Construction Estimator - Residential Ground-Up & Multifamily Specialist (San Diego)

Job DescriptionJob Description

Pave Talent is hiring on behalf of our client, an established, mid-size general contractor in San Diego with 13+ team members and an impressive 0.7% change order ratio across $7M+ in completed work. Known for its collaborative, productivity-focused, and excellence-driven culture, this company specializes in custom homes, large-scale remodels, and ADUs and is expanding into multifamily construction.

About Our Client

Our client is a San Diego-based general contractor founded in 2018 that has rapidly grown from a small startup to a thriving construction management firm. With an average project size of $600K and recent seven-figure projects in their portfolio, they're positioned for continued growth in the premium residential and multifamily markets. The team consists of experienced construction professionals (many with 15-30 years of industry experience) who transitioned from running their own operations to joining a collaborative environment with better resources and support. They use CoConstruct for cloud-based project management and maintain industry-leading accuracy with detailed scopes and transparent client communication.

The Role's Impact

As Construction Estimator, you'll be the critical link between winning new business and setting projects up for success. Your estimates will directly influence project profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's ability to scale from $600K average projects into the $1M+ multifamily space. With the owners currently splitting estimating duties as a collateral responsibility, you'll free them to focus on strategic growth while bringing your expertise to standardize processes and expand their subcontractor network.

What You'll Do

• Lead full-cycle estimating for $250K-$1M+ projects including custom homes, major remodels, ADUs, and multifamily construction, producing detailed cost breakdowns that maintain the company's 0.7% change order ratio
• Leverage CoConstruct or similar cloud-based platforms to create transparent, client-facing estimates and collaborate with project managers through the company's proven construction process
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with San Diego-area subcontractors and suppliers to secure competitive pricing and expand the company's vendor network for scaling operations
• Conduct site visits and pre-construction meetings (approximately 30% of time) to assess project feasibility, gather field intelligence, and ensure estimates reflect real-world conditions
• Analyze architectural plans, specifications, and building codes to identify scope gaps, value engineering opportunities, and potential challenges before they become costly issues
• Collaborate in turnover meetings with project managers to ensure seamless handoffs when estimates convert to active projects, maintaining accountability from bid to completion
• Support business development efforts by producing professional, detailed proposals that demonstrate the company's thoroughness and win premium clients who value quality over low-cost bidding

What You Bring

Required:

• 10+ years of hands-on estimating experience in ground-up residential construction, large-scale remodels, or multifamily projects
• Current San Diego market knowledge with established relationships with local subcontractors and suppliers (this is critical for immediate impact)
• Expert proficiency with cloud-based estimating and project management software (CoConstruct experience is ideal, but similar platforms like Buildertrend or Procore are acceptable)
• Deep understanding of California building codes, permitting processes, and local jurisdiction requirements
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship
• Ability to work on-site in San Diego 5 days per week with flexible start times (construction team starts 6:30-7am)

:

• 15+ years of total construction industry experience with a background in project management or field supervision
• Experience transitioning from running your own contracting business to an in-house role
• Track record of maintaining low change order ratios through detailed takeoffs and thorough scope development
• Familiarity with the company's target client profile: second-time construction clients willing to pay for quality and expertise

Compensation & Benefits

Market competitive base salary ($100K-$115K depending on experience), with potential performance bonus structure based on successful project awards. Comprehensive benefits package includes unlimited PTO (productivity-focused, not clock-watching), subsidized dental and vision insurance, $10K life insurance policy, 401(k) plan, mileage reimbursement, and potential company vehicle. Full health insurance benefits expected to be added in 2025-2026.

This is a full-time, salaried position with growth potential as the company scales into larger multifamily projects.

Culture & Team Dynamics

Join a team where "get shit done" isn't just a saying—it's a core value. The company operates on Extreme Ownership principles (inspired by Jocko Willink) where accountability, proactive problem-solving, and self-direction are expected. The culture values professionalism, doing things right the first time, and productivity over presenteeism. With no set office hours and unlimited vacation, you'll be measured on results and impact, not time at your desk. The team bonds over their shared commitment to excellence and enjoys the collaborative energy of experienced professionals who chose to join forces rather than work in isolation.

Ready to bring your estimating expertise to an elite team? This is a confidential search conducted by Pave Talent. Apply via LinkedIn and we'll contact qualified candidates within 48 hours. Your application is fully private and will not be shared without your permission.