Job Description

Position: Construction Estimator – Residential Remodeling & Custom Home Projects

Location: San Diego, CA

Compensation: $120,000 to $160,000 per year (depending on experience)

A fast-growing residential design-build firm is looking for a Construction Estimator to lead and build its estimating department from the ground up. This firm specializes in high-end home remodels, additions, and custom new builds , working directly with homeowners and architects who already have completed plans in place. The estimator will play a key role in creating accurate, competitive, and profitable proposals.

What You Will Be Doing (In Simple Terms)

You will review blueprints, floor plans, and material selections from designers and turn them into detailed cost estimates . Your job is to figure out what each project will cost, including labor, materials, subcontractors, and more. These estimates are used to create proposals for homeowners and help the company win new jobs while staying profitable.

Key Responsibilities

Build the Estimating Process from Scratch

Create templates, workflows, and cost-tracking systems using Buildertrend, Excel, and other tools

Develop a reliable and repeatable estimating system to support consistent project pricing

Estimate High-End Residential Projects

Generate accurate cost estimates for home remodels, additions, and new custom homes in the $200,000 to $3,000,000 range

Interpret architectural plans, finish schedules, and design specifications

Ensure Project Profitability

Create proposals that are competitive but still deliver healthy margins

Manage multiple estimates simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail

Collaborate with Teams and Trade Partners

Communicate with subcontractors, vendors, and designers to get accurate pricing and scope details

Coordinate with project managers and the sales team to ensure alignment on project scope and cost

Implement and Improve Technology

Use Buildertrend and other tools to streamline estimating

Suggest and implement new technologies or systems to improve speed and accuracy

Manage Subcontractor and Vendor Pricing

Build and maintain relationships with reliable subcontractors and suppliers

Ensure all pricing is up to date, accurate, and competitive

What We Are Looking For

Proven experience estimating residential construction projects in the $200,000 to $3,000,000 range

Ability to read and understand construction drawings, finish schedules, and spec sheets

Strong attention to detail and ability to create clean and accurate estimates

High proficiency in Excel and construction software such as Buildertrend

Strong organizational skills and ability to manage several estimates at once

Excellent communicator who can work effectively with internal and external teams

Experience creating or building out estimating systems is highly preferred

Familiarity with the San Diego residential construction market, including trades and permitting

Self-motivated professional who thrives in a fast-paced and growing environment

A residential ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) and custom home estimator creates profitable proposals by carefully balancing cost accuracy , market competitiveness , and margin protection . Here's how they do it, broken down in clear and practical terms:

🔍 1. Detailed Plan Review

• Understand the full scope by reviewing architectural plans, site conditions, and design intent
• Flag potential cost risks or scope gaps early (e.g., poor soil, utility access, fire setbacks)

📊 2. Accurate Cost Breakdown

• Build a line-by-line estimate that includes:
• Materials (accurate takeoffs)
• Labor (with crew productivity assumptions)
• Subcontractor quotes
• Equipment & rentals
• Permits, inspections, and city fees
• Site-specific factors (demo, grading, haul-off, etc.)

✅ Use real, current pricing from trusted vendors and subs—not outdated templates.

💰 3. Apply Realistic Markups

• Add markups for:
• Overhead (insurance, office, admin, software)
• Profit margin (typically 10–20%, depending on the market and project type)

📌 Custom home projects may allow for higher margins due to complexity and client customization.

🔄 4. Vendor/Subcontractor Negotiation

• Collect multiple bids for key trades (e.g., framing, concrete, MEP)
• Vet subs for scope completeness—not just low price
• Build in contingency buffer (usually 5–10%) for unforeseen costs

💬 5. Client Expectation Management

• Present a clear, itemized proposal —not just a lump sum
• Explain allowances (e.g., finish materials, appliances) and what’s included vs. excluded
• Avoid over-promising—accurate expectations lead to smoother builds and better profits

🧰 6. Use Estimating Tools/Systems

• Leverage tools like Buildertrend, CoConstruct, Clear Estimates, or Excel templates
• Keep a cost history database for past projects to benchmark pricing
• Standardize templates to reduce errors and increase speed

📈 7. Factor in Schedule & Cash Flow

• Account for project duration when applying margin and payment schedules
• Proposals should reflect realistic timelines so you’re not undercharging for long projects

✅ Bonus Profitability Tips

• Track wins and misses on each project post-construction to refine future estimates
• Build strong relationships with vendors/subs to get better pricing and terms
• Stay educated on local building code changes and market price shifts

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