Estimating Manager will work out of our Midwest Division, located in Edina, Minnesota. Our Estimating Manager is responsible for developing conceptual and progressive cost models in support of SitelogIQ's facility improvement, infrastructure, and capital renewal projects across the Midwest region. Reporting to the Director, Preconstruction, this role focuses on early-phase budget creation using limited information, narrative-based scope definitions, and collaboratively workshopped project assumptions. The Estimating Manager translates program goals, performance criteria, and preliminary design direction into structured, defensible cost models that guide project development and executive decision-making.
The salary range is $125,000-$145,000. The salary may vary within the range based on factors such as location of the role, and a candidate's experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Estimating Manager Responsibilities Conceptual Budget Leadership- Lead development of early-phase conceptual budgets based on facility assessments, preliminary scopes, and program data
- Establish defensible capital cost models for renovations, additions, deferred maintenance, and system replacements
- Build and maintain standardized conceptual assemblies for K-12 building systems
- Analyze historical cost data and regional market trends to inform budget assumptions
- Apply escalation forecasting and regional cost adjustments
- Ensure alignment between evolving design scope and approved conceptual budgets
Design & Scope Oversight- Collaborate internally with development, engineering, and design teams during scope refinement and budget updates
- Review drawings and specifications to validate scope completeness and cost alignment
- Identify scope gaps, overlaps, and cost risks early in the planning process.
Cost Planning & Risk Management- Develop and maintain detailed cost breakdowns organized by CSI divisions
- Track and reconcile estimate evolution from conceptual planning through final design
- Establish budget accuracy targets, variance controls, and appropriate contingencies
- Identify cost risks and contribute to mitigation strategies
- Maintain awareness of Midwest labor markets, material pricing trends, and supply chain conditions.
- Integrate regional cost factors into conceptual estimates.
- Utilize historical project data to refine conceptual accuracy.
Team Mentorship & Process Development- Provide technical guidance to internal teams in cost planning methodologies
- Contribute to cost database development, assembly standardization, and maintenance
- Promote consistency in cost planning approaches across all projects
- Maintain organized, transparent, and auditable estimate files
Estimating Manager Qualifications: Required:- 3+ years of progressive experience in cost planning, preconstruction, or estimating
- Demonstrated involvement in conceptual budgeting
- Experience supporting capital improvement projects in K-12 and/or public sector environment
- Working knowledge of CSI MasterFormat divisions and building systems (MEP, envelope, interiors, sitework)
- Experience developing ROM, schematic, and design development budgets
- Proficiency in Excel-based financial modeling and cost analysis
- Experience with construction cost platforms (Bluebeam, STACK, Procore, or similar)
- Ability to interpret drawings and specifications for scope validation and cost alignment
- Strong analytical and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across internal teams
Preferred:- Bachelor's degree in construction management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred
- Experience in Midwest public bid environments
- Strong knowledge of MEP systems and building envelope assemblies in educational facilities
No agencies pleaseBenefitsWe offer a highly competitive salary, and comprehensive benefits, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Disability and life insurance
- 401K
- Flex time off
- 12 paid holidays
- Tuition reimbursement
- Opportunities to drive our DE&I efforts by joining our affinity groups, Veterans and Allies Leadership Organization or Women Inspiring & Strengthening Everyone
- Opportunities to give back to our local communities through organized events or fundraisers
#LI-MS1 Equal Opportunity Employer
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