Estimator
VA
Description

  

Estimator


JANSON is recognized for delivering service-excellence through a disciplined approach of listening, thoughtful problem-solving, and execution. We are passionate about our work and committed to taking care of our customers, our employees, and our partners.


If you are driven to make a meaningful impact, support our customers’ missions, and advance your professional growth within a purpose-driven organization, we invite you to explore opportunities to join the JANSON team.


Position Summary


The Estimator supports the multi-site program by developing, validating, and maintaining project cost estimates from early design through construction. This role works closely with the Project Managers, design/A&E team, procurement, finance, contractors, and vendors to establish reliable budgets, evaluate design decisions, identify cost risks, and support change management.

Requirements

  

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop ROM, conceptual, design-development, and preconstruction estimates for each site.
  • Establish and maintain project budgets aligned with approved scope and design.
  • Perform quantity takeoffs and detailed cost analysis for construction, finishes, millwork, graphics, equipment, and other project components.
  • Coordinate with architects, designers, engineers, contractors, vendors, and procurement to validate pricing assumptions.
  • Maintain standardized estimating templates and cost benchmarks across the 12-site program.
  • Compare actual project costs against estimates and incorporate lessons learned into future site forecasts.
  • Lead value-engineering exercises and evaluate cost impacts of design alternatives.
  • Review GC/subcontractor bids for completeness, scope alignment, exclusions, and cost reasonableness.
  • Support bid leveling and contractor/vendor negotiations.
  • Develop independent cost estimates for proposed change orders and validate contractor pricing.
  • Identify budget risks, scope gaps, allowances, contingencies, and potential cost exposure.
  • Support Project Managers and Finance/Cost Control with forecasting and cost-to-complete information.
  • Track market pricing and escalation that could affect future program sites.

 Minimum Requirements and Qualifications

  • Degree: Bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, architecture, or accounting.
  • Experience: 2 to 5 years of general construction, project management, or hands-on field experience.
  • Alternative: Equivalent field experience (such as transitioning from a trade or assistant role) can sometimes substitute for a formal degree. 

Technical skills

  • Blueprints: Ability to read and interpret complex architectural drawings, structural plans, and technical specifications.
  • Software: High proficiency in Microsoft Excel and industry-specific tools like Bluebeam, Procore (preferred).
  • Math & Analysis: Advanced arithmetic and quantitative skills to calculate material volumes, labor hours, equipment costs, and waste factors.
  • Scope Understanding: Skill in recognizing scope gaps, pricing risk factors, and evaluating subcontractor bids.   

Certifications (Preferred)

  • PE: Certified Professional Estimator via the American Society of Professional Estimators.
  • CEP: Certified Estimating Professional via the Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering.

Soft Skills

  • Communication: Clear writing and verbal skills to present cost summaries and negotiate with vendors and clients. 
  • Detail-Oriented: High precision to prevent costly calculation errors.
  • Time Management: Ability to manage multiple overlapping project deadlines under pressure. 

Benefits at JANSON

JANSON provides a competitive benefits package with all the things we love and need:

  • Competitive base salary
  • Hybrid work flexibility
  • 401K with matching incentive
  • Short and Long-term disability
  • Life insurance
  • PTO
  • Paid holidays
  • Professional development opportunities
JANSON is an equal opportunity employer.


JANSON is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees. The following information is requested for affirmative action, equal employment opportunity, and government reporting purposes.


Providing this information is voluntary. Your responses will not be used in making employment decisions and will be maintained separately from your application and personnel records, as required by applicable law


We are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Contact hr@jansoncom.com for assistance.