Chief Estimator - Heavy Demolition/Construction

Cooperidge Consulting Firm

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San Francisco, California, US on site Until 8/22/2026 First posted March 18, 2026 Last posted March 18, 2026
Job description

Cooperidge Consulting Firm is seeking a Chief Estimator for a top Demolition and Heavy Civil Construction client.

This senior leadership position holds full responsibility for directing and managing all aspects of the estimating process for complex, large-scale demolition projects. The Chief Estimator ensures the preparation of detailed, accurate, and competitive bids by leveraging deep expertise in demolition techniques, analyzing project plans, managing risk, and implementing best practices across the estimating team.

Job Responsibilities

  • Lead and oversee the entire estimating team to prepare detailed, accurate, and competitive cost estimates for large-scale demolition projects.
  • Analyze project plans, specifications, and related documents to accurately identify scope, materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor needs.
  • Implement and rigorously maintain estimating best practices, tools, and software to continuously improve accuracy and efficiency.
  • Review and provide final approval for all estimates before formal submission to senior management and clients.
  • Develop and maintain strategic relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and industry contacts to obtain competitive pricing and bids.
  • Evaluate project risk factors and proactively develop comprehensive contingency plans to be included within all estimates.
  • Support business development efforts by providing crucial technical expertise and timely responses to all bid opportunities.
  • Mentor and develop estimating staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, professional growth, and compliance.

Requirements

Education

  • Technical degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field is typically required (implied).

Experience

  • Extensive experience (typically ten (10) to fifteen (15) years) in estimating large-scale demolition or heavy civil construction projects is required.
  • Proven leadership skills with direct experience managing and developing estimating teams.

Certifications/Licenses

  • Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulatory requirements related to demolition work is preferred.

Skills

  • Strong knowledge of demolition methods, equipment, safety standards, and environmental regulations.
  • Proficiency in commercial construction estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Strong negotiation skills for managing subcontractor and supplier pricing.
  • Proven ability to interpret and analyze complex construction documents, drawings, and specifications.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness Resources
About this role

Summary

Lead estimating for large-scale demolition projects, manage team, analyze plans, and develop bids.

Job title

Chief Estimator

Experience level

10+ years

Industry

construction

Location requirements

San Francisco, CA; remote work not specified

Salary

Not specified

Management role

Yes

Skills & keywords

Required skills

demolition methodsestimating softwareMicrosoft Officeproject analysisleadership

Preferred skills

regulatory compliancecontract negotiation

Specializations

demolitionheavy civilproject analysisteam leadership
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

San Francisco, CA, USA

On-site City