More jobs:
Senior Estimator
Job in
Chicago, Cook County, Illinois, 60290, USA
Listed on 2026-07-13
Listing for:
Appleton Finn
Per diem
position Listed on 2026-07-13
Job specializations:
-
Construction
Estimator, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveyor -
Engineering
Estimator, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveyor
Job Description & How to Apply Below
The Heavy Civil Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for complex infrastructure and heavy civil construction projects. This position works closely with operations, engineering, project management, procurement, and executive leadership to develop comprehensive bid proposals that align with company objectives while maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality, and profitability.
The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical skills, extensive knowledge of heavy civil construction means and methods, and the ability to evaluate project risks and opportunities throughout the estimating process.
- Review and analyze plans, specifications, contracts, and other bid documents to determine project scope and requirements.
- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for earthwork, utilities, concrete, structures, paving, grading, excavation, and other heavy civil work.
- Develop complete cost estimates including labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, trucking, temporary works, and indirect costs.
- Solicit, review, and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations to ensure scope completeness and competitiveness.
- Coordinate with operations personnel to develop construction sequencing, work plans, equipment strategies, and production assumptions.
- Prepare bid summaries, estimate reviews, and executive presentations prior to bid submission.
- Identify project risks, constructability concerns, schedule impacts, and value engineering opportunities.
- Maintain and update estimating databases, production rates, labor costs, equipment costs, and historical pricing information.
- Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project walkthroughs as required.
- Collaborate with project teams to ensure a seamless transition from estimating to project execution following contract award.
- Support change order pricing, budget development, conceptual estimating, and negotiated work as needed.
- Ensure all estimates comply with company standards, client requirements, and bid submission deadlines.
- Participate in post-bid reviews to evaluate estimate performance and identify continuous improvement opportunities.
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred.
- Equivalent combination of education and heavy civil construction experience will be considered.
- 5+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil construction preferred.
- Highway and roadway construction
- Bridges and structures
- Earthwork and mass grading
- Excavation and trenching
- Industrial or energy infrastructure projects
- Strong understanding of heavy civil construction methods, equipment capabilities, production rates, and scheduling.
- Experience with conceptual, design-build, CMGC, negotiated, and hard-bid procurement methods is preferred.
- Proficiency with estimating software such as HCSS Heavy Bid, B2W Estimate, InEight Estimate, AGTEK, Bid2
Win, or similar platforms. - Experience with Bluebeam Revu, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or digital takeoff software.
- Strong Microsoft Excel skills, including advanced formulas and data analysis.
- Familiarity with Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project is beneficial.
- Ability to interpret civil engineering drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents.
- Strong analytical and mathematical abilities.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple estimates and competing deadlines simultaneously.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Effective negotiation and relationship-building skills with subcontractors, suppliers, and project stakeholders.
- High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
- Sound judgment and problem‑solving skills under tight bid schedules.
- Ability to travel to project sites and attend pre‑bid meetings as necessary.
- Ability to perform occasional field walks over uneven terrain and active construction sites.
- Ability to sit for extended periods while preparing estimates and analyzing project documentation.
Candidates with…
Position Requirements
10+ Years
work experience
To View & Apply for jobs on this site that accept applications from your location or country, tap the button below to make a Search.
(If this job is in fact in your jurisdiction, then you may be using a Proxy or VPN to access this site, and to progress further, you should change your connectivity to another mobile device or PC).
(If this job is in fact in your jurisdiction, then you may be using a Proxy or VPN to access this site, and to progress further, you should change your connectivity to another mobile device or PC).
Search for further Jobs Here:
×