Estimator (Residential)

TL;DR

Estimator (Residential): Own estimating and purchasing for residential new homes, custom homes, and portfolio products with an accent on cost control, budget accuracy, vendor strategy, and value engineering. Focus on leading bid solicitations, overseeing purchasing cycles, building trade relationships, and driving cost-optimization efforts.

On-site in Portage, MI. Comfort working primarily in an office setting with periodic visits to active job sites.

Company

Well-established construction and development company with high retention, internal promotions, and transparency guided by core values.

What you will do

• Lead estimating for residential new homes, custom builds, and portfolio products, delivering accurate budgets.
• Review plans, specifications, and market data to set cost targets and maintain budget integrity.
• Run bid solicitations, evaluate proposals, and award work to trade partners.
• Oversee purchasing cycle including POs, rebates, invoicing, and budget reconciliation.
• Build relationships with trades and suppliers for reliable pricing and supply continuity.
• Drive value engineering and cost-optimization with sales, selections, and construction teams.
• Monitor supply-chain trends, identify risks, and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Maintain job templates, cost codes, and databases in BuilderTrend and Sage; use Bluebeam effectively.

Requirements

• 5–7+ years of progressive residential estimating and purchasing experience with a homebuilder (new homes, custom, or multi-community).
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field (or equivalent).
• Strong ability to read and interpret residential construction drawings and specifications.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and BuilderTrend, Sage, Bluebeam (or similar tools).
• Strength in negotiation, analysis, organization, and follow-through.
• Collaborative approach partnering with sales, design, construction, and leadership.
• Experience improving estimating/purchasing processes using data.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System).

Culture & Benefits

• High retention and promotion from within.
• Transparency throughout the organization.
• Live by core values: do the right thing, client focused, positive attitude, team player, proud of work.
• Growth-minded residential group open to new ideas.