Chief Estimator

W.E. O'Neil Construction

. Own executive oversight of the full budget lifecycle, ensuring accurate, competitive, risk-aligned estimates from conceptual through contract award.

Posted 9/17/2026full-timePleasanton • California • United StatesLead💰 $190,000 - $230,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates extensive expertise in construction estimating and cost modeling, with a strong focus on leading teams and developing effective pricing strategies. Proven ability to manage large project pursuits and maintain high standards in estimating practices.

Highest-signal resume keywords

12+ Years Estimating ExperienceExpert Knowledge Of Construction EstimatingProficiency In ExcelLeadership And Team DevelopmentStrong Communication Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Construction EstimatingCost ModelingRisk AnalysisValue EngineeringTrade ScopingSubcontractor Bid AnalysisMarket IntelligenceBudget ManagementPerformance ManagementWorkload Allocation

Soft Skills

Strong CommunicationClient Trust BuildingTeam Leadership

Tools & Technologies

ExcelBluebeamProCorePlanGrid

Industry Keywords

Commercial General ContractorEstimating StandardsSOPsContinuous ImprovementPreconstruction

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Own executive oversight of the full budget lifecycle, ensuring accurate, competitive, risk-aligned estimates from conceptual through contract award.
Lead pricing strategy using historical data, market intelligence, and cost analysis.
Oversee executive summaries and client presentations.
Approve trade scoping, subcontractor bid analysis, and procurement strategy across all projects.
Validate pricing structures against company risk tolerance.
Review and challenge estimate assumptions, cost variances, and value engineering strategies.
Ensure strategic subcontractor coverage across all pursuits through trade partner relationships and market knowledge.
Partner with Preconstruction, Operations, and leadership to develop and execute winning pursuit strategies.
Lead, mentor, and develop estimating staff, including hiring, performance management, and workload allocation.
Establish and maintain estimating standards and SOPs, driving continuous improvement across the department.

Requirements

What you’ll need

12+ years of estimating or preconstruction experience with a commercial general contractor.
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
Proven experience leading estimating teams, managing large project pursuits, and presenting to clients.
Expert knowledge of construction estimating and cost modeling across multiple project types and delivery methods.
Proficiency in Excel, Bluebeam, ProCore/PlanGrid (or equivalent).
Strong communication skills and ability to quickly earn client trust and lead diverse teams effectively.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Full ownership of the estimating department's strategy, standards, and people — not just a seat at the table.
100% employee-owned (ESOP) since 1925 — when the company succeeds, you have a direct stake in that success.
Competitive pay plus an annual bonus program.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
100% company-paid life insurance.
PTO/sick leave.
401(k) with company match.
Student debt assistance program.
Hybrid schedule: 3 days in office and 2 remote.