Company Overview
RBA Builders is a full-service General Contractor with a self-performing tenant improvement division, serving the commercial, industrial, entertainment, educational, aerospace, and medical sectors throughout Southern California.
Our loyal, dedicated team is the foundation of our success. We pride ourselves on delivering innovative, practical solutions that exceed client expectations while using the latest technologies and industry best practices.
At RBA, our culture drives everything we do. We remain true to our founding values of
safety, quality, honesty, and hard work, and we prioritize building long-term, trusted relationships. These principles guide our four Core Values :
- Do the right thing, even when it is inconvenient
- Fun, family, fellowship
- We are here for you
- Fiscally committed to the team's success
These values shape how we treat our team members, support our clients, and influence positive change throughout the construction industry.
We are RBA Builders LLC, and we are committed to being the Contractor of Choice-for our clients and for our employees.
Our headquarters is proudly located in Fountain Valley, California.
Job Overview
The Construction Estimator plays a key role in our preconstruction team, supporting the development of accurate, competitive, and well-supported cost estimates for commercial construction projects. This position is ideal for someone who is detail-oriented, collaborative, and eager to grow in a company where safety, integrity, and career development are top priorities.
Working under the guidance of senior team members, the Estimator will take ownership of specific scopes, perform quantity takeoffs, analyze drawings and specifications, and support bid strategy while contributing meaningful insight to the estimating process.
Key Responsibilities
Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and develop scope sheetsReview drawings, specifications, and addenda for estimating accuracyEvaluate and compare subcontractor bids for completeness and consistencyPrepare written scope clarifications and bid-leveling documentsTrack RFI responses, addenda updates, and project changesAssist with internal estimate breakdowns, cost assumptions, and value engineering discussionsCollaborate with the preconstruction and project management teams to address constructability and scheduling considerationsSupport continuous improvement of estimating processes and templatesRequirements
Prior experience estimating commercial construction projectsFamiliarity with CSI divisions, drawing / specification review, and trade-specific scopesUnderstanding of constructability principles and schedule impactsStrong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple active bidsEducation
Bachelor's degree in construction management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferredExperience
2-5 years of estimating experience in commercial constructionExperience with general contracting or construction management firms strongly preferredSkills
Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and project documentsProficiency in Microsoft Excel, Bluebeam, and digital takeoff toolsStrong written and verbal communication skills for interacting with subcontractors and internal teamsAttention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving capabilitiesAbilities
Work independently while also collaborating closely with senior estimators and project teamsIdentify scope gaps, inconsistencies, and value-engineering opportunitiesUnderstand schedule impacts related to sequencing and scope decisionsTake initiative and maintain accountability for assigned scopes and tasksCertifications
None requiredOSHA 10, LEED familiarity, or DBIA principles are beneficialPreferred Qualifications
Experience in healthcare, higher education, or entertainment projectsFamiliarity with Procore, Building Connected, or similar estimating / project management platformsWorking Conditions
Primarily an office-based position with occasional jobsite visits and pre-bid meetingsStandard business hours with some overtime required during key bid phasesBenefits
Competitive salary based on experienceMedical, dental, and vision insuranceRetirement plan with company matchPaid time off and paid holidaysProfessional development and career advancement opportunities within a growing organizationA supportive, team-centered culture built on safety, integrity, and long-term success