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Lead Construction Estimator

, Richmond

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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.


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Compensation details: 80000-100000 Yearly Salary





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