Estimator | High-End Residential GC

Join MatPel Builders as an Estimator and bring architectural visions to life across California, Wyoming, and Hawaii.

At MatPel Builders, we build some of the most architecturally ambitious custom homes in California and beyond.  Our team is made up dedicated builders who value precision, craftsmanship, creativity, and collaboration. 

About the Role

MatPel is seeking an Estimator to join our San Francisco team.  Estimators are essential to how we engage with clients, architects, and trade partners.  This role supports our Preconstruction team in developing accurate, transparent budgets that empower clients and design partners to make informed decisions. 

The Estimator works closely with the Director of Preconstruction, fellow estimators, project managers, and field teams to ensure that every project begins with a complete and reliable cost foundation.  Based full-time in our San Francisco office, this position collaborates regularly with a well-connected Preconstruction team whose other members may be remote.  Strong communication and proactive coordination are central to how the team works together across offices.

Responsibilities

Estimating Projects

• Review plans and specifications to understand scope and budget priorities.


• Identify subcontractor scopes, assemble bid packages, and track responses.


• Subcontractor coordination, set site visits, maintain strong trade relationships.


• Perform takeoffs (PlanSwift), quantify project components, identify gaps or conflicts, and prepare RFIs as needed.


• Evaluate and level bids to confirm full scope coverage; assist price negotiations.


• Prepare conceptual through detailed estimates (Excel), including self-performed work.


• Support the Director of Preconstruction in cost studies, research, RFPs, early pricing efforts, and other administrative tasks.


• Document assumptions, organize backup, and develop high-level construction schedules (Smartsheet).


• Ensure all pricing is current, accurate, and consistent with contract documents and within MatPel’s cost templates.

Client & Architect Engagement

• Participate in client or design meetings to discuss scope and assumptions.


• Prepare and deliver clear, polished deliverables.


• Communicate cost drivers and alternatives; contribute to value engineering and problem solving.


• Support business development activities (events, conferences, outreach, etc.) and pursuit follow-ups as needed.

Qualifications

• Collaborative mindset, critical thinking, and curiosity to learn from peers, trade partners, and clients.


• Minimum 3-years of high-end residential estimating experience.


• Experience with a range of project scales, up to $20M+.


• Strong proficiency in Excel; familiarity with estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools (graphics experience a plus).


• Degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).


• Strong understanding of residential systems, detailing, materials, and construction sequencing.


• Excellent drawing interpretation, organization, communication skills.


• Able to meet deadlines and work both independently and collaboratively across departments.


• Comfortable managing shifting priorities in a dynamic environment.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

• Ability to work in both office and active construction site settings


• Must be able to sit at a desk for extended periods, with intermittent standing, walking, bending, and climbing


• Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds


• Comfortable working in varied environmental conditions including heat, cold, and exposure to dust or airborne particles


• Must be able to safely navigate ladders, stairs, and uneven job site terrain


• Visual and auditory capacity sufficient to use standard office technology and review project plans

What We Offer

Our team is comprised of highly skilled, intelligent, and experienced professionals, and it has been growing steadily!

We offer a comprehensive and holistic benefits package to keep our team members happy and healthy:

• Competitive base salary


• Medical, dental, and vision insurance


• Company-sponsored Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)


• Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care


• Short-term and long-term disability insurance


• Nine paid holidays, paid time off, and sick leave


• Commuter benefits and technology stipend


• Paid training and professional development opportunities


• Long-term growth within a stable, employee-owned company

We use E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, visit www.e-verify.gov.

At MatPel Builders, you will help shape some of the most beautiful homes in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond while building a meaningful, long-term career. We look forward to hearing from you.