Position Overview
We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Estimator / Bid Coordinator to support the estimating process for commercial construction bids. The projects primarily include quick service restaurants (QSR) such as Starbucks, full-service restaurants, and small to mid-size retail spaces.
This role is responsible for managing incoming bid requests, gathering project documentation, confirming scopes of work, preparing estimates, submitting bids, and conducting timely follow-ups with general contractors. The ideal candidate is proactive, comfortable on the phone, familiar with construction terminology, and able to manage multiple deadlines efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
1. Lead Intake & Email Monitoring (Daily Priority)
- Review incoming emails from general contractors for new bid opportunities.
- Prioritize time-sensitive bids and flag urgent deadlines.
- Log and organize new project requests for estimator review.
2. Blueprint & Document Retrieval
- Access project documents using Building Connected and PlanHub.
- Download, review, and organize blueprints and supporting files by store or project location.
- Before reviewing drawings, check all project documents for written scopes, which some GCs provide.
3. Scope Research & Clarification
- When scope of work is unclear or missing:
- Reach out via phone or email to the GC’s estimator or project manager.
- Ask whether they’ve completed similar build types and can share a breakdown.
- Request clarification directly from the PM if needed.
- Use professional and confident phone communication—often faster than email.
- Document all scope details received.
4. Estimate Preparation
- Build itemized estimates using Job Nimbus or Excel.
- Use existing store-specific templates when available.
- Create new templates for first-time builds to support future bids.
- Estimate labor and materials for trades including:
- Selective demolition
- Framing
- Drywall
- Millwork
- Finish carpentry
- Apply standardized production rates (e.g., linear foot, square footage pricing).
- Calculate man hours and material quantities accurately based on scope.
5. Bid Submission
- Email completed bids directly to the GC estimator with a professional message.
- Upload and submit bids in Building Connected or PlanHub as required.
- For projects with multiple GCs bidding the same site, use template files to generate multiple bids without duplicating customer records.
6. Bid Tracking & Follow-Up
- Log all bids with:
- Submission date
- GC name and estimator contact
- Project name/location
- Submission platform
- Due dates and follow-up reminders
- Follow up with GCs within appropriate timeframes (3–7 days or per project).
- Track response status: awarded, not awarded, pending, clarification needed, etc.
- Maintain up-to-date bid logs for internal reporting and historical reference.
Tools & Software
- Telephone (primary tool for scope confirmation and follow-up)
- Building Connected
- PlanHub
- Job Nimbus
- Microsoft Excel
- Email platforms (Gmail/Outlook)
Communication Expectations
- Confident and professional phone communication is essential.
- Use judgment when deciding to call vs. email—calling is often faster.
- Document all conversations and scope clarifications clearly.
- Follow up consistently to avoid missed opportunities or unanswered bids.
Required Knowledge (Trades We Bid)
- Selective demolition
- Framing
- Drywall
- Millwork
- Finish carpentry
Project Types
- Quick Service Restaurants (Starbucks, etc.)
- Full-Service Restaurants
- Small to Mid-Size Retail
Qualifications
- Experience in estimating support, construction admin, project coordination, or related roles preferred.
- Familiarity with commercial construction drawings and scopes of work.
- Strong Excel skills and ability to build and modify templates.
- Excellent communication skills (especially phone).
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines and bid schedules.
- Prior experience with Building Connected or PlanHub is a plus.
Ideal Candidate Traits
- Proactive communicator
- Strong analytical and organizational skills
- Comfortable working independently
- Quick learner with attention to detail
- Reliable and deadline-driven
