Job Overview

Title:

Lead Construction Estimator

Description:

cava companies llc is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented construction estimator to join our team. this role is essential to our success across a diverse portfolio of projects, including residential renovations, new construction, and commercial multifamily developments.


the ideal candidate will have extensive field experience, strong analytical skills, and a deep understanding of construction methods and market pricing.

compensation:

$80,000 - $100,000

responsibilities:

preliminary & conceptual estimating

  • provide high-level conceptual estimates during the acquisition phase to help determine project feasibility and investment potential.
  • collaborate with the acquisitions team to assess the scope, risk, and cost implications of potential projects.

detailed project estimating

  • develop comprehensive estimates for approved projects, including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractor costs, and overhead.
  • identify cost-saving opportunities and value engineering options to improve project margins.

construction phase support

  • create, document, and manage change orders in coordination with the construction team.
  • collaborate with designers to ensure design intent aligns with budget constraints and construction feasibility.

proposal development & team collaboration

  • prepare and present professional bid proposals and cost breakdowns to internal stakeholders and, when applicable, external partners.
  • work closely with project managers, designers, engineers, and other team members to ensure estimates align with project goals and timelines.

market research & cost tracking

  • monitor market trends, material pricing, and labor rates to ensure cost accuracy and competitiveness.
  • maintain and refine historical cost databases and unit pricing for future reference.

technology & process optimization

  • use microsoft excel at a high level to build, manage, and analyze estimates and budgets.
  • utilize buildertrend and yardi as needed-training can be provided for these platforms.
  • contribute to the development and refinement of estimating templates and workflows.
qualifications:

experience

  • minimum 5 years of experience in construction estimating, with a strong background in residential renovations, new construction, and multifamily/commercial projects.
  • proven ability to produce both conceptual and detailed estimates under tight timelines.

education

  • an associate's or bachelor's degree in construction management, architecture, engineering, or a related field is preferred. equivalent experience is highly valued.

technical proficiency

  • advanced proficiency in microsoft excel is preferred.
  • familiarity with buildertrend and yardi is a plus; training will be provided.
  • strong understanding of construction materials, methods, and labor practices.

key skills

  • analytical thinking: ability to break down complex scopes into accurate cost components.
  • attention to detail: skilled at identifying discrepancies in plans and uncovering cost-saving opportunities.
  • time management: capable of managing multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
  • communication: clear and professional communication with internal teams, subcontractors, and occasional external partners.

adaptability: comfortable working across a variety of project types and phases.

perks and bonuses: awarded upon hitting core metrics and competencies.

about company

cava companies is a local leader in the residential real estate industry and residential rental management business. we are a medium-sized business consisting of top-producing, friendly, and positive people. our senior management and staff have extensive experience in real estate development, finance, economic development, project management, leasing, and property management. we have in-depth knowledge of the richmond market, contacts, and the growth trend of this great city.



compensation details: 00 yearly salary



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Salary:

$77942-$93701 Annual

Company:

Cava Companies

Location:

Richmond, Virginia, United States