ESTIMATOR
Portland, Maine
Preferred Construction Mgt. Co., Inc.
Full-Time * $100-120K
About PCM Company
PCM Company is a well-established professional construction consulting firm, founded in 1995, with a strong reputation for providing construction cost estimating, CPM scheduling, and a variety of project support services. With over three decades of experience, PCM serves a diverse clientele, including owners, architects, municipalities, state and government entities, and contractors across the United States.
Our extensive project portfolio spans multiple sectors, including Healthcare, Education, Laboratories, Transportation, Government, Municipal, Retail, Hospitality, and beyond. PCM is involved in projects ranging from new construction to renovations, additions, and historic restoration, showcasing our versatility and expertise across a wide range of construction needs.
Position Overview
The Estimator is a key member of the Estimating team, responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates for a broad range of construction projects. This role independently manages estimating efforts across assigned scopes, providing cost analysis, scope definition, and pricing strategies that support project feasibility and client decision-making.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Estimating & Quantity Takeoff
* Review and interpret drawings, specifications, and contract documents to define scope and identify risk.
* Perform detailed quantity takeoffs across multiple trades using estimating software.
* Develop conceptual, schematic, and detailed estimates based on project phase.
* Apply unit pricing, historical data, and market trends to produce accurate cost projections.
Bid Management & Subcontractor Relations
* Prepare and distribute bid packages and manage subcontractor solicitation.
* Receive, evaluate, and level subcontractor bids to ensure full scope coverage.
* Conduct pre-bid meetings and site visits as required.
* Maintain relationships with subcontractors and vendors.
Cost Analysis & Value Engineering
* Identify scope gaps, constructability issues, and value engineering opportunities.
* Analyze pricing discrepancies and develop cost comparisons.
* Prepare allowances, alternates, and cost narratives.
* Maintain and reference cost databases for benchmarking.
Preconstruction Coordination & Project Handoff
* Coordinate with project teams, clients, and design professionals during preconstruction.
* Participate in project meetings and provide cost updates.
* Prepare estimate summaries and support project handoff.
Systems, Compliance & Continuous Improvement
* Maintain estimate documentation, bid logs, and project files.
* Track estimate performance and support continuous improvement efforts.
* Stay informed on market conditions, pricing trends, and regulatory requirements.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education
* Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred.
* Equivalent combination of technical education and relevant field or office estimating experience will be considered.
Experience
* Minimum of 3–7 years of construction estimating experience, preferably in a general contracting or construction management consulting environment.
* Demonstrated experience estimating commercial, institutional, municipal, or industrial projects ranging from $1M to $50M+.
* Experience with all phases of preconstruction, from conceptual budgeting through GMP and hard-bid preparation.
Technical Skills
* Proficiency in On-Screen Takeoff (OST) for digital takeoffs.
* Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including structured cost modeling, formulas, and pivot tables.
* Working knowledge of CSI MasterFormat divisions and standard construction specifications.
* Ability to read and interpret civil, architectural, structural, MEP, and geotechnical drawings and specifications.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
* Strong analytical and mathematical aptitude; able to identify and resolve cost discrepancies under time pressure.
* Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present estimates and budget narratives to owners and executives.
* Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.
* Knowledge of state prevailing wage requirements, Davis-Bacon Act compliance, and State Department of Transportation (State DOT) procurement practices a strong plus.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative, cross-functional preconstruction team.
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
Office Environment
The primary work environment is a professional office setting. This role requires prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working at a computer, typically 8 hours per day. The office environment is generally quiet to moderately busy, with shared workspaces and collaborative open areas. Employees must be able to operate standard office equipment including computers, multi-line telephone systems, scanners, and large-format plotters.
Physical Demands
* Ability to sit for extended periods (up to 8 hours per day) while performing computer-based estimating work.
* Ability to stand, walk, and maneuver over uneven or sloped terrain during site visits.
* Ability to climb ladders and access elevated areas (scaffolding, roof decks) during field observations as needed.
* Ability to lift and carry materials, plans, or equipment up to 25 lbs. on an occasional basis.
* Ability to travel to project sites, client offices, and pre-bid meetings within the region, including occasional overnight travel.
* Ability to work extended hours during peak bid seasons, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends as deadlines require.
* Close visual acuity required for reading detailed construction drawings, reviewing contract documents, and extended screen work.
Work Schedule
Standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Benefits
* Full-time Salaried Position
* Health Insurance
* Medical
* Dental
* Vision
* Short Term/Long Term Disability
* Lift Insurance
* Identity Theft Coverage
* 401(k)
* Vacation/Paid Time Off
* Bonus Program (Company Success/Performance Based)
* Opportunity for Hybrid Flexibility
* Family-Owned and operated company with a strong, supportive culture
To Apply
Use the Apply button through the LWM website
or by directly emailing: makayla@pcmcompany.com
or through our website: https://pcmcompany.com/careers