Senior Estimator- Heavy Civil​/Highway

Application Instructions

Ralph L Wadsworth is looking for a SR Estimator
- Heavy Civil/Highway

Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction (RLW) is a proven leader in heavy civil construction, with over five decades of experience delivering complex, high-impact infrastructure projects across the western United States. Our expertise spans highways, bridges, rail, transit, and structural concrete - and we're continuing to grow.

As part of the Sterling Infrastructure family, RLW offers the strength and resources of a national organization, paired with the agility and close-knit culture of a trusted regional builder.

Why Senior Estimators Choose RLW

At RLW, estimating isn't just about numbers - it's about laying the groundwork for projects that shape communities and last generations.

What sets RLW apart:

• Competitive Package:
Total Compensation, Including Bonus and Perks 120K to 150K DOE

• Impactful Work:
  Prepare winning estimates for large-scale infrastructure projects that serve millions
• Career Growth:
  Clear pathways to leadership within preconstruction and estimating teams
• Collaborative Culture: A supportive environment where your expertise is valued and your voice is heard
• Long-Term Vision: 50+ years of success with a forward-looking leadership team committed to innovation
• We're seeking Senior Estimators with deep civil construction experience, a strategic mindset, and a passion for building accurate, competitive bids - while helping mentor and develop junior team members.

Position Description

Senior Estimator - Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Estimating Process: Analyze proposal specifications, drawings, and related documents, and participate in pre-bid meetings to define the full scope of work and develop a comprehensive estimating plan.
• Leverage Data-Driven Insights: Review and interpret historical cost reports, production data, and records to establish accurate unit costs and man-hour estimates.
• Develop Comprehensive Estimates: Prepare complete, detailed estimates for assigned projects, incorporating takeoffs, subcontracting strategies, and full compliance with proposal requirements.
• Ensure Accuracy & Documentation: Maintain organized electronic and paper files as complete backup for all estimate figures and assumptions.
• Stay at the Forefront of the Industry: Maintain professional and technical expertise through continued education, industry publications, networking, and active participation in professional associations.
• Engage with Senior Leadership: Confidently present estimates and strategies in senior-level meetings, including agenda preparation, minute-taking, and distribution of supporting materials.
• Mentor the Next Generation: Guide and develop junior estimators, sharing expertise and best practices to strengthen the overall estimating team.

Position Requirements

We're looking for a Senior Estimator who thrives on building precise, competitive bids from the ground up-someone who doesn't just read the plans but owns the numbers, the strategy, and the outcome. You'll be a key player in shaping high-profile heavy civil and highway projects, bringing both technical mastery and leadership presence to the table.

• Proven Expertise: 10+ years of heavy civil/highway estimating experience-preferably with underground utility work-and a history of winning $50-$500 million projects through bottom-up estimating strategies.
• Educational Foundation: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management preferred; extensive technical training and proven field experience considered in lieu of degree.
• Master of the Tools:
• Bid2
  
  Win expertise, with a track record of creating accurate, well-structured estimates from the first takeoff to the final bid submission.
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Takeoff software such as AgTEK, Bluebeam, or Planswift
• Scheduling software such as Primavera
• HCSS Heavy Bid or Hard Dollar EOS experience a plus
• Strategic Estimating Skills: Known for building estimates from scratch-analyzing labor, equipment, materials, and subcontractor inputs in detail-while still keeping the overall bid competitive and profitable.
• Project Delivery Savvy: Familiarity with CMAR, CMGC, and Design-Build…