Estimator & Purchasing Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Surprise, AZ | In-Office | Fulltime

At TRU Builders, we don't just build homes. We build trust.

Our reputation has been earned through exceptional craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to doing things the right way. From custom homes to large-scale residential additions and remodels, we create spaces that reflect quality, integrity, and lasting value. Our purpose is to build quality projects in Arizona while enhancing our communities with vision, integrity, and the talents we've been given.

We're looking for an experienced Estimator & Purchasing Specialist who can take ownership of our preconstruction estimating process and procurement operations. This is a critical leadership role responsible for ensuring every project begins with accurate budgets, reliable trade pricing, and a well-planned procurement strategy that sets our production team up for success.

If you're someone who thrives on accuracy, enjoys collaborating with trade partners, and takes pride in building organized systems that keep projects on time and on budget, we'd love to meet you.

Estimating & Preconstruction

• Prepare accurate construction estimates from complete residential plan sets, including architectural, structural, MEP, and detail drawings.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop comprehensive project budgets.
• Solicit and compare bids from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Build and maintain project budgets within Buildertrend before proposals are presented.
• Continuously improve estimating templates, assemblies, and cost databases.

Procurement & Purchasing

• Manage procurement for all materials and subcontractors after project award.
• Issue purchase orders and secure long-lead materials early to avoid schedule delays.
• Coordinate deliveries with the production team and superintendents.
• Verify materials meet project specifications and budget requirements.
• Track procurement activities and maintain organized documentation within Buildertrend.

Vendor & Trade Partner Management

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with preferred vendors and trade partners.
• Obtain competitive pricing and negotiate when appropriate.
• Evaluate vendor performance based on quality, pricing, and reliability.
• Expand and strengthen TRU Builders' preferred vendor network.

Financial & Project Support

• Review procurement costs against approved estimates.
• Identify potential budget variances before purchases are made.
• Review invoices for pricing accuracy.
• Support value engineering opportunities alongside operations.
• Participate in preconstruction meetings and project handoffs to ensure a seamless transition into construction.

Required Experience

• 5+ years of estimating experience in residential construction.
• Strong experience estimating custom homes, large residential remodels, and additions.
• Proven procurement and purchasing experience for residential construction projects.
• Ability to read and interpret complete construction plan sets.
• Experience developing detailed budgets, quantity takeoffs, and scopes of work.
• Strong understanding of residential building methods, materials, and sequencing.
• Experience coordinating with subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using Buildertrend for estimating, budgeting, purchasing, and project communication.
• Commercial estimating experience is a plus, particularly in tenant improvements or light commercial projects.
• Knowledge of value engineering and cost control strategies.

• Highly organized and exceptionally detail-oriented.
• Comfortable taking ownership rather than simply supporting the process.
• Proactive in identifying risks before they become problems.
• A strong communicator who builds lasting relationships with vendors and trade partners.
• Able to balance multiple projects and deadlines without sacrificing accuracy.
• Committed to continuous improvement and process optimization.

At TRU Builders, you'll play a key role in shaping every project before construction begins. Your work will directly impact project success, profitability, and the experience of both our clients and field teams.

You'll join a company that values:

• Integrity in every decision.
• Quality over shortcuts.
• Strong relationships with employees, clients, and trade partners.
• Continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Teamwork is built on trust and accountability.

How to Apply

If you're an experienced residential construction estimator who enjoys owning both the estimating and procurement processes, we'd love to hear from you.

Please submit the following:

• Your resume.
• A brief cover letter highlighting your experience with custom homes, residential remodels, and additions.
• (Optional) Examples of projects you've estimated or managed through preconstruction, including the software you've used (such as Buildertrend).

We're looking for someone who values accuracy, takes ownership, and is ready to make an immediate impact on our team.

Apply today and help us build exceptional projects with precision from the very beginning.