Lead Estimator

Lead Estimator - Commercial Construction | Waxahachie, TXOverview We are partnered with a growth-focused commercial general contractor who is going through an exciting period of change under strong leadership, who are now looking for an experienced Estimator to join their team and lead preconstruction pricing across North Texas. In this role, you'll take ownership of conceptual budgeting, value engineering, and strategic subcontractor alignment across ground-up commercial, industrial, medical, and retail projects. You'll be part of a fresh leadership team making a real difference to an established contractor with a reputation for quality. Key Responsibilities Develop detailed, reliable cost projections from schematic drawings, spatial plans, and client conversations. Solicit competitive trade quotes, perform scope gap analyses, and leverage your regional network. Work directly with owners, developers, and design teams to propose cost-effective material and structural alternatives. Compile comprehensive cost estimates, schedule values, and detailed budget notes for turnkey design-build proposals. Partner with project management and field ops teams to ensure smooth buyouts and accurate budget handoffs. Qualifications and Requirements 5+ years experience of estimating experience within a commercial general contractor, ideally handling ground-up builds in the $5-20M+ range. Proven track record with design-build, negotiated, or conceptual preconstruction workflows. Proficiency with digital takeoff tools such as Bluebeam or Plan Swift, estimating software, and Microsoft Excel. Understanding of local subcontractor pricing, material trends, and labor costs. Excellent negotiation skills and the professional presence to present budgets to project owners and key stakeholders. Package and Benefits Base salary between $110,000 and $140,000 based on experience and proven design build track record. Generous performance based bonus tied to project success and bid conversion rates. Company benefits including medical, dental, vision insurance, PTO, and 401(k) with company match.