financed, or public-private partnership projects preferred.
• Strong understanding of multifamily construction methods, building systems, construction drawings, specifications, and trade scopes.
• Knowledge of applicable building codes, ADA/Fair Housing accessibility requirements, and affordable housing development processes.
• Proficiency in estimating software and digital takeoff platforms.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with cost databases and budget modeling.
• Excellent mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and organizational abilities with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Experience with value engineering, conceptual estimating, and budget development preferred.