Construction Estimating Internship- Summer 2026

Nichols Contracting, Inc. (NCI) is a family-owned and operated Construction and Contracting business headquartered in Columbia, MD with offices in Richmond, VA, Royal Palm Beach, and Orlando, FL with a team of 170 employees. NCI is a full-service general contractor focused on providing premier services in all aspects of the construction process, from concept to completion. We manage a broad range of commercial construction projects, including new construction, tenant fit outs, and renovations. NCI services a diverse group of markets including federal, state, and local governments, as well as a variety of corporate and special industry organizations that require complex life safety and critical infrastructure needs.

Nichols Contracting is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Estimating Intern to join the Preconstruction Department as a summer intern for 2026. As a crucial member of the department, the Estimating Intern will play a key role in supporting the estimating and preconstruction processes for construction projects. The successful candidate will work closely with administrative staff, estimators, project managers, and various stakeholders to ensure accurate and competitive project bids and buyouts.

Duties to include but not limited to:

Essential Functions:

- Quantitative Analysis: Conduct quantity take-offs and material quantity estimates based on project drawings and specifications.

- Cost Estimation: Assist in preparing detailed cost estimates, including labor, materials, equipment, and overhead costs.

- Bid Preparation: Collaborate with estimators to compile comprehensive bid proposals that align with project requirements and client expectations.

- Vendor and Subcontractor Coordination: Communicate with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain competitive quotes and ensure accurate pricing for project components.

- Data Analysis: Analyze historical cost data and industry trends to inform accurate cost projections and enhance the competitiveness of bids.

- Documentation: Maintain organized and up-to-date documentation of all estimating and administrative activities for the department, ensuring accessibility for project reference and audits.

- Team Collaboration: Work closely with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to gather necessary information and ensure alignment between estimates and project goals.

- Continuous Learning: Stay informed about industry best practices, emerging technologies, and market trends to enhance estimating skills and contribute to the continuous improvement of the estimating process.

Desired Skills and Competencies:

- Pursuing Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture or a related field is preferred

- 3.0 Cumulative GPA

- Basic knowledge of construction principles, safety standards, and project phases

- Strong communication and organizational skills

- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

- Ability to manage time and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment

- Familiarity with construction management software

- Previous internship or jobsite experience (a plus, not required)

Salary: $20/HR- $25/HR based on experience

Employee Acknowledgement: I have read the above position description, and I understand and agree with the terms and requirements for this position. I also understand and agree that such requirements may be amended and/or adjusted at any time.

Persons with mental and physical disabilities as defined by the American’s With Disabilities Act are eligible for this position as long as they can perform the essential functions of the job after reasonable accommodations are made to their known limitations. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible for this position.

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy:

Nichols Contracting provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state of local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.