Torchora
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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Roofing Estimator

💰 $65,000 - $95,000+ Annually (DOE)

ConstructionEstimatingSkilled TradesProject Management

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a meticulous and analytical professional with a passion for the construction industry? We are searching for a highly motivated Roofing Estimator to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will be the backbone of our pre-construction process, responsible for analyzing project plans, assessing costs, and preparing comprehensive bids that position our company for success. You'll serve as a critical link between our sales, project management, and field operations teams, ensuring that every project is scoped accurately and competitively from the very beginning. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have a keen eye for detail, this is your opportunity to make a significant impact on our company's growth and reputation.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Junior Estimator / Estimating Assistant
  • Roofing Field Technician or Foreman
  • Construction Project Coordinator
  • Inside Sales Representative (Construction/Building Materials)

Advancement To:

  • Senior Roofing Estimator / Lead Estimator
  • Chief Estimator
  • Project Manager
  • Sales & Estimating Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • General Construction Estimator
  • Building Envelope Consultant
  • Purchasing Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Analyze blueprints, specifications, proposals, and other construction documents to prepare comprehensive and accurate time, cost, material, and labor estimates.
  • Perform detailed and precise material take-offs for various roofing systems, including TPO, EPDM, PVC, metal, modified bitumen, and steep-slope applications.
  • Conduct thorough on-site roof inspections, field measurements, and condition assessments to identify project requirements, potential challenges, and unique site logistics.
  • Develop and write detailed, professional, and competitive project proposals and bid packages for submission to general contractors, building owners, and property managers.
  • Solicit and evaluate material pricing and subcontractor quotes from a network of trusted suppliers and partners to ensure competitive and accurate bidding.
  • Utilize industry-leading estimating software (such as The EDGE, AccuLynx, or StackCT) to build and finalize project estimates efficiently.
  • Prepare detailed scope of work letters that clearly outline project inclusions, exclusions, and clarifications for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Attend pre-bid meetings and site walk-throughs to gather critical project information and build relationships with potential clients.
  • Collaborate closely with the sales team to understand client needs and develop strategic bidding approaches to secure new contracts.
  • Communicate effectively with architects, consultants, and general contractors to clarify scope, specifications, and any ambiguities in the bid documents.
  • Maintain a comprehensive database of historical cost data, labor production rates, and material pricing to improve the accuracy of future estimates.
  • Review and assess project-specific warranty requirements and ensure all estimates comply with manufacturer specifications and installation guidelines.
  • Participate in the project hand-off process, thoroughly briefing the Project Manager and operations team on the project scope, budget, and schedule upon award.
  • Develop value engineering options and alternative solutions to provide clients with cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or performance.
  • Evaluate and manage bid-related risks, including logistical challenges, material availability, and labor constraints, incorporating contingencies as needed.
  • Prepare preliminary project schedules and logistics plans to be included with bid proposals.
  • Stay current with new roofing materials, application methods, building codes, and industry best practices to maintain a competitive edge.
    extra:
  • Respond to Requests for Information (RFIs) from clients or general contractors during the bidding phase.
  • Track and document all bid activity, including wins, losses, and reasons, to refine bidding strategies over time.
  • Assist in negotiating contract terms and final project costs with clients after a bid has been accepted.
  • Create detailed reports and presentations summarizing bid proposals and cost breakdowns for internal review by senior management.

Secondary Functions

  • Cultivate and maintain strong, professional relationships with material suppliers, subcontractors, general contractors, and clients.
  • Assist project management teams with change order pricing and cost analysis for scope modifications on active projects.
  • Participate in post-project review meetings to compare estimated costs versus actual costs, identifying areas for improvement in the estimating process.
  • Support the business development team by providing preliminary budgets and conceptual estimates for potential future projects.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Advanced Proficiency in Roofing Estimating Software: Expertise in platforms like The EDGE, StackCT, On-Screen Takeoff, or similar digital takeoff tools.
  • Blueprint and Specification Reading: Ability to thoroughly read, interpret, and understand architectural and structural drawings and project manuals.
  • In-Depth Knowledge of Roofing Systems: Comprehensive understanding of commercial and residential roofing systems (TPO, EPDM, PVC, Modified Bitumen, Metal, Shingles, Coatings).
  • Microsoft Office Suite Mastery: High proficiency in MS Excel for creating complex spreadsheets, as well as Word and Outlook.
  • Cost Analysis & Control: Strong ability to calculate labor, material, and equipment costs and assemble a complete project budget.
  • Proposal Writing: Skill in crafting clear, professional, and persuasive bid proposals and scope of work documents.
  • CRM Software: Experience using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software to track bids and client interactions.
  • Digital Measurement Tools: Familiarity with satellite and aerial imagery measurement tools like EagleView or GAF QuickMeasure.
  • Building Code Knowledge: Working knowledge of local and regional building codes and regulations related to roofing.
  • Take-off Accuracy: Proven ability to perform highly accurate and detailed material and labor take-offs.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional Attention to Detail: Meticulous and thorough in all aspects of the estimating process to ensure accuracy.
  • Strong Analytical and Mathematical Skills: Ability to perform complex calculations and analyze data to make informed decisions.
  • Effective Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with clients, vendors, and internal teams.
  • Time Management and Organization: Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
  • Problem-Solving: Proactive in identifying potential issues and developing practical solutions.
  • Negotiation Skills: Confidence and skill in negotiating pricing with suppliers and contract terms with clients.
  • Self-Motivated: Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and a strong internal drive to succeed.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Construction Management
  • Architecture or Architectural Technology
  • Business Administration
  • Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3-5+ years of direct experience in construction estimating, with a strong preference for experience focused on commercial and/or industrial roofing projects.

Preferred:

  • Demonstrable track record of successfully bidding and winning profitable roofing projects.
  • Field experience in roofing installation or project supervision is a significant asset.
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