Project Controls & Estimating Specialist… at JANSON · Fairfax

JANSON is recognized for delivering service-excellence through a disciplined approach of listening, thoughtful problem-solving, and execution. We are passionate about our work and committed to taking care of our customers, our employees, and our partners. If you are driven to make a meaningful impact, support our customers’ missions, and advance your professional growth within a purpose-driven organization, we invite you to explore opportunities to join the JANSON team.

Project Controls & Estimating Specialist (Renovations)

Location: Fairfax, VA [Hybrid]

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Reports To: Director of Construction | Program Manager | Controller

Position Summary

We are a premier $50M construction renovation firm seeking a dual-threat Project Controls & Estimating Specialist. Renovation projects are dynamic, complex, and full of variables. In this role, you will own the entire financial and scheduling lifecycle of our projects. You will be responsible for uncovering hidden costs during the bidding phase, and then staying embedded during construction to control budgets, manage change orders, and keep schedules on track. This role bridges the gap between preconstruction strategy and on-site reality.

Key Responsibilities

Phase 1: Renovation Estimating & Bidding (Approx. 50%)

• Site Investigations: Conduct thorough site walk-throughs of existing structures to identify logistical constraints, structural hurdles, and potential unforeseen conditions.
• Demolition & Scope Takeoffs: Perform precise material, labor, and selective demolition takeoffs from architectural drawings and field measurements.
• Subcontractor Buying: Solicit, scope-check, and level competitive bids from specialized trade subcontractors (MEP, framing, finishes) ensuring no gaps in renovation scope.
• Contingency & Risk Planning: Develop realistic project contingencies to account for hazardous materials (asbestos/lead), code compliance upgrades, and structural unknowns.

Phase 2: Project Controls & Variance Tracking (Approx. 50%)

• Live Budget Tracking: Establish baseline project budgets and continuously track actual expenditures against commitments in real-time.
• Schedule & Phasing Management: Update and manage project schedules, closely monitoring phasing plans, long-lead material deliveries, and critical milestones to minimize disruption to occupied spaces.
• Aggressive Change Order Control: Evaluate, price, and negotiate owner and subcontractor change orders immediately as site conditions evolve, protecting company margins.
• Financial Forecasting: Perform monthly cost-to-complete analyses and cash flow projections to flag budget overages before they happen.
• Executive Reporting: Present clear financial health and schedule variance reports to project managers and executive leadership.

Minimum Requirements and Qualifications

• Experience: 4–7 years of experience in estimating and/or project controls, with a strong emphasis on commercial or residential renovation and tenant improvement (TI) projects.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Civil Engineering, or equivalent field experience.

Software Proficiency:

• Advanced knowledge of digital takeoff and estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, Procore, Sage, On-Center).
• Proficiency in scheduling tools (e.g., Procore, Smartsheet, MS Project, Primavera P6).
• Advanced Excel skills for custom financial tracking and forecasting.
• Core Competencies: Deep understanding of interior finishes (FFE) currently in existing buildings, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to solve unforeseen field issues analytically.

Benefits at JANSON

JANSON provides a competitive benefits package with all the things we love and need:

• Medical and dental benefits
• Hybrid work flexibility
• 401K with matching incentive
• Short and Long-term disability
• Life insurance
• PTO
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities