Chief Estimator

Location: Stamford, CT (In-Person Position)

About BLT

Building and Land Technology (BLT) is a vertically integrated real estate development, investment, and property management firm with a diverse portfolio spanning multifamily, commercial office, retail, and hospitality properties.

BLT is seeking an experienced and hands-on Chief Estimator to lead estimating efforts for complex mid- to high-rise residential and commercial office developments in Stamford, CT. This role is responsible for preparing and managing project estimates, developing budgets, evaluating subcontractor pricing, and supporting preconstruction planning from early design through bid execution and project turnover.

The ideal candidate is a highly skilled construction estimator with experience preparing detailed estimates for large-scale ground-up projects. This individual is collaborative, analytical, and thrives in a fast-paced environment while partnering closely with development, construction, architecture, engineering, and project management teams.

Responsibilities of the Chief Estimator

• Lead estimating efforts for residential and commercial construction projects from conceptual design through bid completion.
• Prepare conceptual budgets, detailed estimates, GMPs, hard bids, and cost analyses for complex ground-up construction projects.
• Develop accurate estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and construction facilities across various contract types, including lump sum, negotiated, GMP, and time-and-material contracts.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs, pricing analysis, scope reviews, constructability reviews, and value engineering exercises.
• Review architectural, structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings, specifications, and contract documents to develop complete project estimates.
• Solicit subcontractor and supplier pricing, evaluate proposals, identify scope gaps, and prepare comprehensive bid comparisons.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, consultants, and industry partners.
• Collaborate closely with development, construction, architecture, engineering, and project management teams to establish project budgets and support project feasibility.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, design coordination meetings, and project planning sessions.
• Prepare cost reports, estimate summaries, budget updates, and presentations for project teams and senior leadership.
• Maintain historical cost databases, benchmarking information, and estimating resources to improve estimating accuracy and forecasting.
• Monitor labor markets, subcontractor availability, material pricing, and industry trends affecting construction costs.
• Support project teams throughout the preconstruction process by updating estimates as designs evolve.
• Identify value engineering opportunities while maintaining project quality, constructability, and schedule objectives.
• Collaborate with operations and project management teams to support successful project turnover and execution.

Qualifications of the Chief Estimator

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred.
• 7-10+ years of progressive estimating experience in commercial, multifamily, mixed-use, or high-rise construction.
• Proven experience independently preparing conceptual estimates, detailed estimates, hard bids, GMPs, and cost analyses for ground-up construction projects.
• Strong knowledge of construction means and methods, building systems, scheduling, and project sequencing.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and competing priorities while meeting project deadlines.
• Advanced understanding of construction drawings, specifications, scopes of work, and contract documents.
• Strong analytical, organizational, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively alongside ownership, developers, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and construction teams.
• Advanced proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Office, including Excel, Project, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, and database systems.
• Prior experience mentoring junior estimators or providing technical guidance is a plus.

Benefits Offered to the Chief Estimator

• Competitive compensation package with bonus potential
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Life Insurance
• Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Sick Leave
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Housing Discount at BLT Properties

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

BLT is an equal opportunity employer. Please note that this job description is intended to outline the general nature and key responsibilities of the role. It is not a comprehensive list, and duties may evolve over time based on business needs.

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