Q: What does a Landscape Construction Estimator do at McDugald Steele?

A Landscape Construction Estimator at McDugald Steele supports the planning, budgeting, and pre-construction coordination of high-end residential and commercial landscape construction projects throughout the Houston area. This role works closely with landscape architects, project managers, vendors, subcontractors, and field teams to help ensure projects are accurately estimated and properly coordinated before construction begins.

The position involves preparing detailed cost estimates, reviewing landscape construction plans and specifications, coordinating vendor and subcontractor pricing, and assisting with project budgeting and proposal development. Estimators are involved in projects that include landscape construction, hardscape, irrigation systems, drainage infrastructure, landscape lighting, planting, pools, fountains, and site development.

Q: What Makes This Landscape Construction Estimator Position Unique?

Unlike many traditional estimating positions, this role is not limited to sitting behind a desk all day. The Landscape Construction Estimator is involved in both office and field operations, offering direct exposure to projects, materials, vendors, subcontractors, and construction processes.

In addition to preparing estimates and reviewing construction documents, this position includes site visits and field verifications, meetings with subcontractors and vendors, and participation in material selection and specification. The role works closely with project landscape architects, project managers, and construction supervisor teams throughout the pre-construction and construction process.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys both technical estimating work and involvement in the field.

Q: What types of landscape projects will this position work on?

This position supports a wide variety of high-end residential and commercial landscape construction projects ranging from luxury residential estates to detailed outdoor environments requiring extensive coordination between design and construction teams.

Projects often include landscape architecture installations, hardscape construction, drainage and irrigation systems, custom pools and fountains, planting plans, landscape lighting systems, and other site development components commonly associated with complex design-build landscape projects in Houston.

Q: What are the primary responsibilities of the Landscape Construction Estimator?

The Landscape Construction Estimator is responsible for preparing and organizing detailed project estimates for landscape construction projects. Responsibilities include reading and interpreting landscape construction drawings and specifications, performing quantity takeoffs, coordinating pricing with vendors and subcontractors, and supporting budgeting and proposal preparation efforts.

This role also involves maintaining estimating spreadsheets and project documentation, tracking material pricing, assisting with project coordination, and collaborating with landscape architects and construction teams throughout the pre-construction and construction process.

Q: What qualifications are preferred for this position?

McDugald Steele is seeking candidates with experience in construction estimating, landscape construction, or related construction fields, particularly within high-end residential or commercial project environments.

Qualified candidates should possess strong computer proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Office, Smartsheet, Adobe, estimating software, and digital project management platforms. Candidates should also be able to read and interpret landscape construction documents and specifications while maintaining strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.

Experience with landscape materials, irrigation systems, drainage systems, landscape lighting, hardscape construction, subcontractor coordination, and vendor procurement is highly valued for this position.

Q: What makes this Landscape Construction Estimator position unique?

This opportunity allows professionals to work on some of Houston’s most distinguished residential estates and commercial landscape projects while collaborating with experienced landscape architects, construction professionals, and luxury design industry partners.

The role provides direct involvement throughout the project lifecycle, from pre-construction planning and estimating through construction completion. Employees are part of a collaborative and design-driven company culture focused on craftsmanship, professionalism, technical excellence, and long-term career growth.

McDugald Steele also values team culture and employee connection through company gatherings and traditions held throughout the year, including appreciation events, holiday celebrations, and team-focused activities.

Q: What benefits does McDugald Steele offer?

McDugald Steele offers a competitive compensation and benefits package for full-time employees. Benefits include competitive salary opportunities, a 401(k) retirement program, medical and dental coverage with employer contribution and HSA program options, life and disability insurance programs, and a $15,000 employer-sponsored life insurance policy.

Additional benefits include a company-issued cell phone, paid time off, paid holidays, continuing education support, professional development and licensure reimbursement, complimentary membership opportunities in select professional organizations, supplier and industry partner discounts, vehicle mileage reimbursement, and reimbursement for approved company expenses.

Q: Why work at McDugald Steele?

McDugald Steele is a Houston-based landscape architecture and construction firm specializing in high-end residential and commercial outdoor environments. The firm integrates landscape architecture, construction, irrigation, lighting, and long-term landscape stewardship into a collaborative design-build approach focused on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and technical excellence.