Estimator

Estimator

Office Location: 155 W Congress St #505, Detroit, MI 48226

Position Classification: Full-Time Regular

About this Opportunity

Rockford Construction is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Estimator to join our Detroit team. In this role, you will develop accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for a wide range of commercial construction projects, with a strong emphasis on mechanical systems and scopes (HVAC, plumbing, piping, and related trades).

This position plays a critical role in preconstruction, partnering closely with estimators, project managers, clients, engineers, and trade partner to ensure competitive, thorough, and strategically aligned pricing. The ideal candidate combines strong commercial construction experience with mechanical aptitude and estimating expertise, and thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare detailed cost estimates across all project phases, including conceptual, schematic design, design development, and construction documents
Lead mechanical estimating efforts, including HVAC, plumbing, piping, and related systems
Perform accurate quantity takeoffs for all trades, with particular attention to mechanical scopes and coordination requirements
Develop and manage bid packages, scopes, and trade partner outreach for budgeting and hard bid opportunities
Analyze drawings, specifications, and project documentation to identify risks, gaps, and opportunities
Collaborate with design teams and subcontractors to validate pricing and ensure constructability
Support value engineering efforts, particularly related to mechanical systems and cost efficiencies
Assemble and maintain cost histories, unit pricing databases, and benchmarking tools, including mechanical cost data
Assist in developing project schedules and sequencing considerations
Participate in client meetings and presentations as a preconstruction representative
Support Project Managers during project handoff and throughout early project execution
Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating processes, systems and tools
Travel to job sites and partner locations as needed (approximately 25%)

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in construction management or related field preferred
4 or more years of experience in construction estimating, with direct experience in mechanical estimating or mechanical preferred
Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks

Benefits

Rockford offers competitive compensation, 401(k) with company match, comprehensive healthcare plans, generous paid time off including, continued learning and training opportunities, on-site health and wellness activities, tuition reimbursement, flexible work schedules, and access to industry-leading technology. Team members are also provided opportunities to help shape their community for future generations through volunteer time off and opportunities for involvement with local organizations.

Who We Are

At Rockford, we’re not just in the business of creating buildings – we’re creating neighborhoods, businesses and communities and we’re looking for people who are ready to make an impact. Rockford is a nationally recognized construction, development, and property management provider ranked by Engineering News-Record as one of the top 200 contractors in the nation. With regional offices in the Midwest and Southeast, we’ve built projects totaling more than $5 billion in varying scope and size, serving education, healthcare, hospitality, multi-unit, mixed-use, senior living, manufacturing and industrial clients. We’re delivering forward-thinking ideas with an approach that’s built on safety, teamwork and a dedication to quality. Rockford respects and values the characteristics, talents, and perspectives that make each person unique. We believe that by bringing diverse individuals together, in an inclusive manner we can more effectively collaborate, innovate, and solve the problems that face our world. We are committed to creating and fostering a team, partners, and strategies that reflect this purpose.

Type of Environment

The work environment for this position is a typical office environment in which physical demands require the ability to sit for long periods of time. Intermittent movement will be necessary to perform requirements of the position such as accessing centrally located office equipment and may be subject to lifting of 35 lbs., bending, stooping, kneeling and climbing.

Rockford is an equal opportunity employer that supports and subscribes to a policy of nondiscrimination in all aspects of employment. Rockford will not discriminate based on religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy and related conditions, gender identity, and sexual orientation), height, weight, marital status, military service, partisan consideration, disability, genetic information, or any other reason prohibited by applicable federal and state laws.