Estimator, Construction, Civil Engineering

Overview

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for underground utilities, pipeline, wet utilities, grading, structures, and related civil construction projects. This role performs quantity takeoffs, analyzes labor, equipment, material, and subcontractor costs, and prepares complete bid packages in support of business development and project execution. The Estimator works closely with Operations, Project Management, and the Chief Estimator to ensure pricing reflects current market conditions, production expectations, and company profitability goals.

• Review project plans, specifications, addenda, and bid documents to determine scope and estimating requirements.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for underground utilities, grading, structures, and civil scopes.
• Develop accurate cost estimates for labor, equipment, materials, and subcontractors using historical data and production rates.
• Solicit, review, and analyze subcontractor and vendor pricing for scope coverage and competitiveness.
• Prepare bid proposals, scope letters, clarifications, and supporting documentation.
• Attend pre‑bid meetings, job walks, and coordinate RFIs with owners, engineers, and agencies.
• Identify project risks, constructability issues, and value‑engineering opportunities.
• Maintain estimating databases, production histories, unit pricing, and cost libraries.
• Collaborate with Operations and Project Management to validate means and methods, manpower, and equipment assumptions.
• Support bid handoff meetings and transition awarded projects into Operations.
• Prepare quantity summaries, pricing sheets, and estimating logs for management review.
• Assist with bid strategy development, market analysis, and pursuit planning.
• Maintain organized estimating files and bid documentation.
• Maintain confidentiality of all bid pricing, financial data, and competitive information.
• Perform other related duties as required or assigned. Responsibilities may be modified or added based on operational needs and business priorities.

• High school diploma or GED required
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent estimating experience may be substituted for formal education.

• 2–5 years of construction estimating experience required.
• Experience in underground utilities, wet utilities, pipeline, grading, or civil construction strongly preferred.

• Valid California driver’s license required.
• Professional estimating certifications preferred but not required (CPE, DBIA, etc.).

• Strong ability to read and interpret plans, profiles, and technical specifications.
• Proficiency with estimating and takeoff software (HCSS, B2W, Plan Swift, or similar).
• Advanced Excel skills and strong mathematical aptitude.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids, deadlines, and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with Operations, PMs, and vendors.
• High level of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of financial and competitive business information.