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Let’s be honest—most “job description” articles online are a copy-paste snoozefest.
They’ll give you a generic bullet list of duties, a vague paragraph about qualifications, and then drop a cold “Apply Now” at the bottom. No context. No emotion. No explanation of why any of it matters.
But here’s the thing:
If you want to hire a great Construction Estimator—someone who can keep your project profitable, catch red flags early, and confidently stand behind the numbers—you need more than a checklist.
You need a job post that actually connects.
This article will help you do exactly that.
We’ll walk you through:
- What a Construction Estimator actually does (in plain English)
- Two sample job descriptions: one for seasoned pros, one for entry-level candidates
- A breakdown of what makes those posts work—and what doesn’t
- A copy-paste template you can customize fast
- Bonus tips to help your job post stand out and attract high-quality applicants
💡 If you haven’t yet, I also recommend reading our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ . It shows why generic job posts fail—and how to write one that gets results.
Ready? Let’s build a job post that works.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What Does a Construction Estimator Actually Do?
A Construction Estimator is the person who figures out how much a construction project will cost — and whether or not it’s worth doing.
They read blueprints, visit sites, gather quotes, analyze labor and material needs, and turn all of that into detailed cost estimates that keep your project on budget and your business profitable.
But the best estimators do more than crunch numbers. They help you:
- Avoid underbidding or overpromising
- Catch cost risks before they derail a project
- Keep your clients informed with accurate, trustworthy numbers
In other words, a great estimator isn’t just calculating costs—they’re protecting your bottom line, your reputation, and your schedule.
That’s why attention to detail, communication, and industry knowledge matter just as much as math and spreadsheets.
Two Great Construction Estimator Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Experienced Construction Estimator – Job Description Template
📌 Job Title: Construction Estimator – Help Shape the Future of Mid-Sized Commercial Builds
Location: Tulsa, OK | Salary: $70,000–$85,000/year (DOE) | Type: Full-Time | Experience: 3+ years
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
Before we jump into the details, take a quick moment to hear from our Lead Estimator, Michael, about how we work, what we value, and what it’s like to be part of the pricing engine behind every successful build we take on.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube video here]
🏢 Who We Are
We’re Basin Ridge Construction, a mid-sized commercial construction firm based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Over the last 12 years, we’ve completed more than 300 successful projects—ranging from dental clinics and auto centers to logistics hubs and retail complexes.
What sets us apart? We don’t overpromise and underdeliver. We win bids by being accurate, fair, and deeply collaborative with our clients. That’s why 75% of our business comes from repeat customers.
Now, we’re looking for a Construction Estimator who can help us grow smart by making sure our bids are sharp, reliable, and set up for success.
🛠 What You’ll Do
As our Estimator, you’ll be responsible for turning drawings and specs into clean, accurate proposals. You’ll own the preconstruction math—conducting takeoffs, sourcing vendor pricing, and working with our project management team to ensure scope alignment.
Your day-to-day will include:
- Reviewing architectural plans and technical specs
- Performing material and labor takeoffs using PlanSwift and Bluebeam
- Requesting and comparing subcontractor quotes
- Building detailed cost breakdowns and presenting bid packages
- Working closely with the PM team to ensure estimates translate into real-world margins
✅ What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years of experience estimating commercial projects ($250K–$5M range)
- Proficiency in PlanSwift, Bluebeam, and Excel
- Familiarity with Oklahoma construction codes and pricing
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
- Excellent communication—verbal and written
- Ability to juggle multiple bids with tight deadlines
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
If you’re tired of being siloed or stuck behind a desk with no input—you’ll love it here. We loop our estimators into real project strategy and client conversations. You’ll have ownership, autonomy, and the support of a team that knows how to deliver.
We’re growing, but we’re still small enough that your work will directly shape our success. This role is ideal for someone who wants to be trusted, not micromanaged.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary ($70K–$85K based on experience)
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance (fully covered)
- 401(k) with 4% company match
- 15 days PTO + 5 additional flex days
- Laptop and software provided
- Mileage reimbursement for site visits
- Professional development allowance (we’ll pay for your CE courses or certifications)
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to help us evaluate candidates quickly and fairly. You’ll complete a short, role-relevant evaluation that helps us understand your strengths—no resume needed.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
🌱 Entry-Level Construction Estimator – Job Description Template
📌 Job Title: Junior Estimator – Learn on the Job with a Real Construction Team
Location: Tulsa, OK | Salary: $20–$24/hour | Type: Full-Time | Experience: Not Required
🎥 Meet the Estimator You’ll Be Learning From
Our lead estimator, Michael, walks you through what your first 30 days will look like, how we train new hires, and how we support growth—even if you’re brand new to the industry.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube video here]
🏢 About Basin Ridge Construction
We’re a commercial construction firm headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma—and we believe great builds start with strong systems and even stronger people. From dental clinics to industrial warehouses, we’ve handled more than 300 successful projects by staying true to our word and backing it up with clear numbers and sharp execution.
We’re not just hiring an entry-level estimator—we’re offering a pathway into a real career. If you’re detail-oriented, curious, and want to work in construction without swinging a hammer, this could be your next step.
🛠 What You’ll Do
You’ll assist our lead estimator and learn how to:
- Read blueprints and construction specs
- Perform material takeoffs
- Source pricing from suppliers and subcontractors
- Prepare cost estimates and track bid status
- Use industry software like PlanSwift and Bluebeam
Training is provided—and you’ll shadow real jobs from day one.
✅ What We’re Looking For
- High school diploma or GED (no degree required)
- Strong interest in construction, math, or project planning
- Eager to learn new tools and software
- Detail-oriented, curious, and a team player
- Great communicator—written and verbal
✨ Bonus if you’ve taken drafting, architecture, or CAD classes—but we’ll train you either way.
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t an internship or a temp job—it’s a launchpad. We’ll show you the ropes, support your growth, and give you space to contribute early. You won’t be making coffee or doing busy work. You’ll be working on real bids, for real jobs, with real guidance.
If you’re looking for a role where you’ll be supported and challenged—this is it.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Starting pay: $20–$24/hr
- Full training & mentorship included
- Health, dental, and vision insurance (after 90 days)
- $1,000/year professional development budget
- 10 days PTO + 5 paid flex days
- On-the-job certifications covered
- All software and tools provided
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to keep things fair and efficient. Just click the link below to complete a short evaluation—we’ll review your responses personally and follow up with next steps. No experience required.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Why These Construction Estimator Job Posts Work
1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Purpose-Driven
Instead of something vague like “Estimator Needed,” the titles spell out the role, who it’s for, and what makes it different:
- “Construction Estimator – Help Shape the Future of Mid-Sized Commercial Builds” speaks to professionals ready to lead cost strategy on serious projects.
- “Junior Estimator – Learn on the Job with a Real Construction Team” invites motivated beginners into a clear career path.
This increases relevance—and filters for the right people fast.
2. Each Post Starts with a Human Touch
Both roles include a Loom video from a real team member.
That small detail adds trust and gives candidates a sense of the people they’ll be working with. It’s especially helpful for skeptical applicants who’ve had bad hiring experiences—or those considering multiple offers.
3. The “About Us” Sections Are Company-Specific
We didn’t use placeholder boilerplate like “We’re a leading company in the construction industry…”
We wrote for a real, grounded company (Basin Ridge Construction), with a track record, regional focus, and clearly stated values.
This gives applicants a sense of place and purpose, and helps them picture what it’s like to work there.
4. The Job Responsibilities Connect the Role to Real Impact
Instead of dumping a list of duties, each post explains why the tasks matter.
- In the experienced version, it shows how the estimator contributes to profitability, risk reduction, and client trust.
- In the junior version, it highlights that the trainee won’t just be observing—they’ll work on real bids from day one.
That makes the role feel meaningful, not just mechanical.
5. Perks and Benefits Are Clearly Listed
Many job posts either skip this part or bury it. These examples show:
- What’s offered (from health insurance to PTO)
- When it kicks in (e.g., “after 90 days”)
- What makes it unique (e.g., pro dev budget, flex days)
That builds trust and sets expectations early—reducing ghosting and offer rejections later in the process.
6. The Hiring Process Respects the Applicant
Each post explains that the company uses WorkScreen to evaluate applicants based on skills—not just resumes.
That:
- Signals fairness
- Lowers the barrier for people who are qualified but don’t have the “perfect” resume
- Shows the company respects the candidate’s time and wants a real, two-way fit
It’s a strong signal that you take hiring seriously—and treat candidates like people.
7. The Tone Is Warm, Clear, and Motivating
These aren’t job posts that sound like legal contracts or internal HR memos. They speak to real people. They invite them into something that matters.
That alone can make the difference between an applicant clicking “Apply” or clicking away.
Bad Construction Estimator Job Post Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Estimator
Location: Oklahoma
Type: Full-Time
Company Overview
We are a construction company looking for an estimator to join our team.
Responsibilities
- Estimate costs for labor, materials, and time
- Review blueprints and specifications
- Work with project managers to prepare bids
- Maintain cost databases
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree preferred
2–5 years experience
- Strong communication and math skills
Salary: Based on experience
How to Apply
Please email your resume and cover letter to hr@constructionfirm.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
1. The Job Title Is Too Vague
“Estimator” doesn’t say what type of estimator or give any sense of seniority, industry, or purpose. Generic titles get overlooked or attract unqualified candidates.
2. The Company Intro Has No Personality
“We are a construction company” is the bare minimum. There’s no mission, no specialization, no region, no team story—nothing to help candidates understand who they’d be working with or why they should care.
3. The Responsibilities Are Boring and Generic
These bullet points could’ve been pulled from any estimating role in any company. They don’t explain:
- What kind of projects the estimator will work on
- What tools are used
- What makes the job important
Great candidates want to understand how they’ll make an impact—not just what they’ll be responsible for.
4. There’s No Transparency on Pay or Perks
“Salary based on experience” is not enough. Today’s job seekers expect ranges, timelines, and at least some mention of benefits. Leaving it out signals vagueness or low pay—and drives away serious applicants.
5. The Hiring Process Feels Dismissive
Saying “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels cold and outdated. It puts all the burden on the candidate and says nothing about how the company evaluates talent, what the next steps are, or whether the process is fair.
6. No Tone, No Story, No Connection
There’s no human touch. No “why.” No emotional pull. No sense of the team or the culture or even the working environment. It reads like it was copy-pasted from a 2006 job board.
If you want to attract top-tier talent, you can’t just list tasks and hope for the best. You need to tell a story, set expectations, and create a connection. Otherwise, the best candidates will move on—and you’ll be stuck sorting through underqualified resumes.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
🔒 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Build trust by reassuring candidates you’ll never misuse their data.
Include a short, clear line like:
“We take your privacy seriously. We’ll never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any stage of the hiring process.”
This signals that you’re a legitimate employer—not just another scammy job listing.
🌴 2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Time off matters. And many job descriptions forget to include it. Even something simple like:
“Enjoy 15 days PTO + 5 flex days per year so you can rest, recharge, and come back stronger.”
…can make your job feel way more attractive.
📚 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Top candidates want to grow, not just do the same tasks forever. If you offer mentorship, upskilling, or career advancement—even informally—say so.
“We invest in your growth. You’ll get on-the-job training, mentorship from senior team members, and a professional development budget to help you level up.”
That turns your post from “just another job” into a career path.
🎥 4. Add a Video (Even a Simple Loom)
We mentioned this earlier—but it’s worth repeating:
Adding a short video from the hiring manager, team lead, or even a peer on the team builds trust and makes your company feel more real.
Don’t overthink it—just a 1–2 minute Loom or YouTube video with someone saying:
- Who they are
- What the team’s like
- What success in this role looks like
That’s enough to stand out in a sea of faceless job posts.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
AI tools make it easy to generate job descriptions with one click. But if you’re not careful, they can also hurt your hiring efforts.
Here’s what you need to know.
⚠️ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
Auto-generating a job post with no context might save you time…
But what you end up with is usually:
- Generic language that fails to connect with serious candidates
- Buzzwords and bullet points with no emotional pull
- A job post that sounds like every other listing out there
The result?
You attract low-effort applicants, turn off experienced talent, and miss your chance to stand out.
A job post is more than a description—it’s your first impression. It reflects your culture, your values, and the kind of team you’re building. Don’t hand that over blindly to a machine.
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI (With Context)
AI can be a powerful writing assistant—if you feed it the right raw materials.
Here’s how to use it properly:
🧠 Step 1: Provide Real Inputs
Instead of saying “Write a job post for a construction estimator,”
Try prompting with this:
“Help me write a job description for our company, Basin Ridge Construction. We’re hiring a Construction Estimator to help us bid mid-sized commercial projects more accurately. Our company culture is collaborative, fast-paced, and quality-focused. We want to attract candidates who are detail-oriented, confident, and team-driven.
We offer a salary range of $70K–$85K, medical insurance, PTO, and a professional development budget.
Here’s our hiring process and how we treat candidates: [Insert process].
Also, here are a few notes I’ve written so far: [Paste your notes].
Please generate a job post that reflects our tone, values, and mission.”
You’re giving AI the context to shape a real, compelling message—not just filler content.
🛠 Step 2: Use AI for Polishing, Not Planning
Once you’ve written your rough draft (or used one of our templates), use AI to:
- Refine sentence flow
- Improve clarity
- Condense repetition
- Adjust tone
Don’t use AI to replace thinking. Use it to enhance communication.
💬 Bottom Line
AI should support your hiring voice—not replace it.
Give it strong, human inputs… and it’ll help you write faster without losing authenticity.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
We get it—sometimes you don’t have time to build a job post from scratch. Maybe you’ve already read this guide and know what makes a great one. You just need a fast, reliable foundation to start from.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: Construction Estimator – Help Shape the Future of Our Projects
Location: [City, State] | Salary: [Insert Salary Range] | Job Type: Full-Time | Experience: [Insert]
🎥 Meet the Team:
[Insert Loom video link from hiring manager or team member here]
🏢 Who We Are
At [Company Name], we specialize in [residential/commercial/civil] construction. For [X] years, we’ve completed [types of projects or notable work]. What sets us apart? We lead with integrity, focus on quality, and build lasting relationships with our clients and team members.
🛠 What You’ll Be Doing
- Review blueprints and technical specs
- Perform takeoffs and create accurate cost estimates
- Source bids from subs and suppliers
- Work with project managers to align on scope and budget
- Present clear proposals to leadership or clients
✅ What We’re Looking For
- years of estimating experience
- Experience with [Insert Estimating Tools]
- Detail-oriented with strong math and organizational skills
- Confident communicator and team collaborator
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You won’t be boxed into a back office role. You’ll have input on pricing strategy, direct access to leadership, and real ownership of the estimating process. If you want to grow your impact—not just crunch numbers—this is for you.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- PTO + flex days
- 401(k) or retirement plan
- Professional development or certification budget
- Equipment and software provided
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make hiring fast, fair, and skills-based. Click below to complete your application.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
📄 Option 2: Structured Format (Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements)
Job Title: Construction Estimator
Location: [Insert Location]
Job Type: [Full-Time / Part-Time / Contract]
Salary: [Insert Range]
Job Brief:
We’re hiring a Construction Estimator to support our growing team at [Company Name]. In this role, you’ll prepare accurate cost estimates, support bid submissions, and work closely with project managers to ensure budgets align with client expectations and project scope.
Responsibilities:
- Analyze drawings, specs, and project documents
- Estimate labor, materials, equipment, and time costs
- Prepare and submit detailed bid packages
- Liaise with suppliers and subcontractors for up-to-date pricing
- Support value engineering and change order processes
- Maintain and update cost databases
Requirements:
- years of experience in construction estimating
- Familiarity with [Software Tools]
- Strong communication and analytical skills
- Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously
- [Degree, if required]
Perks & Benefits:
- Health, dental, vision
- PTO and paid holidays
- Continuing education support
- Annual performance bonuses
- 401(k) or matching plan
- Laptop, phone, and work tools provided
How to Apply:
Click below to apply through WorkScreen and complete your short skills-based evaluation.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Next Step: Let WorkScreen Handle the Evaluation
Writing a great job description is the first step.
But what happens after you post it?
If you’re like most employers, your inbox fills up with:
- Resumes that all look the same
- Candidates who say the right things—but can’t actually do the job
- Low-effort applicants using ChatGPT to answer your questions
That’s where WorkScreen comes in.
WorkScreen helps you:
🔎 Quickly Identify Your Most Promising Candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
🧠 Test for Skills, Not Just Buzzwords
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
🚫 Eliminate Low-Effort, AI-Generated, or Spammy Applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
💡 It’s Simple to Use
- Create your job post
- Share the WorkScreen link in one click
- Let us handle the rest: screening, scoring, and ranking
No more sorting resumes. No more second-guessing. No more hiring mistakes.
👉 Sign up with WorkScreen now and start hiring smarter today:
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Construction Estimator
Aside from technical skills like blueprint reading and quantity takeoffs, great estimators bring a mix of soft and hard skills:
- Attention to detail: Small errors can lead to costly mistakes.
- Time management: Estimators often work under tight bid deadlines.
- Industry knowledge: They should understand local codes, subcontractor networks, and regional material pricing.
- Communication: They must explain numbers clearly to PMs, clients, and vendors.
- Analytical thinking: Estimating isn’t just math—it’s problem-solving under uncertainty.
- Familiarity with tools: Software like PlanSwift, Bluebeam, or ProEst is often required.
Look for someone who can combine sharp calculations with good judgment.
As of 2025, the average salary for a Construction Estimator in the U.S. ranges from $65,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on:
- Region (urban areas tend to pay more)
- Type of construction (commercial projects typically pay more than residential)
- Experience level
- Company size
Junior or entry-level estimators may start around $45,000–$55,000, while seasoned estimators working on large commercial builds can earn over $100,000+, especially if bonuses or commissions are included.
Instead of relying on resumes alone, it’s smart to test candidates on real-world estimating scenarios. You can:
- Give them a basic set of plans and ask for a rough takeoff
- Have them walk through how they’d approach a cost estimate for a project
- Use WorkScreen to assess written communication, attention to detail, or number sense
- Ask about how they handle scope changes, RFIs, or vendor delays
The best candidates can explain how they think—not just what they’ve done.
The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but here’s the difference:
- A Construction Estimator is usually more involved in the pre-construction phase—preparing bids, working with subs, and supporting business development.
- A Quantity Surveyor (more common in the UK and Australia) often plays a broader role in cost management throughout the project—tracking budgets, issuing change orders, and managing financial compliance.
In the U.S., the role “Construction Estimator” is more common in the commercial and residential space.
