Construction Estimator

Description

The Construction Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive cost estimates and supporting the sales process for the design and installation of fire alarm and fire sprinkler systems in commercial, government, educational, and institutional facilities. This role serves as a critical link between customers, sales, engineering, and operations by qualifying opportunities, preparing estimates, proposals, and supporting bid submissions from initial inquiry through contract award.

This position is office based and focused on plan review, pricing, proposal development, and customer interaction rather than relationship management.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Estimating & Proposal Development

• Review construction documents, drawings, specifications, and scopes of work for fire alarm and fire sprinkler systems.

• Perform detailed quality takeoffs and cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and design services.

• Prepare complete, accurate, and competitive proposals in accordance with bid requirements, company standards, and applicable codes.

• Develop pricing strategies that balance competitiveness, risk, and profitability.

• Identify scope gaps, exclusions, assumptions, and clarifications and clearly document them in proposals.

Inside Sales & Customer Support

• Serve as a key point of contact for general contractors, owners, architects, engineers, and purchasing departments during the bidding and proposal phase.

• Respond to bid invitations, RFQs, and customer inquiries in a timely and professional manner.

• Support the sales team by answering technical questions related to fire alarm and fire sprinkler system scope, code requirements, and system functionality.

• Participate in bid reviews, scope discussions, and value engineering conversations with customers.

• Assist with follow-up communications to clarify proposals and support contract award efforts.

Technical & Code Knowledge

• Apply working knowledge of applicable codes and standards, including but not limited to NFPA 13, NFPA 72, NFPA 20, IBC, IFC, and local AHJ requirements.

• Interpret specifications and drawings to ensure proposed systems meet code, project requirements, and customer expectations.

• Coordinate with engineering, design, and operations teams to confirm constructability and compliance.

Data Management & Process Support

• Maintain accurate records of bids, proposals, pricing, and correspondence in company systems.

• Track bid status, award notifications, and project handoffs to operations.

• Assist with post bid reviews to evaluate estimating accuracy and improve future performance.

• Support continuous improvement of estimating tools, pricing models, and proposal templates.

Requirements

Required

• 2+ years of experience in fire protection estimating, inside sales, or related construction estimating, preferably in fire alarm and/or fire sprinkler systems.

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents.

• Working knowledge of commercial fire protection systems and applicable codes.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).

• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.

Preferred

• Experience estimating both fire alarm and fire sprinkler systems.

• Familiarity with estimating software, take-off tools, or construction management platforms.

• Experience working with general contractors, public sector bids, and institutional projects.

• NICET certification (any level) or willingness to pursue certification.

Key Competencies

• Analytical and detail oriented

• Strong organizational and time management skills

• Customer focused with a sales mindset

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Sound judgment in pricing and risk assessment

Physical & Work Environment

• Office based position with prolonged periods of computer and phone use.

• Occasional site visits or meetings may be required.

• Standard business hours with flexibility during bid deadlines.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience

• Performance based incentives or bonuses (where applicable)

• Health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits

• Paid time off and holidays

• Training and professional development opportunities