Fall 2025 Estimating Intern

Description

Learn and Assist the Estimating Process

• Understand CSI divisions and structure of estimates. 
• Reading plans and specifications.
• Generate Bid Solicitations to project specific subcontract base using Columbia’s ITB Software. 
• Communicate via phone, email, and text with subcontractors to secure/confirm bid participation.
• Log sub responses on the Extranet and maintain established sublist.
• Manage bid documents and distribute electronically.
• Assist Estimator with the distribution of project information or clarifications to subcontractors.
• Perform quantity take off using On Screen Takeoff (OST) and Assemble.
• Develop an understanding of using various estimating software. (OST, BlueBeam, Extranet, Assemble, In-site, etc.)
• Assist the Estimator with the creation of trade specific tabulation sheets and project scopes.
• Develop a clear understanding of each trade’s scope of work.
• Attend site visits and subcontractor walk-throughs as required.
• Participate in project meetings and budget reviews when appropriate.

Proposal and Interview Involvement

• Assist with providing proposal deliverables under the direction of the estimating team when called upon.

Subcontractor Relationships

• Establish working relationships with subcontractors.
• Effectively and respectfully communicate with subcontractors to ensure timely and accurate bids. 

Continuous Improvement and Educational Learning

• Attend industry events when appropriate. 
• Improve existing knowledge of estimating by successfully:
• Reading plans & specs
• Performing takeoff
• Communicating with subs
• Participate in weekly preconstruction team huddles
• Proactive an ambitious/willingness to learn 

Work Environment

• Office setting: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Construction Site: Walking the site on uneven walking surfaces, climbing ladders, being around machinery with moving parts and around heavy equipment.
• Protective gear: Wearing personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, clothing, and a hard hat, for most of the day while on the construction site.
• Work Hours: This position generally works standard hours, but may work extended hours, nights, and weekends, especially during critical project phases, to address project delays or to assist with site coverage.
• Company Culture: Columbia strives to maintain a culture that is respectful of family and work/life balance and values that everyone is a hands-on contributor and feels comfortable sharing ideas and opinions. Our day-to-day operations are designed to encourage interactions between Columbia employees within and across teams, and to spark conversation and creativity.