Lead Construction Estimator

Cava Companies

  • Richmond, VA
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 28 days ago
  • Apply easily
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. 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 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 • 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.

Cava Companies