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Founding Lead Estimator - Commercial (NoVA)

McLean, Virginia Permanent USD130,000 - USD150,000 per year View Job Description
The Lead Estimator will take full ownership of preconstruction, leading budgeting, estimating, bid strategy, and client engagement for commercial construction projects in Northern Virginia. This role offers autonomy, visibility, and the opportunity to shape both project wins and the future of the local team.
  • Be the founding estimator for a growing NoVA office
  • Clear path to build and lead your own estimating team

About Our Client

This is a long-established, multi-state contractor known for delivering a wide variety of complex public and private sector projects. They offer a collaborative, high-energy culture backed by decades of stability, strong industry reputation, and continued regional growth.

Job Description

The Lead Estimator will be responsible for:

  • Leading all preconstruction activities including budgeting, estimating, and bid strategy
  • Acting as a key client-facing representative, building long-term relationships and identifying opportunities
  • Preparing conceptual, schematic, and detailed estimates, including full quantity take-offs
  • Soliciting, analyzing, and leveling subcontractor and supplier bids for accuracy and competitiveness
  • Collaborating with design teams and internal stakeholders on value engineering initiatives
  • Developing bid packages, GMP documentation, and presentation materials
  • Reviewing drawings and specifications to define scope, risks, and pricing strategies
  • Supporting project planning and ensure smooth handover to operations teams
  • Maintaining and updating cost databases and historical pricing benchmarks
  • Participating in networking, client meetings, and industry events to support business growth

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.

The Successful Applicant

A successful Lead Estimator should have:

  • Proven experience in commercial construction estimating and preconstruction leadership
  • Strong track record of working independently and managing full bid processes
  • Demonstrated ability to lead teams or take ownership of major pursuits
  • Deep understanding of drawings, specifications, and construction methodologies
  • Established relationships within the Northern Virginia/DC construction market (preferred)
  • Comfortable working in an office-based, collaborative environment
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
  • Experience with subcontractor buyout, bid leveling, and value engineering

What's on Offer

The Lead Estimator will receive:

  • Opportunity to be the first estimator in a growing regional office
  • Direct visibility with leadership and influence over hiring future team members
  • Stable, reputable contractor with a diverse and impactful project portfolio
  • Strong career progression pathway into senior leadership
  • Collaborative culture with access to support from an established team in other states



If you're ready to take the next step in your career as a Lead Estimator, we encourage you to apply today!

Contact
Jessica Grocer
Quote job ref
JN-072026-7063529

Job summary

Sector
Construction
Sub Sector
Estimator
Industry
Property
Where
McLean
Contract Type
Permanent
Consultant name
Jessica Grocer
Job Reference
JN-072026-7063529