Kimberly Olivas
Federal Way,Washington
Summary
Analytical professional in cost estimation, known for high productivity and efficiency in task completion. Possess specialized skills in project budgeting, risk assessment, and financial modeling. Excel at critical thinking, negotiation, and communication, ensuring successful outcomes in complex projects.
Attentive professional offering several years of experience in working with clients and teammates to create and manage project estimates. Talented in understanding client requirements and expectations to prepare bid proposals accordingly. Focused on maintaining project costs by comparing estimates with project actuals and discussing with decision-makers to devise ways to save money.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Estimator
Fireshield Inc.
Federal Way, WA
08.2023 - 05.2024
- I estimate Fire Sprinkler Systems for new and existing construction up to and including high rises and down to Tenant Improvements and service work
- I use Microsoft products including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- We use Outlook, Blue Beam and Firemate 451
- I am experienced in Contract Sales and estimating for retrofits, government work, military base work, big box stores, warehouses, offices, and mercantile spaces.
- Evaluates new software programs designed for use in construction estimating processes.
- Creates detailed reports outlining estimate assumptions used during bidding process.
- Identifies potential risks associated with proposed projects and recommends strategies for mitigating those risks.
- Attends pre-bid meetings with prospective clients as needed.
- Reviews and analyses plans, specifications, proposals, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
- Develops quantity takeoffs from blueprints and drawings using computer-aided design systems or manual calculations.
- Compiles data from suppliers to update material pricing databases as needed.
- Collaborates with engineers, architects, owners, contractors and subcontractors on estimates.
- Prepares conceptual estimates based upon limited information available at the early stages of a project.
- Consistently followed up with customers to determine satisfaction levels.
- Obtained bids from vendors and subcontractors to make cost-effective selections.
- Checked construction plans against actual field conditions to prepare estimates.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, pricing fluctuations, and new materials and technologies.
- Presented prepared estimates by assembling and displaying numerical and descriptive information.
- Analyzed blueprints and other documents to prepare time, cost and labor estimates.
- Produced preliminary estimates based on schematic and design development level documents.
Customer Service Representative III
Ferguson Fire and Fabrication
03.2022 - 02.2023
- Skills: Trilogy, MS Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams, and computer telephones.
- Implemented innovative methods for streamlining the customer service process.
- Tracked orders from start to finish to ensure timely delivery of goods or services.
- Provided accurate information about products and services to customers.
- Identified areas of improvement in customer service processes and suggested changes accordingly.
- Answered customer inquiries via phone, email, and chat.
- Assisted customers with product selection, ordering, billing, returns, exchanges and technical support.
- Asked probing questions to determine service needs and accurately input information into electronic systems.
- Provided exceptional customer service to ensure customer satisfaction.
Designer
COSCO Fire Protection
08.2021 - 01.2022
- I took a position in design to learn how to use AutoSprink and Revit/BIM.
- Inspected construction sites to monitor progress and adherence to design specifications.
- Created detailed architectural drawings for residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings.
Estimator
Red Hawk Fire Protection, LLC
03.2020 - 11.2020
- I estimated small Special Projects (Day-works and tenant improvements for the company)
- Skills: Bluebeam, FireMate, HASS, EXCEL, Word, Outlook, Reading Blueprints and Specifications.
- Identifies potential risks associated with proposed projects and recommends strategies for mitigating those risks.
- Creates detailed reports outlining estimate assumptions used during bidding process.
- Attends pre-bid meetings with prospective clients as needed.
- Conducts site visits when necessary to gain better understanding of scope of work prior to submitting an estimate.
- Reviews and analyses plans, specifications, proposals, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
- Develops quantity takeoffs from blueprints and drawings using computer-aided design systems or manual calculations.
- Compiles data from suppliers to update material pricing databases as needed.
- Prepares conceptual estimates based upon limited information available at the early stages of a project.
- Consistently followed up with customers to determine satisfaction levels.
- Negotiated pricing with suppliers and subcontractors to secure advantageous terms.
Estimator
McKinstry, LLC
Seattle, Washington
05.2018 - 03.2020
- My primary function was to estimate and sell new commercial construction projects, including high-rises in downtown Seattle
- Skills: BlueBeam, HASS, Excel, Word, Outlook, Reading Blueprints, and specifications.
- Creates detailed reports outlining estimate assumptions used during bidding process.
- Attends pre-bid meetings with prospective clients as needed.
- Conducts site visits when necessary to gain better understanding of scope of work prior to submitting an estimate.
- Reviews and analyses plans, specifications, proposals, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
- Develops quantity takeoffs from blueprints and drawings using computer-aided design systems or manual calculations.
- Prepares conceptual estimates based upon limited information available at the early stages of a project.
- Obtained bids from vendors and subcontractors to make cost-effective selections.
- Negotiated pricing with suppliers and subcontractors to secure advantageous terms.
- Ensured compliance with all relevant regulations and standards in the preparation of estimates.
- Analyzed blueprints and other documents to prepare time, cost and labor estimates.
- Produced preliminary estimates based on schematic and design development level documents.
- Consulted with clients, vendors or architects to make estimates and resolve conflicts.
Consultant/Estimator
Consulting (Split Fire Protection and Fire Tech)
NM
02.2017 - 03.2018
- I helped these two new companies estimate fire sprinkler work, to help grow their business
- Skills: Bluebeam, FireMate, HASS, EXCEL, Word, Outlook, Reading Blueprints, and specifications.
Sprinkler Service Sales Representative
SimplexGrinnell
Albuquerque, N.M.
09.2015 - 02.2017
- My primary function was to estimate and sell small service work
- Projects, retrofits, and small installation contracts
- Skills: Bluebeam, HASS, EXCEL, Word, Outlook, Reading Blueprints and Specifications.
Fine Jewelry Sales Associate
Macy’s Department Store
Albuquerque, NM
10.2011 - 01.2014
- Participated in promotional events such as trunk shows or special discounts for holidays.
- Provided product knowledge about the available fine jewelry items.
- Resolved customer complaints in an efficient and courteous manner.
- Supported team members during peak business hours.
- Assisted customers in selecting jewelry pieces according to their preferences and needs.
- Advised customers on proper care of fine jewelry pieces.
- Conducted inventory checks to ensure adequate stock levels were maintained.
- Greeted customers and provided exceptional customer service.
- Performed daily opening and closing duties such as setting up registers, restocking shelves, and counting cash drawers.
- Cross-sold additional items that complemented featured products being purchased by customers.
- Processed sales transactions using point-of-sale systems.
- Processed special orders for out-of-stock items as requested by customers.
- Maintained accurate records of all sales transactions.
- Organized merchandise displays in a visually appealing manner.
- Ensured store security by monitoring suspicious activities and individuals.
Project Manager Assistant, IBL Project
Summit Construction
Albuquerque, NM
11.2008 - 07.2009
- Ensured compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures throughout the life cycle of each project.
General Manager
Safeguard LLC
Rio Rancho, NM
03.2008 - 07.2008
- I was the General Manager
- I oversaw day to day operations, supervised employees, estimated and bid on projects and completed billing and costing, and billings.
- Maintained relationships with vendors to obtain the best pricing on supplies and materials.
- Managed all aspects of daily business operations including budgeting, staffing, scheduling, inventory control, customer service and sales.
- Implemented employee recognition programs to motivate staff members towards achieving organizational goals.
- Resolved customer complaints quickly while maintaining high quality standards of service delivery.
- Analyzed existing processes for effectiveness and developed new systems as needed to enhance overall productivity levels.
- Performed routine audits of internal controls in order to maintain accuracy of financial records.
- Directed safety operations and maintained clean work environment to adhere to FDA and OSHA requirements.
- Supervised employees through planning, assignments, and direction.
Sales/Design Department Manager
SimplexGrinnell
Albuquerque, N.M.
11.1998 - 02.2008
- My primary functions started as design department manager, overseeing four designers and an average of 90-100 projects in various states of completion and purchasing to estimating and selling fire sprinkler systems in new and existing building retrofits
- Monthly billing and costing were also part of my responsibility
- I am excellent at reading blueprints
- We used SprinkCad, HydraCad, HASS and hand drawings to complete our work.
- Managed vendor relationships by negotiating contracts and ensuring timely delivery of goods and services.
- Provided leadership during times of organizational change or crisis situations.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
- Assessed team member's skillsets and assigned tasks accordingly for optimal efficiency.
- Created monthly reports for senior management summarizing operational performance metrics.
- Resolved conflicts between employees by providing guidance on company policies and procedures.
- Conducted performance reviews for team members.
- Monitored budgets and expenditures to ensure cost-effectiveness while maintaining quality standards.
- Ensured compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, industry standards.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Coached, mentored and trained team members in order to improve their job performance.
- Conducted regular meetings with staff to discuss progress and identify areas of improvement.
- Enforced customer service standards and resolved customer problems to uphold quality service.
- Implemented process improvements, resultingin an increase in operational efficiency.
- Led a team of XX employees, ensuring high productivity and excellent customer service.
- Assigned tasks to associates to fit skill levels and maximize team performance.
- Coordinated cross-departmental projects to ensure timely and successful completion.
- Oversaw daily operations, maintaining efficiency and quality standards.
Fire Sprinkler System Designer
Southwest Fire Protection, Inc.
Albuquerque, N.M.
10.1993 - 10.1998
- I designed fire sprinkler systems, worked with AHJ’s, stock listed, ordered, and tracked the material to manufacture the systems in our shop
- We used Hydracad, HASS and THE Sprinkler program.
Design/Drafting/Sales
Sprinkler Irrigation Supply Co., Inc.
Albuquerque, N.M.
05.1992 - 10.1993
- I designed and drew out lawn sprinkler systems for customers that brought in a layout of their yard.
- I stocklisted my designs and priced it out for my customers.
- I pulled all the material out of stock and sold it to the customers
- I advised customers on local requirements and how-to advice for installation.
Strategic Aircraft Maintenance Specialist (Crew Chief)
United States Air Force
Dyess AFB, Texas
10.1988 - 01.1992
- Inspected aircraft for corrosion damage or signs of wear and tear.
- Maintained inventory of spare parts used for routine maintenance tasks.
- Performed inspections on aircraft components to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
- Maintained records of all completed maintenance activities in accordance with regulatory requirements.
- Researched, read and interpreted technical manuals and guidelines before inspections, installations and repairs.
- Managed repair logs, documenting preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance activities.
- Removed aircraft parts such as engines, pumps and landing gear.
- Completed standard inspections to assess wear and damage to vehicles.
Education
Associate of Occupational Science in Radiography - Diagnostic Radiographic Technologist
PIMA Medical Institute
Albuquerque, N.M.Associate of Science - Architectural Drafting and Design Technologies
Albuquerque Technical-Vocational Institute
Albuquerque, N.M.University Studies
University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NMHigh School Diploma -
Los Alamos High School
Los Alamos, N.M.Skills
- Customer Service
- Supervision
- Servant Leader
- Estimating Fire Protection Systems
- Negotiation and Creating Win-Win Solutions
- MS Office Suite
- AutoCad, HydraCad, SprinkCad, AutoSprink
- Outlook
- Teams
- Hydraulics programs- HASS, and THE Sprinkler Program
Accomplishments
- NICET II-Automatic Sprinkler Layout
- SimplexGrinnell Silver Level Presidents Sales Award-2003
- SimplexGrinnell Gold Level Presidents Sales Award-2004
- SimplexGrinnell President’s Award 2004, third in the Country for Sprinkler Contract Sales- $980,000.00 in executed margin that year.
- Upper management included me as part of the Sprinkler Business Advisory Committee at SimplexGrinnell 2004-2008
- Three FOD awards in the Air Force and as an Airman of the Quarter 1988-1992
- Honorably discharged from the USAF in 1992
- Who’s Who Among American High School Students
- Currently studying for: NICET III-Automatic Sprinkler Layout and NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS)
Timeline
Estimator
Fireshield Inc.
08.2023 - 05.2024
Customer Service Representative III
Ferguson Fire and Fabrication
03.2022 - 02.2023
Designer
COSCO Fire Protection
08.2021 - 01.2022
Estimator
Red Hawk Fire Protection, LLC
03.2020 - 11.2020
Estimator
McKinstry, LLC
05.2018 - 03.2020
Consultant/Estimator
Consulting (Split Fire Protection and Fire Tech)
02.2017 - 03.2018
Sprinkler Service Sales Representative
SimplexGrinnell
09.2015 - 02.2017
Fine Jewelry Sales Associate
Macy’s Department Store
10.2011 - 01.2014
Project Manager Assistant, IBL Project
Summit Construction
11.2008 - 07.2009
General Manager
Safeguard LLC
03.2008 - 07.2008
Sales/Design Department Manager
SimplexGrinnell
11.1998 - 02.2008
Fire Sprinkler System Designer
Southwest Fire Protection, Inc.
10.1993 - 10.1998
Design/Drafting/Sales
Sprinkler Irrigation Supply Co., Inc.
05.1992 - 10.1993
Strategic Aircraft Maintenance Specialist (Crew Chief)
United States Air Force
10.1988 - 01.1992
Associate of Occupational Science in Radiography - Diagnostic Radiographic Technologist
PIMA Medical Institute
Associate of Science - Architectural Drafting and Design Technologies
Albuquerque Technical-Vocational Institute
University Studies
University of New Mexico
High School Diploma -
Los Alamos High School
Similar Profiles
Seth WatsonSeth Watson
Plumber at Fireshield ServicesPlumber at Fireshield Services
John RaymerJohn Raymer
Store Receiver at TargetStore Receiver at Target
Evalisi TaufatoutaiEvalisi Taufatoutai
Activity Assistant Coordinator at Wesley Des MoinesActivity Assistant Coordinator at Wesley Des Moines