Takeoff Specialist

Position Summary

The Estimating / Takeoff Specialist is responsible for performing accurate and thorough quantity takeoffs for all private civil construction projects. This role serves as a critical link between project plans and field execution by producing precise linear footage calculations for utility work and cubic yard (CY) calculations for earthwork operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Utility Takeoffs (Linear Footage)

• Perform detailed utility quantity takeoffs from civil construction drawings including storm drain, sanitary sewer, water main, dry utilities, and underground piping systems.
• Calculate accurate linear footages (LF) for all pipe runs, conduit, and linear utility installations using PlanSwift digital takeoff software.
• Quantify associated fittings, structures (manholes, inlets, vaults), and appurtenances per plan set.
• Interpret plan and profile sheets, utility drawings, and specifications to ensure complete scope capture.
• Cross-reference multiple drawing sheets to reconcile conflicts, changes, and addenda.
• Document all takeoff measurements with clear notes for estimator review and bid backup.

• Earthwork Takeoffs (Cubic Yards)

• Perform mass grading and site earthwork takeoffs producing cut/fill volumes in cubic yards (CY) using Insite Earthwork software.
• Import and process survey data, digital terrain models (DTMs), and design surfaces to calculate net earthwork volumes.
• Analyze cut/fill balances, haul routes, and disposal/import quantities to support earthwork strategy and cost modeling.
• Prepare earthwork summary reports and export data for use in bid proposals and project schedules.
• Identify potential soil conditions, shrinkage/swell factors, and other variables that affect volume calculations.
• Validate earthwork quantities by reviewing grading plans and cross-sections against software output.

• General Estimating & Coordination

• Review complete project plan sets and specifications for all assigned private projects prior to performing takeoffs.
• Maintain organized digital takeoff files within PlanSwift and Insite Earthwork for project records and future reference.
• Communicate scope clarifications and RFIs to the estimating team or project engineers as needed.
• Collaborate with estimators to ensure takeoff quantities are accurately transferred into bid proposals.
• Track plan revisions and addenda, updating takeoffs promptly to reflect changes.
• Aid in building cost databases and unit-price benchmarking tied to takeoff data.
• Support post-bid reviews and project buyout by providing takeoff backup and documentation.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience performing construction quantity takeoffs in civil, site work, or heavy construction.

• Demonstrated proficiency with PlanSwift digital takeoff software.

• Hands-on experience with Insite Earthwork software for cut/fill analysis and CY volume calculations.

• Ability to read, interpret, and extract data from civil engineering plan sets, grading plans, utility drawings, and project specifications.

• Strong understanding of civil construction methods including underground utilities, grading, paving, and site development.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).

• High attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, verifiable quantities.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

PREFERRED

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering Technology, Construction Management, or related field.

• Experience working for a civil site contractor or heavy/highway contractor in an estimating or field capacity.

• Familiarity with AutoCAD Civil 3D surface files and DTM exports used in earthwork analysis.

• Knowledge of standard earthwork factors (swell, shrink, compaction rates) and their application in volume calculations.

• Experience with private developer projects including residential, commercial, and mixed-use site development.

SOLUTIONS USED

• PlanSwift: Primary takeoff platform for all utility linear footage (LF) quantity calculations.

• Insite Earthwork: Earthwork cut/fill modeling and cubic yard (CY) volume analysis.

• Microsoft Excel: Quantity summaries, bid inputs, and data tracking.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This position is primarily office-based with occasional site visits to support project verification or field coordination.
• Must be able to work at a computer for extended periods reviewing large-format drawings and detailed plan sets.
• Ability to manage multiple takeoff assignments simultaneously and meet bid deadline schedules.
• Occasional overtime may be required during peak bid periods.