Senior Estimator

Location: Chicago, IL (Onsite)
Travel: As required for site visits and pre-bid meetings

About Novak Construction
Founded in 1980 and headquartered in Chicago, Novak Construction is a premier national general contractor and construction management firm. We specialize in delivering complex, high-profile projects across retail, industrial, institutional, healthcare, and mixed-use sectors. Our combination of technical expertise, progressive management tools, and commitment to client satisfaction makes us a trusted partner in the construction industry.

Position Overview
Novak Construction is seeking a Senior Estimator to join our Preconstruction and Estimating team. The Senior Estimator will be responsible for preparing budgets, estimates, and pre-bid packages for commercial construction projects under GMP, lump sum, and competitive bid structures. This role includes developing schematic, design development, and construction document estimates; soliciting and evaluating subcontractor bids; performing quantity take-offs; and reviewing project plans and specifications for renovations and new construction.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate execution of estimate deliverables and oversee the estimating process.
• Analyze drawings and specifications to determine scope of work and ensure complete documentation.
• Develop full-scope, accurate estimates based on available documents.
• Evaluate bid documents, identify risks and opportunities, and communicate insights to management.
• Organize bids and provide leadership on means, methods, schedules, and strategy.
• Participate in RFP responses and pursuit of new work.
• Perform detailed quantity take-offs and production cost estimates.
• Solicit, organize, and analyze subcontractor and vendor pricing.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site tours, and post-bid interviews as needed.
• Review drawings for constructability and monitor actual vs. estimated costs.
• Maintain subcontractor database and prequalification records.
• Build strong relationships with clients, design teams, subcontractors, and suppliers.

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or Architecture preferred.
• 10+ years of preconstruction, estimating, or operations experience in commercial construction.
• Knowledgeable of civil/site, structural systems, interior/exterior finishes, mechanical/electrical systems, and associated costs.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, Autodesk/ProCore, OST, and ITB software.
• Strong organizational, written, verbal, and communication skills.
• Detail-oriented, flexible, collaborative, and self-motivated.
• Experience with light industrial, warehouse, refrigerated buildings, commercial, and retail projects, including renovations and new construction.

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Additional allowances and benefits dependent on experience and role requirements.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Novak Construction provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.