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Novak Construction

Senior Estimator

Novak Construction, Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60290

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Location:

Chicago, IL (Onsite)

About Novak Construction Founded in 1980 and headquartered in Chicago, Novak Construction is a premier national general contractor and construction management firm. We specialize in complex, high-profile projects across retail, industrial, institutional, healthcare, and mixed-use sectors. Our combination of technical expertise, progressive management tools, and commitment to client satisfaction makes us a trusted partner in the construction industry.

Position Overview Novak Construction is seeking a Senior Estimator to join our Preconstruction and Estimating team. The Senior Estimator will prepare budgets, estimates, and pre-bid packages for commercial construction projects under GMP, lump sum, and competitive bid structures. This role includes developing schematic, design development, and construction document estimates; soliciting and evaluating subcontractor bids; performing quantity take-offs; and reviewing project plans and specifications for renovations and new construction. As a customer-facing role, the Senior Estimator will interact directly with clients, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure alignment on project goals, scope, and budgets.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and coordinate the estimating process and delivery of estimate packages

Analyze drawings and specifications to determine full scope of work and ensure accurate documentation

Develop comprehensive, accurate estimates for projects of varying complexity

Evaluate bid documents, identify risks and opportunities, and provide actionable insights to management

Organize subcontractor and vendor bids, providing leadership on means, methods, schedules, and strategy

Participate in RFP responses and pursuit of new work

Perform detailed quantity take-offs and production cost estimates

Solicit, organize, and analyze subcontractor and vendor pricing

Attend pre-bid meetings, site tours, and post-bid interviews as required

Review drawings for constructability and monitor actual vs. estimated costs

Maintain subcontractor database and prequalification records

Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, design teams, subcontractors, and suppliers

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or Architecture preferred, or equivalent experience

Minimum 10 years of preconstruction, estimating, or operations experience in commercial construction

Experience with industrial, warehouse, refrigerated buildings, commercial, and retail projects, including renovations and new construction

Knowledgeable in civil/site, structural systems, interior/exterior finishes, mechanical/electrical systems, and associated costs

Proven experience in client-facing interactions, including communicating budgets, project scope, and constructability with clients and design teams

Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced environment

Light travel as required for site visits and pre-bid meetings

Proficient in Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, Autodesk/ProCore, OST, and ITB software

Strong organizational, written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

Detail-oriented, flexible, collaborative, and self-motivated

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

Comprehensive benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and sick time

Annual discretionary performance bonus

Additional allowances and benefits depending on experience and role requirements

Equal Opportunity Employer Novak Construction provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

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