Construction Estimator

Brewster Companies, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company specializing in heavy civil and transportation construction. We are seeking hardworking, motivated individuals for a challenging and rewarding career in rebuilding and expanding infrastructure.

About the role

This position is a vital part of our management team, focusing on preconstruction and hard bid estimating. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, great personality, and a passion for contributing to a rapidly growing company.

Responsibilities

• Preconstruction & Estimating
  • Manage and update a log of potential opportunities, evaluating project scope and fit within Brewster's core competencies.
  • Review and analyze civil construction plans, specifications, addenda, and contract requirements to identify cost impacts and project risks.
  • Perform detailed takeoffs, measurements, and quantity calculations for earthwork, utilities, paving, structures, and other civil components.
  • Prepare comprehensive estimates by assembling accurate labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
  • Develop cohesive estimate structures supported by achievable preliminary work plans and production rates.
  • Utilize estimating software (HCSS HeavyBid/HeavyJob) and electronic plan takeoff tools to prepare and document bids.
• Subcontractor & Vendor Coordination
  • Communicate with and expand subcontractor and supplier databases to ensure competitive pricing and coverage.
  • Solicit, evaluate, and analyze subcontractor and vendor quotes for scope compliance and best value.
  • Negotiate terms, factoring in safety, quality, cost efficiency, and supplier diversity.
• Risk Analysis & Strategy
  • Identify project risks and work with management to determine appropriate mitigation strategies.
  • Evaluate constructability, site logistics, schedule impacts, and phasing requirements during the bid process.
  • Assist with developing contingencies and allowances to ensure accurate, defensible estimates.
• Collaboration & Project Support
  • Coordinate closely with ownership, management, and field supervisors to align estimates with field execution strategies.
  • Prepare bid summaries, clarifications, and recommendations for review by company leadership.
  • Support preliminary scheduling activities, sequencing, and manpower planning for proposals.
  • Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and client presentations as required.
• Post-Bid Responsibilities
  • Support project handoff meetings with operations, ensuring awarded projects are clearly communicated and properly set up in HeavyJob.
  • Provide ongoing estimating support during project execution for change orders, cost tracking, and value engineering.
  • Assist in maintaining historical cost data for benchmarking and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in civil/heavy construction estimating preferred.
• Strong background in reading and interpreting civil construction plans, specifications, and contract documents.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel) and estimating software (HCSS HeavyBid/HeavyJob required).
• Experience with electronic plan takeoff software.
• Knowledge of DOT (IDOT, MoDOT) and public agency bidding processes preferred.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities; able to collaborate effectively with internal teams, clients, and subcontractors.
• Strong time management and organizational skills; ability to prioritize multiple deadlines.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Skills

• Detail-Oriented: Ensures accuracy and thoroughness in all estimates and documentation.
• Strategic Thinker: Evaluates risks, opportunities, and project approaches to maximize competitiveness.
• Collaborative: Builds strong working relationships with team members, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.
• Proactive: Anticipates project challenges and proposes solutions during the preconstruction phase.
• Professional & Personable: Represents Brewster Companies' family-oriented culture with integrity and positivity.
• Results-Driven: Focused on delivering high-quality estimates that lead to successful project awards.

Benefits

• Company-paid medical insurance for full-time employees.
• Dental, vision, and life insurance available after one month.
• 401(k) with competitive company match.
• Paid holidays available upon hire.
• Paid vacation accruals upon hire.
• Strong family culture—family-owned business.
• Growth opportunities—promotions from within.