Estimator – Reconstruction (Property Damage Restoration)

Location: On-site / Field-Based (Regional Travel Required)
Industry: Environmental Services / Property Damage Restoration
Employment Type: Full-Time
Experience Level: Mid-Level (3–8 Years)

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and customer-focused Estimator – Reconstruction to join our property restoration team. This role is responsible for evaluating and estimating residential and commercial property damage caused by fire, water, wind, and other catastrophic events.

The ideal candidate combines strong construction knowledge with estimating expertise and demonstrates empathy, professionalism, and urgency when working with property owners during stressful loss situations.

This position operates in a fast-paced, field-driven environment and requires the ability to manage multiple claims simultaneously while ensuring accuracy, compliance, and excellent customer service.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct on-site inspections of residential and commercial properties affected by fire, water, wind, and structural damage.
• Prepare accurate and timely reconstruction estimates using Xactimate and other estimating tools.
• Document field findings and input detailed data into estimating and CRM systems.
• Collaborate directly with property owners to assess damage scope and explain restoration processes.
• Negotiate repair scopes and pricing with insurance adjusters, third-party administrators, and carriers.
• Maintain complete and accurate job file documentation, ensuring compliance with internal and external standards.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Coordinate with project managers, construction teams, and subcontractors to ensure accurate scope execution.
• Demonstrate strong understanding of construction means, methods, and restoration practices.
• Ensure all communication is professional, timely, and well-documented.
• Participate in job planning, budgeting, and project execution discussions.
• Travel within the assigned region for inspections and project site visits.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent education (2–4 year degree preferred).
• 2–4+ years of experience in construction estimating, restoration, or related field.
• Strong working knowledge of residential and/or commercial construction practices.
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record.
• Ability to work in field environments, including damaged or hazardous job sites.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.

Technical Skills

• Xactimate estimating software (preferred or willingness to learn)
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• CRM systems (Encircle, PSA, Luxor CRM or similar)
• Basic project management and scheduling tools
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills for cost estimating

Certifications (Preferred)

• IICRC Certifications:
  • WRT (Water Restoration Technician)
  • ASD (Applied Structural Drying)
  • FSRT (Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician)
  • OCT (Odor Control Technician)
• Wisconsin Dwelling Contractor Certification (or equivalent, if applicable)

Core Competencies

• Strong estimating and construction knowledge
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Customer empathy and professionalism in sensitive situations
• Ability to manage time-sensitive, high-volume workloads
• Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
• Strong collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders
• Adaptability in field and office environments

Work Environment

• Combination of field and office-based work
• Frequent exposure to damaged properties (fire, water, storm, structural loss)
• Physical activity including walking, climbing, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and navigating uneven surfaces
• Moderate travel within assigned region (tri-state or similar service area)
• Company-provided vehicle may be assigned for field operations

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary (based on experience)
• Full medical, dental, and vision coverage (eligible after 60 days)
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off (2 weeks PTO + 1 week sick leave in first year; increased thereafter)
• Company vehicle provided (field role dependent)
• Employee recognition programs (Employee of the Month/Year)
• Annual performance-based rewards and company events

Interview Process

1. Phone screening with Talent Acquisition
2. In-person interview with Hiring Manager
3. Final on-site interview with leadership team

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to join a growing restoration organization where you will play a critical role in helping families and businesses recover from unexpected property loss. You will work in a supportive, fast-moving environment that values accuracy, integrity, and customer care while providing strong career development opportunities in estimating and project management.