Estimator Onboarding Checklist

Estimator Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Estimator starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Construction onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Estimator, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Estimator onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Estimator Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company culture and values: The task involves providing the new estimator with an overview of the company’s culture, values, and mission. This helps them understand the company’s expectations, work environment, and overall goals. Typically, this task is performed by the HR department or a designated company representative.

2. Familiarization with company policies and procedures: The new estimator needs to be acquainted with the company’s policies and procedures, including those related to safety, quality control, project management, and communication. This task is usually performed by the HR department or a designated supervisor.

3. Introduction to the estimating department: The new estimator should be introduced to their colleagues in the estimating department. This includes meeting team members, understanding their roles and responsibilities, and establishing initial working relationships. The task is typically performed by the department manager or a senior estimator.

4. Review of past projects and bid history: The new estimator should be provided with an overview of the company’s past projects and bid history. This includes studying completed projects, analyzing successful bids, and understanding the company’s approach to estimating. The task is usually performed by a senior estimator or the department manager.

5. Training on estimating software and tools: As an estimator, the new employee needs to be trained on the specific software and tools used for estimating in the construction industry. This includes learning how to use estimating software, takeoffs, and other relevant tools. The training is typically conducted by a senior estimator or a designated software trainer.

6. Understanding project documentation and specifications: The new estimator should be familiarized with the various types of project documentation and specifications commonly used in the construction industry. This includes reviewing architectural drawings, engineering plans, specifications, and contract documents. The task is usually performed by a senior estimator or the department manager.

7. Shadowing experienced estimators: To gain practical experience and learn the company’s estimating processes, the new estimator should shadow experienced estimators on ongoing projects. This involves observing and assisting in the estimation process, attending meetings, and learning from their expertise. The task is typically coordinated by the department manager or a senior estimator.

8. Introduction to subcontractors and suppliers: The new estimator should be introduced to the company’s network of subcontractors and suppliers. This includes understanding their capabilities, establishing relationships, and learning how to request quotes and negotiate pricing. The task is usually performed by a senior estimator or the department manager.

9. Review of cost databases and historical data: The new estimator should be provided with access to the company’s cost databases and historical data. This includes reviewing past project costs, analyzing trends, and understanding how to utilize this information in estimating future projects. The task is typically performed by a senior estimator or the department manager.

10. Introduction to project management and coordination: The new estimator should be introduced to the project management and coordination processes within the company. This includes understanding how estimators collaborate with project managers, superintendents, and other stakeholders throughout the construction process. The task is typically performed by the department manager or a designated project manager.

11. Review of safety protocols and regulations: The new estimator should receive training on the company’s safety protocols and regulations. This includes understanding safety procedures, attending safety meetings, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. The task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated safety officer.

12. Introduction to client relationship management: The new estimator should be introduced to the company’s client relationship management processes. This includes understanding how to communicate with clients, manage expectations, and build strong relationships. The task is typically performed by a senior estimator or the department manager.

13. Review of estimating templates and guidelines: The new estimator should be provided with access to the company’s estimating templates and guidelines. This includes understanding how to use standardized templates, follow estimating guidelines, and ensure consistency in estimating practices. The task is typically performed by a senior estimator or the department manager.

14. Introduction to industry regulations and compliance: The new estimator should receive training on industry regulations and compliance requirements relevant to the construction industry. This includes understanding building codes, permits, environmental regulations, and other legal obligations. The task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated compliance officer.

15. Performance evaluation and goal setting: The new estimator should undergo a performance evaluation and goal-setting session to establish expectations and objectives for their role. This includes discussing performance metrics, career development opportunities, and setting targets for professional growth. The task is typically performed by the department manager or a designated supervisor

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Estimator checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Estimator up to speed and working well in your Construction team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.