Estimator

Dubuque, IA
Permanent
Posted: 10/24/2025 1:51:12 PM
Sedona Office: Dubuque
ESTIMATOR 
WAGE $25/HOUR +
LOCATION: DUBUQUE, IA
DIRECT HIRE

Summary
The Estimator will work collaboratively with the sales, purchasing and operations teams to generate accurate, competitive cost estimates for building-material supply projects (new construction, remodeling, contractor builds). The role requires strong knowledge of construction materials, take-offs/quantity estimating, labor and delivery cost analysis, and excellent customer-facing skills.

Key Responsibilities
  • Review project specifications, plans, jobsite drawings and builder/contractor requirements in order to determine scope of supply.
  • Perform quantity take-offs (e.g., lumber, engineered wood products, trusses, panels, fasteners, etc.) and material lists for proposed jobs.
  • Analyze costs: materials, labor (including in-house and subcontractor delivery/installation), delivery/trucking, handling, waste factors, contingencies.
  • Prepare detailed cost estimates, write-ups and proposals for builder/contractor clients, clearly itemizing material packages, services, delivery schedules, and terms.
  • Work with sales and purchasing teams to solicit supplier/sub-vendor quotes, evaluate pricing trends, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
  • Collaborate with operations/logistics to verify feasibility of delivery, lead-times, storage/yard constraints, handling issues.
  • Meet with builders/contractors, represent the company, present estimates and clarify scope & options.
  • Track historical job costs and feedback: compare estimated vs actual, update unit pricing, maintain estimating database.
  • Monitor market/material price fluctuations, understand competitive landscape and adjust estimates accordingly.
  • Ensure estimates meet internal quality standards, are delivered on time, and support sales goals.
  • Support other duties as needed: assist in product/sales training, cross-departmental coordination, special projects.
 
Qualifications / Skills
  • Minimum of 2-4 years of experience in estimating or building‐materials supply (preferably in lumber/building supply, construction materials).
  • Strong understanding of construction materials (especially lumber, engineered wood, panels, fasteners) and residential/ light‐commercial construction methods.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and comfort learning estimating software/tools.
  • Excellent analytical, mathematical and problem-solving skills; ability to work with numbers and details.
  • Strong communication skills (verbal and written); good at building client/contractor relationships.
  • Ability to read drawings/plans and convert to material/quantity lists.
  • Self-motivated, able to manage multiple estimates and deadlines with accuracy.
  • Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Building Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • A valid driver’s license (since some site visits or deliveries might be required).
  • Ability to work in office environment, as well as occasional site visit.
Please email resume to nikki@careerpros.com
Sedona Staffing Services is an Equal Opportunity