Sr. Cost Estimator - Transportation

About the Role

As a Senior Cost Estimator within LJA's Transportation practice, you will be responsible for developing, managing, and reviewing construction cost estimates ranging from early planning-level concepts through final design, procurement, and construction. You will collaborate with engineers, project managers, and clients to identify project costs, evaluate alternatives, assess risks, and support funding and delivery strategies.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed construction cost estimates for transportation infrastructure projects.
• Develop quantity takeoffs, unit-price analyses, escalation forecasts, and engineer opinions of probable construction cost.
• Evaluate project plans and specifications to identify cost drivers and risks.
• Analyze historical bid data, market conditions, labor trends, and material pricing.
• Prepare Basis of Estimate reports and supporting documentation.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary project teams.
• Support project pursuits and client presentations.
• Mentor junior estimators.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Construction Management, Engineering Technology, or related field.
• 10+ years of transportation estimating experience.
• Strong understanding of transportation construction means and methods.
• Proficiency with industry estimating software and advanced Excel skills.
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Qualifications

• PE, CCP, CEP, or similar certification (ideal).
• Experience with TxDOT, toll authorities, MPOs, and/or municipalities (ideal).
• Alternative Delivery experience including Design-Build and P3 (ideal).
• Cost Schedule Risk Assessment workshop experience (ideal).
• Risk-based estimating and lifecycle cost analysis experience (ideal).

About LJA

LJA is an employee-owned company offering an exciting opportunity to reach your full career potential. Our structure amplifies your capabilities while providing the benefits of being an employee-owner. We foster a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous learning, with a focus on flexibility, personal growth, and having fun while creating impact.

Benefits

• Generous Time Off: PTO, paid holidays, and full office closure between Christmas and New Year’s.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple plan options for health, dental, and pets, along with mental health support.
• Family Support: Paid maternity and parental leave.
• Education Support: Tuition reimbursement and in-house courses.
• Referral Bonuses: Rewards for helping us grow.
• Community Impact: Company-sponsored volunteer days and philanthropic initiatives.
• Professional Development: Memberships to industry organizations.
• Career Growth: Internal mobility opportunities.
• Fun Culture: Social events, employee sports teams, and more.

LJA is 100% employee-owned, driving results and supporting long-term success. With almost 100 locations and 3,000+ employee-owners, we’re building something big and want you to be part of it.