Job Details

Liaison Landscapes, an award-winning design-build firm specializing in high-end residential landscape, is seeking an Operations Director & Estimator to join our innovative team. This role is crucial for ensuring the efficient execution of landscape projects by providing critical office support, managing the estimating process, and facilitating operational communication between design teams, field teams, vendors, and subcontractors. If you are a proactive communicator with a strong background in construction (particularly in the landscape field), a strong work ethic, and a knack for precision, we encourage you to apply.

Role Overview: The Operations Director & Estimator is a key role responsible for a wide range of tasks, including managing the estimating workflow, coordinating with various operations teams and contractors, scheduling logistics and deliveries, and providing knowledgeable construction support to field & design staff. This role directly supports our design team and construction project managers, acting as a vital link in the project execution chain. The ideal candidate will possess strong landscape construction knowledge, excellent written and verbal communication skills, enjoys building professional connections, and has experience with landscape estimating.

Key Responsibilities:

Estimating Management:

• Oversee all estimating activities at a macro level, including scheduling and tracking deadlines.
• Manage RFP (Request for Proposal) intake, conduct thorough plan reviews, and prepare/send RFI (Request for Information) prepare accurate construction bids.
• Perform takeoffs with a high attention to detail
• Follow up with clients and contractors to secure new projects

Vendor and Subcontractor Coordination:

• Request material pricing and quotes from vendors.
• Solicit and coordinate quotes from subcontractors, including schedule on-site meetings for quoting purposes, coordinating with Field Project Managers for site analysis and project planning meetings.
• Actively engage in outreach and networking to identify and onboard new, qualified subcontractors and skilled laborers.

Operational and Design Support:

• Leverage construction knowledge to provide support to both Design and Operations staff to ensure proper planning and execution.
• Act as a key communication link, proactively reaching out to clarify information or address questions related to project operations and assist in making critical field decisions.

Systems and Process Improvement:

• Utilize estimating software and take a lead role in the estimating, project planning, and proposal process.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Minimum 10+ years of experience in the Landscape Construction Field (high-end residential experience is highly preferred) with exposure to estimating, project coordination, or operations support.
• Minimum 5+ years of Project Estimating experience (experience in the landscape field is highly preferred).
• Strong ability to read construction plans, design specifications, and aptitude of the construction process, particularly within high end residential landscape.
• Demonstrable experience in creating bid takeoffs and delivering RFI's to landscape developers, architects and general contractors.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to make decisions, negotiate terms, and build relationships with vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple tasks, priorities, and deadlines effectively.
• Experience with estimating software is highly desirable. Alternatively, a strong aptitude and willingness to learn new software and implement solutions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• A commitment to quality, efficiency, continuous improvement, and a consistently strong work ethic.

Bonus Qualifications:

• Broader Building & Construction experience beyond landscaping.
• Previous experience in Field Construction Operations Management.
• Proficiency in CAD software / Design Skills
• Familiarity with software project management tools

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary $95k - $135K
• Paid Time Off
• 401k
• Company Vehicle and Gas Card
• Opportunity to play a vital role in a growing company.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.