Job Description: Large Loss Estimator Full-Time
Location:
Grand Rapids, MIPosition Overview Our Client is seeking an experienced Large Loss Estimator to join its growing restoration team. This role is responsible for estimating and managing high-value commercial, industrial, institutional, and complex residential restoration projects resulting from fire, water, storm, environmental, and catastrophic losses. The ideal candidate has extensive experience with large-loss restoration, advanced Xactimate skills, and the ability to collaborate with insurance carriers, consultants, engineers, and clients throughout the entire project lifecycle. The Large Loss Estimator will develop comprehensive estimates, participate in project scoping meetings, negotiate with insurance carriers, manage budgets, and support operations teams to ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and profitably.
Key Responsibilities:
Prepare detailed, accurate, and timely estimates for large commercial, industrial, municipal, healthcare, educational, and high-end residential restoration projects.
Develop comprehensive scopes of work using Xactimate, Xactimate Sketch, and supporting estimating software.
Conduct on-site inspections to assess fire, water, storm, mold, environmental, and catastrophic damage.
Create complex floor plans, sketches, and supporting documentation.
Meet with property owners, insurance adjusters, consultants, engineers, and third-party administrators (TPAs) to review project scope and negotiate settlements.
Manage multiple high-value projects simultaneously while maintaining schedule, budget, and quality expectations.
Prepare revised estimates, supplements, change orders, and supporting documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
Review subcontractor proposals, vendor pricing, labor costs, and material pricing to ensure estimate accuracy.
Work closely with Project Managers and Operations teams to transition projects from estimating through completion.
Maintain accurate job budgets and identify cost overruns before they impact project profitability.
Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal building codes and industry standards.
Identify potential environmental hazards including asbestos, lead, mold, and other hazardous materials.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with insurance professionals, adjusters, consultants, brokers, property managers, and commercial clients.
Assist in emergency response efforts for catastrophic events when required.
Maintain complete documentation within company systems and ensure estimates meet company standards.
Participate in ongoing professional development and industry training.
Maintain company vehicle and equipment in a safe and serviceable condition.
Complete all required documentation including accident, injury, and incident reports in a timely manner.
Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and operational guidelines.
Requirements:
Minimum 5+ years of experience estimating large commercial restoration losses.
Extensive experience with fire, water, storm, mold, and catastrophic restoration projects.
Expert-level proficiency with Xactimate and Xactimate Sketch is required.
Proven experience preparing estimates exceeding six and seven figures.
Strong understanding of commercial construction methods, restoration practices, and building systems.
Experience negotiating directly with insurance carriers, TPAs, consultants, and adjusters.
Ability to interpret construction drawings, blueprints, and specifications.
Thorough knowledge of applicable building codes and industry standards.
Strong understanding of mitigation, reconstruction, structural drying, demolition, containment, deodorization, and environmental remediation.
Ability to prioritize multiple complex projects under strict deadlines.
Excellent budgeting, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Exceptional customer service and relationship-building abilities.
Professional demeanor with the ability to represent Our Client in front of high-profile commercial clients.
Willingness to travel to project sites as needed, including catastrophe response assignments.
Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
Preferred Qualifications:
IICRC Certifications (WRT, ASD, FSRT, AMRT, OCT, CDS, or equivalent).Experience working with large-loss insurance claims and TPA programs.
Commercial estimating experience in healthcare, education, manufacturing, hospitality, municipal, or industrial facilities.
Knowledge of Matterport, DocuSketch, MICA, Dash, or similar restoration technologies.
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite and construction management software.
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field is preferred but not required.
Physical Demands Frequent lifting of up to 50 pounds.
Ability to walk active construction sites and disaster areas.
Ability to climb ladders, navigate uneven terrain, and access damaged structures.
Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel, crouch, and climb for extended periods.
Manual dexterity for keyboarding, measuring, and documentation.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Compensation & Benefits:
Our Client offers competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to:
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Performance bonus opportunities 401(k) with company match
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Life and disability insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Paid holidays
- Paid time off (PTO)
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Career advancement opportunities
Compensation:
$95,000 - $120,000 DOEDisclaimer The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or qualifications required of personnel assigned to this position.
