Civil Estimator

Company Description

Ritacco Construction, Inc., founded in 1987, is a well-established contractor specializing in heavy highway bridge, dam, and concrete construction. The company is committed to building a profitable and innovative organization that continues to grow and adapt to industry changes. Core values include an uncompromising focus on safety, high-quality workmanship, and professional development for all team members. Ritacco Construction encourages new methods and technologies to achieve project goals efficiently and responsibly, offering a stable and growth-oriented environment for construction professionals.

The Civil Estimator is a full-time, on-site position based in Fairfield, NJ. This role is responsible for reviewing project plans, specifications, and addenda to prepare accurate cost estimates for heavy highway, bridge, dam, and concrete projects. Day-to-day tasks include performing quantity takeoffs, soliciting and evaluating subcontractor and vendor quotations, and developing detailed cost breakdowns for labor, materials, and equipment. The Civil Estimator will prepare bid proposals, assist with bid submissions and presentations, and collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, and field teams to ensure estimates reflect current means, methods, and productivity rates.

The role also includes participating in project handoff meetings, supporting value engineering efforts, tracking market pricing trends, and maintaining organized estimate and bid documentation.

• Strong civil construction estimating skills, including quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and bid preparation for heavy highway, bridge, dam, and concrete projects.
• Proficiency with estimating and construction software (e.g., HCSS Heavy Bid, On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, or similar tools) and solid MS Excel skills.
• Knowledge of civil engineering and construction principles, including reading and interpreting plans, specifications, and geotechnical reports.
• Familiarity with NJDOT/NJTA and public works bidding processes, unit pricing, and subcontractor/vendor quote evaluation.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving abilities, with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with internal teams, subcontractors, and clients.
• Demonstrated organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines.
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Previous experience as a civil estimator or in a related construction role, preferably in heavy highway or structural concrete work.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous professional growth aligned with Ritacco Construction’s core values.