Chief Estimator

Job Description

Position: Chief Estimator

Location: DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia)

Reports To: Vice President of Internal Operations

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Position Summary:

The Chief Estimator is responsible for leading and managing all estimating functions for underground utility construction projects. This executive-level role oversees the development of accurate, competitive, and strategic bids while ensuring alignment with company goals, risk tolerance, and profitability targets. The Chief Estimator provides leadership to the estimating team, drives process improvements, and collaborates closely with operations, business development, and executive leadership to support sustained growth.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Department Management

• Lead, mentor, and manage the estimating team, including Senior Estimators and support staff.
• Establish departmental goals, performance standards, and accountability measures.
• Oversee workload distribution, staffing needs, and professional development of estimating personnel.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

Strategic Estimating & Bid Oversight

• Direct the preparation and review of all major estimates and bid submissions.
• Develop bid strategies to maximize competitiveness while maintaining profitability and acceptable risk levels.
• Provide final review and approval of high-value or complex bids prior to submission.
• Collaborate with executive leadership on go/no-go decisions.

Preconstruction & Risk Management

• Evaluate project risks, contractual requirements, and market conditions.
• Develop risk mitigation strategies and ensure they are incorporated into pricing and proposals.
• Lead contract reviews and provide guidance on commercial terms and conditions.

Cost Management & Data Analytics

• Oversee the development and maintenance of cost databases, historical data, and estimating standards.
• Ensure accuracy and consistency in unit pricing, production rates, and labor assumptions.
• Analyze bid outcomes, cost trends, and market conditions to improve estimating accuracy and competitiveness.

Subcontractor & Vendor Strategy

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key subcontractors and suppliers.
• Oversee subcontractor prequalification and selection processes.
• Support negotiation strategies for major subcontractor and supplier agreements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with operations, project management, and engineering teams to align estimating practices with execution strategies.
• Ensure thorough handoff of awarded projects to operations teams.
• Partner with business development to support client relationships and pursuit strategies.

Process Improvement & Technology

• Drive continuous improvement in estimating processes, tools, and systems.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies and software to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Standardize estimating procedures across the organization.

Qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 10+ years of experience in underground utility construction estimating.
• At least 5 years in a leadership or management role overseeing estimating teams.
• Proven success managing large, complex infrastructure bids and estimating operations.

Certifications (Preferred):

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Construction Safety Certification
• Valid Driver’s License

Skills & Competencies:

• Advanced expertise in estimating software (e.g., HCSS Heavy Bid, Bluebeam).
• Strong leadership, team-building, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional analytical and financial acumen.
• Deep understanding of underground utility construction methods and industry standards.
• Strong negotiation and contract review capabilities.
• Excellent communication and executive presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer.
• Ability to review detailed plans, specifications, and technical documents.
• Occasional site visits requiring walking, standing, and navigating construction environments.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.

Work Environment:

• Prima…