Estimator - Public Works

Public Works Estimator – Commercial Construction

Location: Schenectady, NY (Onsite)

Salary: ~$90,000+ DOE

A well-established commercial general contractor based in Schenectady, NY is seeking a skilled and experienced Public Works Estimator to join their team. This full-time, onsite role offers the opportunity to play a key role in a wide range of private and public-sector commercial projects across the Capital Region.

Position Summary:

The Estimator will focus primarily on plant-spec and public works projects, managing competitive bid processes from start to finish. This individual will work on 3–5 simultaneous projects of varying size and complexity, occasionally dedicating full-time attention to larger efforts (e.g., $30M+). This is a critical hire due to the planned retirement of a long-tenured senior team member, and the company is looking for someone who can step into this role with confidence and independence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop comprehensive estimates and competitive bids for public and private commercial projects


• Solicit subcontractor and supplier quotes, leveraging strong relationships within the local construction market


• Interpret plans, specifications, and addenda to generate accurate quantity take-offs and cost estimates


• Coordinate with project management and preconstruction teams to align estimates with execution plans


• Attend site walks and pre-bid meetings when required


• Track and evaluate historical data for use in future bids


• Maintain a high level of communication with subcontractors, clients, and internal stakeholders

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in construction estimating; 10+ years preferred


• Proven background in public works and plant-spec estimating


• Strong knowledge of local subcontractor market in the Capital Region


• Polished communication skills with the ability to be persistent and persuasive when working with subcontractors


• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously


• Experience with estimating software

Additional Info:

• This is a full-time onsite role; candidates must be located within driving distance of Schenectady, NY


• Company typically manages 10–15 projects at a time, ranging from $10K additions to $35M+ new builds


• Project portfolio includes office buildings, manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, retail, and light government work