Lead Estimator

ICON is seeking a Lead Estimator to lead the development of accurate, data-driven cost models and pricing strategies across a diverse portfolio of projects. As part of ICON’s Design-Build organization, this role operates within a vertically integrated delivery model where ICON serves as both designer and general contractor, responsible for all construction scopes from land development through interior finish-out. ICON’s Design-Build team executes a wide variety of project types, including residential, commercial, hospitality, education, and military (MILCON) projects, all anchored around ICON’s innovative 3D printing technology, which is revolutionizing the way structures are designed and built. This role is can be based at ICON’s Austin, TX campus or ICON's Miami, FL campus and will report to the Manager of Estimating.

Our ideal candidate is a highly analytical and detail-oriented construction professional with a deep understanding of estimating, scheduling, and cost control fundamentals. This individual must be comfortable working in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment that brings together design, material science, operations, and technology teams to redefine how buildings are delivered. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the preparation of detailed cost estimates, quantity takeoffs, and pricing models for a wide range of Design-Build projects, including production residential, custom residential, commercial, hospitality, educational, and other product types. 
• Develop and maintain comprehensive project budgets that integrate with ICON’s internal design, construction, and 3D printing operations.
• Partner with ICON’s Design Team, Build Operations, Print Operations, Material Supply Chain, and other teams to ensure project designs are both cost-efficient and constructible.
• Contribute throughout the  pre-construction phase during the  design development process with a focus on budget, constructability, and value engineering and early tradepartner engagement.
• Collaborate with the Building Design & Performance, Material Science, and Technology teams to identify innovative materials, processes, and design optimizations that result in measurable cost savings/value engineering.
• Support Business Development with conceptual and schematic-level estimates for project pursuits, proposals, and pricing strategies.
• Lead bid solicitations/RFP, evaluate subcontractor proposals, perform bid-leveling,  and ensure comprehensive scope coverage and competitive pricing.
• Conduct market research and maintain updated cost databases and benchmark models to reflect current pricing, escalation, and regional trends.
• Review design documents and specifications for accuracy, coordination, and completeness, providing actionable feedback to design and engineering teams.
• Support the development of project delivery strategies, procurement plans, and subcontractor engagement approaches that align with ICON’s integrated general contracting model.
• Prepare and present detailed estimate summaries, cost analyses, and variance reports to ICON leadership and client stakeholders.
• Serve as a technical resource to fellow estimators, project managers , construction managers and architects, promoting consistency, accuracy, and continuous improvement in ICON’s estimating processes.
• Develop reliable, defensible estimates with limited project documentation by applying industry experience and sound cost assumptions, clearly identifying scope gaps and risk factors.
• Deliver fast-turnaround estimates during early design and feasibility phases, making sound assumptions based on project type, location, and market conditions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• 3+ years of experience in construction estimating, construction management, purchasing, project engineering or other  pre-construction roles.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
• Proven track record of estimating projects as part of a general contractor or design-build organization, covering full project scopes from sitework through finish-out.
• Deep understanding of residential and light commercial construction, including both self-perform and subcontracted scopes.
• Expertise in cost modeling, value engineering, and risk management for complex and diverse project types.
• Proficiency with construction estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, PlanSwift, OST, RSMeans, Procore, or similar).
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills with high attention to detail.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets for data analysis, reporting, and cost modeling.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines including design, operations, and finance.
• Self-starter who thrives in a collaborative, high-growth environment and is passionate about advancing construction technology.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience working in design-build delivery where the contractor holds responsibility for both design coordination and construction execution.
• Background in innovative construction technologies such as modular construction, innovative materials, or delivery systems. 
• Familiarity with military construction (MILCON) or other government-funded project estimating requirements.
• Experience integrating estimates with BIM tools such as Revit and Navisworks.
• Strong presentation skills, with the ability to translate technical cost data into executive-level insights.
• Professional certifications such as Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or PMP are a plus.