Estimator

Position Summary

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for underground utilities, pipeline, wet utilities, grading, structures, and related construction projects. This role performs quantity takeoffs, analyzes labor, equipment, material, and subcontractor costs, and prepares complete bid packages in support of business development and project execution.

Essential Job Functions

• Experienced estimator with proven ability to develop accurate, competitive bids while actively supporting business development through client relationship-building, networking, and engaging prospective clients to drive new opportunities.
• Review project plans, specifications, addenda, and bid documents to determine scope and estimating requirements.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for underground utilities, grading, structures, and civil scopes.
• Develop accurate cost estimates for labor, equipment, materials, and subcontractors using historical data and production rates.
• Solicit, review, and analyze subcontractor and vendor pricing for scope coverage and competitiveness.
• Prepare bid proposals, scope letters, clarifications, and supporting documentation.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, job walks, and coordinate RFIs with owners, engineers, and agencies.
• Identify project risks, constructability issues, and value-engineering opportunities.
• Maintain estimating databases, production histories, unit pricing, and cost libraries.
• Collaborate with Operations and Project Management to validate means and methods, manpower, and equipment assumptions.
• Support bid handoff meetings and transition awarded projects into Operations.
• Prepare quantity summaries, pricing sheets, and estimating logs for management review.
• Auxiliary bid strategy development, market analysis, and pursuit planning.
• Maintain organized estimating files and bid documentation.
• Maintain confidentiality of all bid pricing, financial data, and competitive information.

Responsibilities

May be modified based on business needs.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED required. Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Business, or related field preferred. Equivalent estimating experience may be substituted for formal education.
• Experience: 5+ years of construction estimating experience required. Experience in underground utilities, wet utilities, pipeline, grading, or civil construction strongly preferred.
• Licenses/Certifications: Valid driver’s license required.

Skills

• Strong ability to read and interpret plans, profiles, and technical specifications.
• Proficiency with estimating and takeoff software (HCSS, B2W, PlanSwift, or similar).
• Advanced Excel skills and strong mathematical aptitude.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids, deadlines, and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• High level of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of financial and competitive business information.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• This position is primarily sedentary to light work in nature. The employee is regularly required to sit for prolonged periods, use hands and fingers to operate office equipment, and occasionally stand, walk, bend, or reach.
• The employee may occasionally lift or move materials weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Work is typically performed in a professional office environment, with occasional visits to field or construction sites.
• Employees may be exposed to outdoor weather conditions, dust, and construction noise when visiting job sites.
• All work must be performed in compliance with OSHA and applicable state safety regulations, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).