Construction Estimator
Chavezfoundation, Bakersfield, CA, United States
About the Cesar Chavez Foundation
The Cesar Chavez Foundation is dedicated to enriching the lives of Latinos and working families by preserving, promoting, and applying the legacy of Cesar Chavez. Through our Housing and Economic Development division, we build and revitalize communities with high-quality, affordable housing and infrastructure that reflect our commitment to dignity, equity, and sustainability.
Position Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented and mission-driven Estimator to support the planning and budgeting of environmental restoration and infrastructure projects that align with our community development goals. This role is essential to ensuring our projects are financially sound, compliant with regulatory standards, and reflective of our values.
The Estimator will collaborate with project managers, engineers, ecologists, and contractors to interpret technical plans and develop reliable cost estimates. The ideal candidate brings experience in construction or restoration estimating, strong analytical skills, and a passion for community-centered development.
Key Responsibilities
Analyze project plans, technical drawings, and bid specifications
Develop accurate cost estimates for restoration and infrastructure projects
Collaborate across departments to align budgets with compliance and funding required
Work with Director of construction in creating unit costs based off our “design criteria”
Provide detailed estimates using subcontractor feedback and detailed take-offs.
Create qualifications and assumptions list with estimate as a record of what was assumed at time of estimate.
Maintain a log of unit costs as reference for future estimates or cost disputes during the construction process.
Assist in the buyout process by creating a sub list and sending out for bid (with Construction Team feedback).
Do follow ups for sub bids and putting together bid evaluations to help level bid numbers.
Send bid evaluations to construction managers for further review and make recommendations (but Construction Manager can modify and add to bid evaluation and has the final say on subcontractor award).
Required Skills & Knowledge
Proficiency in AutoCAD, GIS, and advanced Excel functions
Strong understanding of construction estimating
Strong use in Pro-core
Ability to manage multiple deadlines and shifting priorities
Excellent communication and documentation skills
Experience with data collection, analysis, and reporting
Qualifications Required:
5+ years of experience in estimating, construction management, or project budgeting
Advanced Excel skills and ability to interpret technical documents
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to field sites across California
Familiarity with nonprofit development, affordable housing, or community infrastructure
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Generous paid time off and holidays
Flexible work arrangements and supportive team culture
EE Type Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
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The Cesar Chavez Foundation is dedicated to enriching the lives of Latinos and working families by preserving, promoting, and applying the legacy of Cesar Chavez. Through our Housing and Economic Development division, we build and revitalize communities with high-quality, affordable housing and infrastructure that reflect our commitment to dignity, equity, and sustainability.
Position Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented and mission-driven Estimator to support the planning and budgeting of environmental restoration and infrastructure projects that align with our community development goals. This role is essential to ensuring our projects are financially sound, compliant with regulatory standards, and reflective of our values.
The Estimator will collaborate with project managers, engineers, ecologists, and contractors to interpret technical plans and develop reliable cost estimates. The ideal candidate brings experience in construction or restoration estimating, strong analytical skills, and a passion for community-centered development.
Key Responsibilities
Analyze project plans, technical drawings, and bid specifications
Develop accurate cost estimates for restoration and infrastructure projects
Collaborate across departments to align budgets with compliance and funding required
Work with Director of construction in creating unit costs based off our “design criteria”
Provide detailed estimates using subcontractor feedback and detailed take-offs.
Create qualifications and assumptions list with estimate as a record of what was assumed at time of estimate.
Maintain a log of unit costs as reference for future estimates or cost disputes during the construction process.
Assist in the buyout process by creating a sub list and sending out for bid (with Construction Team feedback).
Do follow ups for sub bids and putting together bid evaluations to help level bid numbers.
Send bid evaluations to construction managers for further review and make recommendations (but Construction Manager can modify and add to bid evaluation and has the final say on subcontractor award).
Required Skills & Knowledge
Proficiency in AutoCAD, GIS, and advanced Excel functions
Strong understanding of construction estimating
Strong use in Pro-core
Ability to manage multiple deadlines and shifting priorities
Excellent communication and documentation skills
Experience with data collection, analysis, and reporting
Qualifications Required:
5+ years of experience in estimating, construction management, or project budgeting
Advanced Excel skills and ability to interpret technical documents
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to field sites across California
Familiarity with nonprofit development, affordable housing, or community infrastructure
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Generous paid time off and holidays
Flexible work arrangements and supportive team culture
EE Type Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
#J-18808-Ljbffr