Estimating Intern

TDH Steel is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Estimating Intern to support our Preconstruction team. This role is designed for candidates early in their construction career who are eager to gain hands-on estimating experience, develop technical skills in Preconstruction.  As Estimating Intern you will assist in preparing cost estimates, soliciting subcontractor bids, and maintaining historical cost data under the guidance of senior staff, while learning all facets of preconstruction for delivering accurate and reliable budgets.

Key Responsibilities
 

• Estimating Support which includes reading bid requirements.
• Perform basic quantity take-offs and assist in developing preliminary and detailed cost estimates. 
• Review construction drawings and specifications to identify scope requirements. 
• Assist in preparing bid packages, scopes of work, and subcontractor solicitations. 
• Bid Management includes tracking historical data, creating new bids and following up.
• Help collect and organize subcontractor and vendor proposals for detailing. 
• Support bid leveling and comparison efforts to ensure accuracy and completeness. 
• Maintain subcontractor database entries and assist with prequalification documentation. 
• Enter and track estimate data in company templates and software. 
• Update historical cost information and assist in developing benchmarking reports.  
• Prepare spreadsheets, summaries, and reports for review by senior estimators and management. 
• Gain exposure to value engineering strategies and cost-saving alternatives. 
• Participate in project site visits and meetings to better understand field conditions and logistics. 
  
   

Qualifications
 

• Working towards an Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field (preferred). 
• 0–2 years of estimating or construction experience (internships or co-ops count). 
• Familiarity with construction documents, plans, and specifications. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and exposure to estimating software (Procore, Sage, Bluebeam, Plan Swift/On-Screen Takeoff) is a plus. 
• Strong analytical, organizational, and time management skills. 
• Eagerness to learn, take direction, and be flexible for various tasks. 
  
   

Core Competencies
 

• Highly motivated with a strong work ethic. 
• Detail-oriented with a willingness to dig into the details of cost analysis. 
• Strong communicator with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. 
• Flexible, coachable, and receptive to constructive feedback. 
  
   

Why Join TDH Steel

At TDH Steel, we believe in developing talent from within as there is growth potential in this role. Located in Chesapeake, our facility is newly built office space with access to stores, restaurants, and highways. Our team embodies core values: teamwork, accountability, dedication, passion, integrity, communication, and endless improvement. As a Junior Estimator, you will gain exposure to a broad range of commercial projects—retail, office, mixed-use, and educational—and work directly with experienced professionals who are committed to mentoring and supporting your career growth. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to build a strong foundation in preconstruction and estimating within a company that values precision, integrity, and teamwork.