Commercial Construction Estimator (Part-time to Full-time)

 

Our client is a world-class design/build company with over 60 years of experience delivering construction projects for international and national clients building in Mexico and is now breaking into the US market. With deep expertise in Lean Construction, BIM, and sustainable building practices, they serve clients across automotive, healthcare, food & beverage, manufacturing, distribution, hospitality, and higher education markets. Based in San Diego, this role supports cross-border project pursuits connecting U.S.-based clients.

Position Summary

We are seeking a part-time Commercial Construction Estimator based in San Diego to support the estimating function for commercial construction projects. This role will prepare accurate cost estimates, assist with bid packages, and collaborate with cross-functional teams across the U.S. and Mexico to support our growing pipeline of international design/build projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Review architectural, structural, and MEP drawings along with project specifications to develop scope and quantity takeoffs
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for commercial construction projects, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor pricing
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor bids to ensure competitive, accurate pricing
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving alternatives without compromising design intent
• Support the proposal and bid process, including assembling estimate packages for client presentations
• Collaborate with project management, BIM/VDC, and preconstruction teams to align estimates with project scope and schedule
• Maintain organized records of historical cost data, vendor pricing, and market trends to support future estimates
• Communicate estimate assumptions and scope clearly with internal teams and, when needed, clients and design partners
• Support cross-border coordination on projects connecting U.S. clients with construction execution in Mexico

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating
• Strong ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, and MEP drawings and specifications
• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, ProEst, or similar) and Microsoft Office, especially Excel
• Familiarity with Lean Construction and/or BIM/VDC workflows a plus
• Excellent communication, organizational, and time management skills
• Spanish language proficiency a plus, given cross-border project work
• Experience in automotive, manufacturing, distribution, or industrial construction markets a plus

Position Details

• Location: San Diego, CA (hybrid/in-office flexibility may be discussed)
• Schedule: Part-time
• Reports to: Preconstruction/Estimating Lead