Cost Estimator | CM
E-Frontiers, Chicago, IL, United States
A leading construction consultancy is seeking an experienced Cost Estimator to join its growing team in Chicago. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded estimating professional to support high-profile projects across commercial interiors, ground-up developments, mission critical, healthcare, education, and major capital programs.
The Cost Estimator will play a key role in delivering accurate, defensible cost plans and estimates while supporting clients with strategic commercial insight throughout the full project lifecycle.
Develop detailed cost estimates and cost plans from early concept through construction documentation
Interpret drawings, specifications, and project requirements to validate scope and pricing assumptions
Complete full quantity take-offs across civil/sitework, structural, architectural, and MEP trades
Engage subcontractors and suppliers to secure competitive and complete trade pricing
Perform bid analysis, scope leveling, and trade comparisons to ensure estimate accuracy and completeness
Support change management including change order review, cost impact assessments, and budget reconciliation
Contribute to value engineering exercises and cost optimization strategies
Attend site visits, pre-bid meetings, and project coordination sessions as required
Produce high-quality cost reports, estimate narratives, and client-ready documentation
Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or related field (preferred)
Proven estimating experience across vertical construction projects (interiors and/or ground-up)
Strong understanding of construction means, methods, sequencing, and trade packaging
Ability to deliver both conceptual budgets and detailed bid-level estimates
Familiarity with delivery models such as Design-Bid-Build, CM at Risk, and Design-Build
Proficiency with estimating software, digital takeoff tools, and advanced Excel cost modeling
Exposure to BIM-enabled estimating is a plus
Strong communication skills with the ability to operate in a client-facing consultancy environment
Work on high-value, complex construction programs with leading clients
Be part of a high-performing consultancy team delivering premium commercial advisory services
Strong career growth potential in a structured, professional environment
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The Cost Estimator will play a key role in delivering accurate, defensible cost plans and estimates while supporting clients with strategic commercial insight throughout the full project lifecycle.
Develop detailed cost estimates and cost plans from early concept through construction documentation
Interpret drawings, specifications, and project requirements to validate scope and pricing assumptions
Complete full quantity take-offs across civil/sitework, structural, architectural, and MEP trades
Engage subcontractors and suppliers to secure competitive and complete trade pricing
Perform bid analysis, scope leveling, and trade comparisons to ensure estimate accuracy and completeness
Support change management including change order review, cost impact assessments, and budget reconciliation
Contribute to value engineering exercises and cost optimization strategies
Attend site visits, pre-bid meetings, and project coordination sessions as required
Produce high-quality cost reports, estimate narratives, and client-ready documentation
Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or related field (preferred)
Proven estimating experience across vertical construction projects (interiors and/or ground-up)
Strong understanding of construction means, methods, sequencing, and trade packaging
Ability to deliver both conceptual budgets and detailed bid-level estimates
Familiarity with delivery models such as Design-Bid-Build, CM at Risk, and Design-Build
Proficiency with estimating software, digital takeoff tools, and advanced Excel cost modeling
Exposure to BIM-enabled estimating is a plus
Strong communication skills with the ability to operate in a client-facing consultancy environment
Work on high-value, complex construction programs with leading clients
Be part of a high-performing consultancy team delivering premium commercial advisory services
Strong career growth potential in a structured, professional environment
#J-18808-Ljbffr