Job Description

Chief Estimator

Powers & Sons Construction

Chicago - North Office (8770 Bryn Mawr Ave. Suite 1300, Chicago, IL 60631)

About Powers & Sons Construction

Powers & Sons Construction is a third-generation, family-owned construction firm with over 58 years of excellence in the industry. Founded in 1967, we have grown to become an award-winning firm, delivering more than $1 billion in construction projects across the Midwest. With offices in Chicago, Gary, and Indianapolis, we specialize in general contracting, construction management, design-build, and owner's representative services for commercial, healthcare, education, industrial, and public sector clients.

Position Overview

Powers & Sons Construction is seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead estimating and preconstruction efforts for our newly opened Chicago - North office. This strategic leadership role will be instrumental in establishing our market presence and driving business growth throughout the Greater Chicago region. The Chief Estimator will oversee all aspects of the estimating process, mentor a team of estimating professionals, and collaborate closely with operations, business development, and executive leadership to secure and deliver high-quality projects.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating Leadership

• Lead and direct all estimating activities for the Chicago - North market, including general contracting, construction management, and design-build pursuits
• Establish standardized estimating procedures, methodologies, and best practices for the regional office
• Oversee preparation of comprehensive budgets and cost estimates for projects ranging from $5M to $100M+
• Review and analyze project specifications, drawings, soil reports, and site conditions to determine scope and feasibility
• Develop detailed cost breakdowns including materials, labor, equipment, subcontractors, and general conditions
• Prepare and present bid packages and estimates to executive leadership and prospective clients

Preconstruction Services

• Lead preconstruction efforts including value engineering, constructability reviews, and cost optimization
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, owners, and consultants during design development
• Facilitate Target Value Delivery and design-build pursuits
• Conduct market analysis and risk assessment for competitive positioning
• Support business development initiatives through cost planning and proposal development

Team Development & Management

• Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing estimating team
• Recruit and train estimating staff on company standards, software, and industry best practices
• Conduct performance reviews and establish professional development plans
• Foster a collaborative culture focused on accuracy, efficiency, and continuous improvement

Subcontractor & Vendor Relations

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with qualified subcontractors and suppliers
• Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate competitive bids from trade partners
• Ensure adequate subcontractor coverage and participation across all trades
• Expand and qualify new subcontractor and vendor partnerships in the Chicago market

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field required
• Professional certifications (ASPE, AACE, LEED AP) preferred

Experience

• Minimum 10-15 years of construction estimating experience with progressive responsibility
• At least 5 years in a senior estimating or leadership role
• Proven track record of successfully bidding and winning commercial construction projects in excess of $20M
• Experience with diverse project types including commercial, healthcare, education, industrial, or institutional
• Strong background in both competitive bid and negotiated work
• Knowledge of Chicago market conditions, subcontractor base, and local building codes preferred

Technical Skills

• Expert proficiency in estimating software
• Advanced skills in Bluebeam Revu, ProCore, and Building Connected platforms
• Exceptional Microsoft Excel capabilities for cost analysis and reporting

Core Competencies

• Comprehensive understanding of construction methods, means, materials, and sequencing
• Strong analytical skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple complex estimates simultaneously under tight deadlines
• Strategic thinking with strong business acumen
• Collaborative leadership style with proven ability to build and motivate teams
• Commitment to integrity, safety, quality, and diversity & inclusion

What We Offer

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
• Performance-based annual bonus program
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Annual profit-sharing contributions
• Professional development and continuing education support

Work Environment & Culture

• Leadership role with significant autonomy and strategic impact
• Collaborative, family-oriented culture built on 58 years of excellence
• Commitment to innovation, safety, and quality in all we do
• Opportunities to work on high-profile, award-winning projects
• Investment in employee growth and long-term career development
• Active community engagement and corporate social responsibility initiatives
• Work-life balance with flexible arrangements as appropriate

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in an office environment with occasional site visits
• Capacity to review and analyze construction documents for extended periods
• Must be able to attend pre-bid meetings, site walks, and client presentations as needed
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required

Powers & Sons Core Values

• Integrity: We conduct business with honesty, transparency, and ethical standards
• Safety: We prioritize the well-being of our people and partners above all else
• Customer Care: We are collaborative partners dedicated to exceeding client expectations
• Excellence: We deliver unmatched quality on time and within budget
• Collaboration: We believe the best results come from working together
• Community: We make a positive impact in the communities we serve

Equal Opportunity Employer

Powers & Sons Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

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