Commercial Estimator & Project Manager

Position Summary

The Traveling Commercial Estimator / Project Manager is entrusted with full lifecycle oversight of large-scale commercial restoration and reconstruction projects, exercising independent judgement from initial loss assessment through final completion. This role is dedicated exclusively to commercial, industrial, and multi-family assets, including large-loss and catastrophe events, where situational discretion and adaptability are crucial.

This individual will lead estimating, project execution, and operational coordination across multiple markets, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and in alignment with company and carrier expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

Commercial Estimating & Scoping

• Conduct on-site inspections of commercial and industrial losses (water, fire, storm, environmental, large loss), independently assessing damage and defining scope in complex, evolving conditions.
• Develop detailed Xactimate estimates and/or custom large-loss estimates (T&M, unit cost, or hybrid models), selecting appropriate methods to ensure accuracy and defensibility.
• Define scopes of work for complex commercial projects (office, retail, healthcare, industrial, hospitality, multi-family), making informed decisions on repair strategies, sequencing, and resources.
• Evaluate building systems including MEP components, structural elements, and applicable codes to guide decisions and ensure compliance.
• Collaborate with adjusters, consultants, and third-party engineers to validate scope and resolve discrepancies using sound judgement.
• Identify and negotiate supplements and change orders, addressing scope gaps and evolving conditions with clear justification.
• Reinforce a strong safety culture by setting expectations, modeling accountability, and proactively addressing risks.

Project Management (Commercial Focus):

• Manage multiple large-scale commercial projects across diverse locations, prioritizing work and driving performance through independent decision-making. 
• Develop and manage critical schedules to maintain timelines and changing conditions. 
• Coordinate subcontractors, vendors, and internal teams across complex job sites, resolving issues and ensuring alignment.
• Oversee budgets, cost tracking, and margin, making informed decisions to control costs.
• Direct procurement, logistics, and resource allocation for large-loss projects.
• Perform site visits to monitor QA/QC and project progress, identifying issues proactively.
• Responsible for final project approvals and projects.

Travel & CAT Deployment:

• Travel nationwide to lead large-loss commercial projects and catastrophe response efforts.
• Deploy rapidly to CAT events (hurricanes, freezes, floods, wildfires, etc.), assess conditions and establish project direction with minimal oversight.
• Integrate into branch operations, adapt quickly to new markets, and lead projects independently.
• Support backlog relief and high-priority commercial accounts by effectively prioritizing resources.

Compliance, Risk & Safety:

• Ensure compliance with building codes, ADA requirements, and local jurisdictional regulations.
• Enforce OSHA standards and company safety standards across all job sites.
• Manage risk in active commercial environments (occupied buildings, business continuity) while supporting business continuity.
• Maintain clear, defensible documentation for audits, insurance compliance, and litigation.

Competencies

• Leadership: Provides decisive leadership in complex, high-value project environments
• Financial Acumen: Leverages advanced financial skills in job costing, forecasting, and margin control.
• Multi-Tasking: Successfully manages multiple large-scale projects concurrently.
• Communication: Facilitates clear, effective communication across field teams and executive leadership.
• Adaptability: Thrives in fast-paced, travel-intensive roles with flexibility and resilience.
• Problem Solving: Applies strategic thinking and sound judgment to resolve complex challenges.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• EAP
• STD/LTD
• Basic Life and AD&D
• Voluntary Life
• Supplemental: Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity
• Cell Phone Stipend
• 401(k)
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays

Watterson is an Equal Employment Opportunity and E-Verify employer.

Disclaimer: This job description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this role. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or competencies. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description based on business need.

Required Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in commercial restoration and/or construction project management.
• Proven experience managing large-loss commercial projects ($250K – multi-million).
• Advanced proficiency in Xactimate (large loss preferred).
• Strong understanding of commercial building systems and construction methods
• Experience working with insurance carriers, adjusters, and TPAs
• Willingness and ability to travel 50–75%+
• Valid driver’s license in good standing without restrictions
• High school diploma or GED equivalent required.

Preferred Requirements:

• IICRC certifications (WRT, ASD, FSRT).
• Experience with T&M billing, cost-plus, and large-loss estimating methodologies.
• Background in general contracting or commercial construction.
• Familiarity with project management platforms (Dash, PSA, Procore, or similar).
• Experience working with consultants, engineers, and forensic experts.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in active commercial job sites, including hazardous or partially damaged structures
• Capable of climbing ladders, inspecting roofs, and navigating large facilities
• Willingness to work extended hours during CAT events or critical project phases