Estimator
About Us
Company Overview
Foundation Building Materials (FBM) is a leading construction materials distribution company serving the commercial and residential construction markets across United States and Canada. In conjunction with Unified Door & Hardware Group (UDHG), a premier provider of commercial door, frame, and hardware solutions, FBM supports a broad range of construction and architectural projects nationwide.
Together, FBM and UDHG’s 8,000+ Team Members are committed to operational excellence, innovation, and employee development. By combining scale, specialty expertise, and a customer-first mindset, we deliver high-quality products and services to contractors, builders, and project teams across diverse markets. As the organization continues to grow and evolve following the recent acquisition by Lowe’s, we are investing in strong, forward-thinking talent to support our long-term success.
Overview
Position Overview
The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, timely, and competitive material estimates that support Foundation Building Materials’ commercial and residential sales efforts. This role works closely with Outside Sales Representatives, contractors, project managers, and branch operations to review project documents, perform material takeoffs, and develop pricing proposals aligned with project scope and margin objectives.
The Estimator plays a critical role in supporting profitable growth by translating construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents into clear, comprehensive quotes that position FBM as a reliable and knowledgeable partner. This position requires strong attention to detail, construction knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.
The ideal candidate combines technical proficiency in reading construction documents with strong analytical skills and a customer-focused mindset, ensuring accuracy, responsiveness, and alignment between sales commitments and operational execution.
Responsibilities and Qualifications
Key Responsibilities
Commercial Estimating & Takeoffs
- Review commercial construction drawings, specifications, addenda, and bid documents to develop accurate material takeoffs and cost estimates
- Prepare detailed estimates for drywall acoustical and specialty items and related commercial building materials in accordance with project requirements
- Identify scope requirements, exclusions, alternates, and assumptions to ensure clarity and accuracy in proposals
Pricing & Proposal Development
- Develop competitive pricing proposals aligned with project scope, market conditions, and margin objectives
- Collaborate with internal Sales and Operations, as well as market manufacturers and vendors to confirm product availability, lead times, logistics considerations, and installation constraints
- Prepare and deliver bid packages, revisions, and value-engineering options as required by commercial clients
Customer & Sales Support
- Partner with commercial sales representatives to support contractor relationships and project pursuits
- Respond to customer questions related to scope, quantities, specifications, pricing and installation procedures
- Participate in pre-bid meetings, scope reviews, and post-bid clarifications as needed
Project Tracking & Coordination
- Track active bids, awarded projects, and lost opportunities to support forecasting and pipeline visibility
- Role will facilitate the project from estimating stage through project completion, including submittal, sample and shop drawing processes, creating customer orders, issuing purchase orders to vendors and scheduling material delivery to the customer
- Assist customers with installation training and technical support as needed
- Maintain organized estimating records, files, and bid documentation
Process Improvement & Market Awareness
- Stay current on commercial construction trends, local market conditions, and product developments
- Identify opportunities to improve estimating accuracy, efficiency, and standardization
- Support continuous improvement initiatives within the estimating and commercial sales functions
Additional Responsibilities
- Perform other duties as assigned to support branch, regional, or commercial operations objectives
Qualifications
- Experience: 3+ years of estimating experience in commercial construction, building materials distribution, or related construction disciplines
- Technical Skills: Strong ability to read and interpret commercial construction drawings and specifications
- Estimating Tools: Experience with takeoff and estimating software preferred (e.g., On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or similar)
- Construction Knowledge: Working knowledge of drywall, framing, insulation, and related commercial construction systems preferred
- Analytical Skills: Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple bids, projects, and deadlines simultaneously
- Communication: Effective written and verbal communication skills with a customer-service mindset
- Technical Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and Outlook
Compensation and Benefits
Reports To
Regional Sales Manager
Compensation
The listed pay range reflects the expected base rate for the position; actual compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, qualifications and cost of living in the assigned market. This is a full-time position with competitive pay and benefits.
- Base: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits
At FBM, we’re committed to supporting our employees both personally and professionally. We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to help you thrive inside and outside of work. Our excellent package includes:
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- HSA/ FSA plans
- Voluntary Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
- Critical illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Coverage
- Legal Insurance Plan
- Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
- Generous 401(k) plan with company match
Statements
Equal Opportunity Employer
Foundation Building Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We value diversity and inclusion and are dedicated to creating a workplace where all employees feel respected and empowered. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws, we provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to help them perform the essential functions of their job. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process or while employed, please contact Human Resources at Talent@myfbm.com.
Posting Period
This job will be posted for at least 5 days, starting on the initial post date reflected above.