Fall 2025 Estimating Intern
Learn and Assist the Estimating Process
- Understand CSI divisions and structure of estimates.
- Reading plans and specifications.
- Generate Bid Solicitations to project specific subcontract base using Columbia’s ITB Software.
- Communicate via phone, email, and text with subcontractors to secure/confirm bid participation.
- Log sub responses on the Extranet and maintain established sublist.
- Manage bid documents and distribute electronically.
- Assist Estimator with the distribution of project information or clarifications to subcontractors.
- Perform quantity take off using On Screen Takeoff (OST) and Assemble.
- Develop an understanding of using various estimating software. (OST, BlueBeam, Extranet, Assemble, In-site, etc.)
- Assist the Estimator with the creation of trade specific tabulation sheets and project scopes.
- Develop a clear understanding of each trade’s scope of work.
- Attend site visits and subcontractor walk-throughs as required.
- Participate in project meetings and budget reviews when appropriate.
Proposal and Interview Involvement
- Assist with providing proposal deliverables under the direction of the estimating team when called upon.
Subcontractor Relationships
- Establish working relationships with subcontractors.
- Effectively and respectfully communicate with subcontractors to ensure timely and accurate bids.
Continuous Improvement and Educational Learning
- Attend industry events when appropriate.
- Improve existing knowledge of estimating by successfully:
- Reading plans & specs
- Performing takeoff
- Communicating with subs
- Participate in weekly preconstruction team huddles
- Proactive an ambitious/willingness to learn
Work Environment
- Office setting: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Construction Site: Walking the site on uneven walking surfaces, climbing ladders, being around machinery with moving parts and around heavy equipment.
- Protective gear: Wearing personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, clothing, and a hard hat, for most of the day while on the construction site.
- Work Hours: This position generally works standard hours, but may work extended hours, nights, and weekends, especially during critical project phases, to address project delays or to assist with site coverage.
- Company Culture: Columbia strives to maintain a culture that is respectful of family and work/life balance and values that everyone is a hands-on contributor and feels comfortable sharing ideas and opinions. Our day-to-day operations are designed to encourage interactions between Columbia employees within and across teams, and to spark conversation and creativity.