Chief Estimator
McDonnel Group LLC
Metairie, Louisiana 70002

Job Description

  • Complete conceptual estimates as directed
  • Assist in preconstruction on projects as directed (value engineering, coordination with design team, communication with subs / suppliers)
  • Maintain Timberline database with accurate, up to date material cost for concrete and carpentry items
  • Understand entire scope of work for assigned bid projects and inform entire bid team of specific items to account for and items that need to be coordinated
  • Understand and identify the risks associated with the project
  • Accurate analysis of building system requirements and functions (skin, code, safety, energy calculations, etc.); Identify and account for on the bid
  • Accurate scope identification for assigned bid sections
  • Sub / Supplier contact to ensure adequate number of bids are received
  • Adherence to bid schedule issued
  • Identify and communication with design team regarding potential design deficiencies / items missing from bid documents required to complete the estimate
  • Maintain knowledge of industry trends and pricing

Bid Package Management

o Create bid packages within Dodge

o Assign appropriate spec sections

o Complete project description

o Select appropriate subs / suppliers to invite for each bid from the vendor database

o Send out initial invitation to bid

  • Complete Bid Summary sheet
  • Takeoff all GSF, site fill, concrete and carpentry items on all bids
  • Estimate amounts for all self-performed items in each bid
  • Timely completion of bid tab sheets (accurate scope listing, accurate knowledge of bidders / major equipment & material suppliers)
  • Accurate analysis of bid day quotes prior to numbers being input into estimate
  • Usable summary of all concrete items for field use on awarded projects
  • Identify and account for items company will supply outside of subs scopes, etc. Useable summary info to be turned over at estimate turnover meeting for all self-performed items included in the estimate
  • Maintain Bid History log
  • Pre-Bid meeting attendance and completion of job walkthrough form
  • Complete estimate turnover package and conduct turnover meeting
  • Complete understanding of bid documents
  • Scope identification for assigned spec sections
  • Accurate takeoff of assigned items
  • Bid Preparation and delivery
  • Attend pre-bid meetings as directed


  • Ability to create strong customer relations
  • Ability to give and receive timely feedback
  • Possess a commitment to excellence
  • Must be a motivated team player, looking to succeed
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills
  • Operationally focused; detailed oriented but able to grasp big picture
  • Excellent people skills, able to manage, motivate and discipline if necessary
  • Must possess a strong work ethic and be able to lead by example
  • Expert knowledge of major building systems and how they function

Possess the following knowledge of codes:

o Standard building codes

o Local codes

o State Fire Marshall requirements

o Other authorities having jurisdiction


Possess knowledge of design:

o Architectural

o Structural

o MEP


Education/Experience

  • Bachelors degree, preferably in Business Administration, Construction / Project Management, or equivalent required
  • 10+ years general construction experience in the commercial space or the like with a concentration on pre-construction and estimating
  • Proficient with MS Excel, MS Word and estimating and earthworks software; On-screen Takeoff, Timberline experience preferred
  • The candidate will have a track record of proven leadership abilities (communication, relationship building, training & development, employment decisions) as well as commercial general construction estimating and pre-construction experience
  • Must be able to successfully pass a pre-employment criminal, driving and drug screen
  • Must possess a current and valid state drivers license and a clean driving record




Apply Here

PI108789848

Preferred Years Of Experience:

10 Year(s)

Education Required:

4 Year Degree - BA

Job Code:

PI108789848
Date Posted : 04/04/2019