Lead Construction Estimator

Cava Companies LLC is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented

Construction Estimator to join our team. This role is essential to our success across a diverse portfolio of projects, including residential renovations, new construction, and commercial multifamily developments.

The ideal candidate will have extensive field experience, strong analytical skills, and a deep understanding of construction methods and market pricing.

Compensation:

$70,000 - $75,000 yearly

Responsibilities:Preliminary & Conceptual Estimating

• Provide high-level conceptual estimates during the acquisition phase to help determine project feasibility and investment potential.
  
• Collaborate with the acquisitions team to assess scope, risk, and cost implications of potential projects.
  

Detailed Project Estimating

• Develop comprehensive estimates for approved projects, including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractor costs, and overhead.
  
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and value engineering options to improve project margins.
  

Construction Phase Support

• Create, document, and manage change orders in coordination with the construction team.
  
• Collaborate with designers to ensure design intent aligns with budget constraints and construction feasibility.
  

Proposal Development & Team Collaboration

• Prepare and present professional bid proposals and cost breakdowns to internal stakeholders and, when applicable, external partners.
  
• Work closely with Project Managers, Designers, Engineers, and other team members to ensure estimates align with project goals and timelines.
  

Market Research & Cost Tracking

• Monitor market trends, material pricing, and labor rates to ensure cost accuracy and competitiveness.
  
• Maintain and refine historical cost databases and unit pricing for future reference.
  

Technology & Process Optimization

• Use Microsoft Excel at a high level to build, manage, and analyze estimates and budgets.
  
• Utilize Buildertrend and Yardi as needed-training can be provided for these platforms.
  
• Contribute to the development and refinement of estimating templates and workflows.
  

Qualifications:Experience

• Minimum 5 years of experience in construction estimating, with a strong background in residential renovations, new construction, and multifamily/commercial projects.
  
• Proven ability to produce both conceptual and detailed estimates under tight timelines.
  

Education

• Associate�s or Bachelor�s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent experience is highly valued.
  

Technical Proficiency

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel is preferred.
  
• Familiarity with Buildertrend and Yardi is a plus; training will be provided.
  
• Strong understanding of construction materials, methods, and labor practices.
  

Key Skills

• Analytical Thinking: Ability to break down complex scopes into accurate cost components.
  
• Attention to Detail: Skilled at identifying discrepancies in plans and uncovering cost-saving opportunities.
  
• Time Management: Capable of managing multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
  
• Communication: Clear and professional communication with internal teams, subcontractors, and occasional external partners.
  

Adaptability: Comfortable working across a variety of project types and phases.

Perks and Bonuses: Awarded upon hitting core metrics and competencies

About Company

Cava Companies is a local leader in the residential real estate industry and residential rental management business. We are a medium-sized business consisting of top-producing, friendly, and positive people. Our senior management and staff have extensive experience in real estate development, finance, economic development, project management, leasing, and property management. We have in-depth knowledge of the Richmond market, contacts, and the growth trend of this great city.