Estimator / Project Manager

Location: Los Alamitos, CA
Experience Level: Entry to Mid-Level
Job Function: Estimating / Project Management
Industry: Construction
Experience Required: 3–5 Years
Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent
Relocation Assistance: Not Available
Visa Sponsorship: Not Available

About the Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Estimator / Project Manager to join a construction team in Los Alamitos, California.

This position combines construction estimating and project management, making it ideal for someone who understands construction drawings and takeoffs, can develop accurate project estimates, and is comfortable taking ownership of projects from initial bid through final closeout.

The successful candidate will work closely with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, superintendents, and internal teams to develop competitive estimates and ensure awarded projects are delivered on time, on budget, and according to scope.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating

• Review construction plans, specifications, bid documents, and project scopes to develop accurate estimates.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor requirements.
• Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and supplier bids.
• Negotiate pricing and scope with subcontractors and suppliers when appropriate.
• Prepare professional project proposals including scope descriptions, pricing, schedules, specifications, and clarifications.
• Develop proficiency with estimating and takeoff software, including Bluebeam, Excel, and industry-specific estimating platforms.
• Ensure estimates meet company standards, client requirements, and applicable codes and regulations.
• Manage multiple bids and deadlines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

Project Management

• Transition awarded projects from estimating into execution.
• Communicate project labor, equipment, and resource requirements with the superintendent and project team.
• Establish accurate project files and ensure cost information is properly documented.
• Lead project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and internal teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Monitor project progress, productivity, costs, and potential risks.
• Identify issues early and implement solutions to keep projects moving forward.
• Track project scope changes and manage change orders.
• Prepare timely progress reports and billing documentation.
• Support projects through successful completion and closeout.

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented construction professional with strong analytical and organizational skills who can confidently move between estimating, client communication, and project execution.

Required Qualifications

• 3–5 years of construction experience, including specialty contracting, field, or office-based construction experience.
• Ability to read and understand construction drawings, specifications, and project documents.
• Experience with construction estimating and quantity takeoffs.
• Familiarity with estimating and takeoff software.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, building practices, and applicable safety requirements.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids and projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to job sites as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience working in commercial or industrial construction.
• Experience managing projects from award through completion.
• Familiarity with Bluebeam, Excel, and construction estimating software.

What Makes a Great Fit

We're looking for someone who:

• Takes ownership and pays close attention to the details.
• Can work independently while also collaborating effectively with a project team.
• Builds strong working relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and colleagues.
• Is comfortable learning new construction specialties, systems, and processes.
• Can balance competing priorities and deadlines without sacrificing accuracy.
• Brings a practical, solutions-oriented approach to construction challenges.

Work Environment

This is primarily an office-based position with regular visits to active job sites.

Candidates should be comfortable:

• Traveling to project sites as needed.
• Walking active construction sites.
• Climbing stairs and ladders.
• Working in varying weather conditions when visiting job sites.
• Following applicable job-site safety requirements.

Location & Eligibility

Location: Los Alamitos, California

This position does not offer relocation assistance or visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and be able to work from the Los Alamitos area and travel to project sites as required.

Apply today to be considered for this Estimator / Project Manager opportunity.