Commercial Construction Estimator / Project… at Keller… · Milwaukee

Keller Executive Search is partnering with a leading painting and commercial coatings contractor to hire an experienced Painting Estimator and Project Manager. This is a dual role that combines detailed cost estimating with hands-on project delivery, ideal for a professional who enjoys owning a job from bid through final walkthrough.

In this position you will prepare accurate estimates for interior and exterior painting and coatings projects, then manage the crews, schedules, and budgets that bring those bids to life. You will work closely with clients, subcontractors, and field teams to ensure work is delivered on time, on budget, and to a high-quality standard.

This is an excellent opportunity for a detail-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced construction environment and wants a stable, well-compensated role with a respected contractor. If you have a strong track record in painting estimating and project management, we would like to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed, accurate cost estimates, takeoffs, proposals, and change orders for interior and exterior painting and coatings projects
• Review plans, specifications, blueprints, and site conditions to determine materials, labor, and equipment needs
• Perform on-site takeoffs, pre-bid walkthroughs, and scope assessments
• Develop competitive bids and proposals, and present them to prospective clients
• Manage projects from award through closeout, including scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation
• Coordinate and supervise field crews, subcontractors, materials, and jobsite logistics to meet quality and timeline targets
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle
• Track project costs, production rates, change orders, and margin performance
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and quality control procedures on all job sites
• Maintain accurate project documentation, estimate files, and closeout records

Additional Information

• On-site role with job-site presence and travel required as part of the position

Essential

• Proven experience as an estimator and/or project manager in the painting or commercial coatings industry
• Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, plans, specifications, and bid documents
• Demonstrated experience preparing accurate takeoffs and cost estimates
• Experience managing multiple projects, schedules, and budgets simultaneously
• Solid knowledge of painting and coatings materials, methods, and industry standards
• Strong organizational, communication, and client-relationship skills
• Proficiency with estimating software and standard office/project management tools
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to job sites as needed

Preferred

• Experience with commercial and/or industrial painting and coatings projects
• Familiarity with construction project management and digital takeoff software
• Knowledge of local building codes and safety regulations
• Prior field experience as a painter or foreman
• Relevant trade, construction management, estimating, or safety certifications

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a hands-on construction professional who combines the precision of an estimator with the leadership of a project manager. They are detail-focused, comfortable in both office and field settings, and skilled at balancing cost accuracy with practical execution. They build strong relationships with clients and crews alike and take pride in delivering quality work on time and on budget.

• Competitive base salary of $75,000 to $100,000, set according to experience within the stated range
• Potential performance bonus (structure and amount to be confirmed)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer-provided short-term disability coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions
• Generous paid time off package
• Company-paid holidays

Keller is a recruitment agency that provides services to clients ranging from startups and non profits to multinational corporations. Keller emphasizes ethical search processes, attentive candidate care, and leadership placements that support long-term client outcomes.

To learn more about the firm and about our candidate services - please visit our website

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.

Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.

Compensation Information: For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.

Compliance with Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Workplace Harassment: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

E-Verify Participation: Keller Executive Search and/or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable.

Privacy and Pay Equity:

• California Residents: For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at www.kellerexecutivesearch.com.
• Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
• Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.

State-Specific Information:

• Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
• Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
• New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.

Veteran Status: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment

Keller Executive Search and our clients may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the recruitment and candidate evaluation process. These tools are used exclusively to support human decision-making by helping to review and assess candidate qualifications and materials. AI is never used to automatically reject, disqualify, or make final hiring decisions about candidates. All AI-assisted evaluations are reviewed by experienced recruitment professionals, and all hiring decisions are made by qualified human recruiters. Our use of AI is designed to enhance fairness, consistency, and efficiency while maintaining our commitment to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination principles.

Genetic Information: In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.

Local Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.