Estimator, Construction, Civil Engineering

Southland Holdings is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our Heavy Civil Estimating team in Burlington, NC. This position offers the opportunity to work on large-scale infrastructure projects, including bridges, highways, utilities, marine construction, and other complex heavy civil projects.

The Estimator will be responsible for developing detailed construction cost estimates, evaluating project requirements, coordinating subcontractor and supplier pricing, and supporting the preparation of competitive bids. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of construction means and methods, the ability to work independently, and a collaborative approach to estimating.

• Review construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents to evaluate project scope, requirements, and potential risks.
• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and develop comprehensive cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
• Develop construction means and methods, production rates, crew compositions, and equipment requirements for assigned scopes of work.
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure complete and competitive pricing.
• Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, and opportunities for cost savings or alternative construction approaches.
• Coordinate with project management, operations, and other estimating personnel to validate pricing assumptions and construction approaches.
• Independently manage assigned estimate scopes, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with bid requirements.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, estimate reviews, and bid strategy discussions.
• Assist in developing project schedules, indirect costs, and construction execution plans.
• Prepare estimate summaries, bid documentation, and supporting cost analyses.
• Support bid finalization, proposal preparation, and project handoffs to operations.
• Maintain and utilize historical cost data, production rates, and lessons learned to improve estimating accuracy.

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Construction Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• 3–7 years of experience in heavy civil construction estimating, project engineering, or related construction operations.
• Strong understanding of heavy civil construction means, methods, materials, equipment, and production rates.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Experience preparing quantity takeoffs, developing cost estimates, and evaluating subcontractor and supplier proposals.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple assignments and meet bid deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills and the ability to collaborate with estimating and operations teams.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of working independently while contributing to a team environment.

• Experience estimating bridges, highways, underground utilities, marine construction, or other major civil infrastructure.
• Proficiency with HCSS Heavy Bid, Sage, or similar construction estimating software.
• Experience developing crew-based estimates, equipment spreads, and construction production rates.
• Familiarity with DOT specifications, public infrastructure bidding requirements, and subcontractor procurement.
• Field engineering or project management experience on heavy civil construction projects.

• Competitive compensation based…