Role SummaryThe Estimating Manager leads the estimating function for VBC's volumetric construction platform, owning cost models, estimating systems, and pricing accuracy across all pursuits and preconstruction activities. This role is responsible for building a scalable, technology-enabled estimating capability aligned with VBC's manufacturing-first operating model.
The Estimating Manager partners closely with Sales, Design, Manufacturing, Operations, and Finance to ensure estimates are accurate, competitive, repeatable, and reflective of true factory and field costs. This role blends hands-on estimating expertise with functional leadership, systems thinking, and continuous improvement.
Responsibilities: Estimating Leadership & Ownership- Own the estimating function end-to-end, including standards, assumptions, cost structures, and deliverables
- Lead, mentor, and develop estimating staff; set clear expectations for quality, accuracy, and cycle time
- Establish estimating protocols by project type, design phase, and delivery model
- Ensure consistent, defensible estimates aligned with company margin targets and risk posture
- Support go/no-go decisions and pricing strategy in partnership with leadership
Cost Modeling & Estimate Development- Oversee preparation of detailed conceptual, schematic, and final estimates for volumetric construction projects
- Lead reviews of civil, architectural, structural, MEP, and specialty trade pricing
- Identify scope gaps, exclusions, assumptions, clarifications, indirect costs, and General Conditions
- Develop and validate unit pricing, labor productivity assumptions, and material cost components
- Produce manpower and production labor estimates aligned with factory and site execution plans
- Compile complete estimate and bid packages suitable for executive, client, and partner review
Volumetric & Manufacturing Estimating- Develop and maintain module-level and system-level cost models
- Build factory labor and production rate assumptions (e.g., stations, takt / cycle time, throughput)
- Support standard product pricing, customization premiums, and make-vs-buy decisions
- Collaborate with Manufacturing and Supply Chain on BOM accuracy and labor standards
- Perform variance analysis between estimated and actual factory and field costs to drive continuous improvement
- Lead subcontractor bid solicitation, leveling, and scope validation
- Partner with Procurement and Supply Chain to align pricing strategies and sourcing decisions
- Support value engineering and cost optimization efforts during preconstruction
Technology, Systems & Data- Own estimating tools, databases, and workflows, including BIM-enabled and parametric estimating
- Drive adoption of new estimating technologies and automation opportunities
- Integrate estimating with ERP systems (e.g., SAP), manufacturing BOMs, and cost databases
- Establish and govern historical cost data, unit cost libraries, and benchmarking
- Leverage platforms such as Autodesk (Forma), Excel, and other estimating software to improve speed and accuracy
Risk, Communication & Stakeholder Management- Identify cost, schedule, and execution risks within estimates and propose mitigation strategies
- Clearly communicate estimate assumptions, risks, and sensitivities to leadership and other relevant stakeholders
- Present and defend estimates to internal executives, clients, and partners
- Support smooth handoff from estimating to project execution teams
Qualifications & Experience- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field (preferred)
- 7-10+ years of progressive estimating experience in construction, with leadership responsibility
- Strong preference for experience in volumetric modular, off-site manufacturing, design-build, or industrialized construction
- Proven ability to lead complex estimates across multiple disciplines and delivery phases
- Experience working closely with manufacturing, operations, and finance teams
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities- Deep understanding of construction estimating, cost modeling, and unit pricing
- Strong knowledge of contract documents, drawings, and specifications
- Expertise in BIM-enabled estimating and quantity takeoffs
- Proficiency with estimating and analysis tools (Autodesk platforms, Excel, ERP systems such as SAP)
- Ability to think parametrically and systemically about cost and production
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to translate technical detail into executive-level insights
- Demonstrated leadership, collaboration, and continuous-improvement mindset
- Comfortable operating in a fast-growing, evolving organization
Preferred / Nice-to-Have- Experience building or scaling estimating functions in a manufacturing or modular environment
- Familiarity with Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), Certified Cost Professional (CCP), or similar credentials
- Experience implementing or improving estimating systems and data governance
- Exposure to value engineering, target value design, or product-based pricing models
Additional InformationThe Salary Range for this position is $120,000 - $150,000 annual base salary + annual performance bonus. We also off the following benefits:
- Highly competitive pay, benefits program, and flexible time-off programs
- 401(k) program with employer matching
- Employee referral programs with charitable donations
- Day of Giving program to volunteer at community charities
