The Lead Estimator is responsible for the preparation of proposals including cost, technical and commercial responses. Lead Estimator’s will play a critical role in supporting pre-construction and project development efforts across Cajun’s core markets. This role is a client-facing position and responsible for developing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates during the conceptual and schematic design phases, ensuring alignment with project goals and budgets. The role involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and oversight of support estimators to promote successful project execution.. The Lead Estimator may be required to work in a construction job setting and travel at times.

Responsibilities

*The following are intended as general illustrations of the work in this job class and are not all-inclusive for this position.

• Lead the development of conceptual and schematic cost estimates for engineering, construction, and integrated delivery projects

• Review and understand the bid documents published by the client
• Review data to determine material and labor requirements and prepares itemized lists
• Utilize historical data, quantity take-offs, unit pricing, and systems/line count methodologies.
• Compute cost factors and prepare estimates used for management purposes such as planning, organizing, and scheduling work; preparing bids; selecting vendors or subcontractors; and determining cost effectiveness
• Consult with clients, vendors, or other individuals to discuss and formulate estimates and resolve issues
• Interface with other individuals in the organization to obtain support and commitment to the cost estimates
• Promote interaction with estimating team by brainstorming constructability of project, maximizing creativity, analyzing production rates, and maximizing indirect costs to reduce duration.
• Prepare technical and commercial approach to proposal cost
• Present cost models and estimates to internal teams and clients, ensuring transparency and trust

Qualifications

Physical

• Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs., but may occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
• Hearing and comprehension is necessary for giving and receiving directions
• Must be able to walk on uneven surfaces, muddy conditions, loose rock, loose/soft sand, etc.
• Ability to drive cars/trucks as needed

Professional

• Minimum 8-10 years of experience in mechanical estimating, preferably within petrochemical, oil and gas markets.
• Strong understanding of design-build and integrated project delivery methods
• Must have the ability to communicate effectively with management/ supervision
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Detail-oriented; must be able to remember, examine, and observe details

Preferred Skills

• Proficiency in estimating software and tools (e.g. Sage Estimating, or similar)
• Experience with construction logistics planning, schedule development, and constructability reviews
• Familiarity with Cajun’s core markets and project types