Chief Interior Estimator
Lingo Staffing, Inc., Richmond, VA, United States
Chief Estimator Commercial Interiors (Drywall & Framing)
Location: Richmond, VA (Relocation Assistance Available) Compensation: $150,000 $190,000 + Bonus About the Opportunity
Our client, a highly respected and growing commercial interiors contractor, is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead and elevate their preconstruction and estimating function. This is a key leadership role responsible for driving estimating strategy, overseeing project pricing, and supporting continued growth across the organization. The Chief Estimator will play a critical role in bid strategy, team leadership, and client engagement, ensuring the company remains competitive across a diverse portfolio of commercial interior projects. Project scopes include drywall, cold-formed metal framing (CFMF), non-structural framing, acoustical ceilings (ACT), insulation, and specialty interior systems, with project values ranging from $50K to $25M+. Key Responsibilities
Lead the estimating function, including oversight of bid strategy, pricing, and project selection Prepare and review detailed cost estimates including labor, materials, and production rates Analyze drawings, specifications, and schedules to ensure complete and accurate scope coverage Develop and maintain historical cost data, production rates, and estimating standards Collaborate closely with executive leadership, operations, and project management teams Drive bid strategy, hit-rate tracking, and forecasting to support company growth goals Build and maintain strong relationships with general contractors, vendors, and trade partners Support preconstruction efforts, including budgeting, value engineering, and scope alignment Oversee vendor buyout and procurement strategies for awarded work Provide leadership and mentorship within the estimating team (if applicable) Participate in client meetings, pre-bid walkthroughs, and strategic project pursuits Qualifications
Extensive experience in commercial drywall and interior systems estimating Strong background estimating CFMF and ACT scopes (required) Proven experience estimating projects in the $10M+ range Deep understanding of construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents Strong knowledge of production rates, labor modeling, and cost structures Experience with OST, QuickBid, Bluebeam, or similar estimating software Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment Demonstrated ability to contribute to strategic growth and business development efforts Experience & Background
8+ years of estimating experience within commercial construction (interiors preferred) Prior experience in a lead or senior-level estimating role strongly preferred Background in project management or field operations is a plus Strong communication skills with the ability to interface with clients and leadership Why This Role
Opportunity to step into a true leadership position with influence over company growth and direction Work with a well-established contractor with a strong pipeline of commercial interior projects Competitive compensation package with relocation support available Ability to make a direct impact on strategy, performance, and team development
Location: Richmond, VA (Relocation Assistance Available) Compensation: $150,000 $190,000 + Bonus About the Opportunity
Our client, a highly respected and growing commercial interiors contractor, is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead and elevate their preconstruction and estimating function. This is a key leadership role responsible for driving estimating strategy, overseeing project pricing, and supporting continued growth across the organization. The Chief Estimator will play a critical role in bid strategy, team leadership, and client engagement, ensuring the company remains competitive across a diverse portfolio of commercial interior projects. Project scopes include drywall, cold-formed metal framing (CFMF), non-structural framing, acoustical ceilings (ACT), insulation, and specialty interior systems, with project values ranging from $50K to $25M+. Key Responsibilities
Lead the estimating function, including oversight of bid strategy, pricing, and project selection Prepare and review detailed cost estimates including labor, materials, and production rates Analyze drawings, specifications, and schedules to ensure complete and accurate scope coverage Develop and maintain historical cost data, production rates, and estimating standards Collaborate closely with executive leadership, operations, and project management teams Drive bid strategy, hit-rate tracking, and forecasting to support company growth goals Build and maintain strong relationships with general contractors, vendors, and trade partners Support preconstruction efforts, including budgeting, value engineering, and scope alignment Oversee vendor buyout and procurement strategies for awarded work Provide leadership and mentorship within the estimating team (if applicable) Participate in client meetings, pre-bid walkthroughs, and strategic project pursuits Qualifications
Extensive experience in commercial drywall and interior systems estimating Strong background estimating CFMF and ACT scopes (required) Proven experience estimating projects in the $10M+ range Deep understanding of construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents Strong knowledge of production rates, labor modeling, and cost structures Experience with OST, QuickBid, Bluebeam, or similar estimating software Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment Demonstrated ability to contribute to strategic growth and business development efforts Experience & Background
8+ years of estimating experience within commercial construction (interiors preferred) Prior experience in a lead or senior-level estimating role strongly preferred Background in project management or field operations is a plus Strong communication skills with the ability to interface with clients and leadership Why This Role
Opportunity to step into a true leadership position with influence over company growth and direction Work with a well-established contractor with a strong pipeline of commercial interior projects Competitive compensation package with relocation support available Ability to make a direct impact on strategy, performance, and team development