Estimator (Live Oak Power) (Riverside, CA)

Position Summary

As an Estimator at Live Oak Power, you will play a key role in securing and delivering successful underground utility, electrical utility infrastructure, and TUG construction projects by preparing accurate, timely, and competitive estimates and bid proposals. Working closely with senior estimators, the President, and Project Teams, you will help develop winning bids and ensure a seamless transition to Project Management once projects are awarded. You will also support project success throughout construction by assisting with change orders, providing ongoing estimating expertise, and contributing to effective account management and overall project profitability.

Position Description

• Estimating and Preconstruction Support senior estimators in preparing accurate, timely, and comprehensive bids for underground utility, electrical utility infrastructure, and TUG construction projects.
  • Review and evaluate bid documents, including plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and related materials, to determine scope of work, identify self-perform and subcontracted work, and assess changes in scope, cost, and risk throughout the bid process.
  • Coverge and complete quantity take-offs for project pursuits, identifying key considerations such as access, phasing, production constraints, and overall scope magnitude.
  • Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits to evaluate project conditions, constraints, and potential impacts to the estimate and overall project approach.
  • Identify, contact, and coordinate with subcontractors, suppliers, and service providers to request quotes, clarify scope, ensure adequate coverage, and reduce potential scope gaps.
  • Use historical cost and production data to develop accurate estimates, analyze pursuit-related risks, and support the preparation of final estimate, schedule, and bid summary documents prior to submission.
• Operational Collaboration
  • Partner with the President and Project Teams to prepare bids and support a seamless transition to Project Management.
  • Support project turnover meetings and preconstruction planning after project award.
  • Assist with change order pricing, cost analysis, and estimate interpretation during construction.
  • Contribute to continuous improvements in estimating processes, systems, and historical cost tracking.
• Client Relations & Business Support
  • Participate in client meetings, pre-bid conferences, site walkthroughs, and proposal presentations.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, vendors, and industry partners.
  • Foster a collaborative, team-oriented culture built on trust and accountability.
  • Represent Live Oak Power with professionalism and a commitment to exceptional customer service.

Work Environment

This role requires the ability to sit, stand, walk, climb, bend, and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. The employee must be able to safely navigate active construction sites.

Competitive Benefits & Total Rewards

• Salary Range: $105,000 to $130,000 annually.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• 401(k) + Profit Sharing
• Wellness Incentives
• Parental & Family Leave
• Training & Career Growth
• Internal candidates considered first for the first five (5) calendar days after the role is posted.

Required Education, Experience, And Technical Knowledge

• 3–5+ years of experience in civil construction preferred; underground utility, electrical utility infrastructure, or heavy civil experience is a plus.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record required.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or equivalent experience preferred.
• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., HCSS HeavyBid, HeavyJob) and Microsoft Office preferred.
• Knowledge of utility construction methods, production rates, and industry standards preferred.