Senior Estimator

Our client is a well-established heavy civil contractor delivering complex infrastructure projects throughout New Jersey and the wider New York metropolitan area. The company specializes in highways, bridges, utilities, site work, concrete, paving, foundations, airports, and related civil construction.

The Role

The Senior Estimator will lead the preparation of competitive estimates for public and private heavy civil projects—from initial bid review through final submission and operational handoff.

This role requires strong knowledge of construction methods, labor and equipment production, subcontractor pricing, risk analysis, and the New Jersey infrastructure market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead estimates for highway, bridge, utility, excavation, concrete, paving, and site-development projects.
• Review plans, specifications, contracts, geotechnical reports, and bid documents.
• Complete detailed quantity takeoffs and develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing.
• Establish project means and methods, crew compositions, production rates, and preliminary schedules.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Identify scope gaps, logistical challenges, constructability concerns, and commercial risks.
• Attend site visits and pre-bid meetings.
• Present estimates and bid strategies to senior leadership.
• Prepare proposals, clarifications, qualifications, and exclusions.
• Coordinate the turnover of successful bids to project management and field teams.
• Mentor junior members of the estimating team.

Requirements

• 10+ years of heavy civil estimating experience.
• Strong experience with highways, bridges, utilities, earthwork, concrete, paving, or related infrastructure.
• Proven ability to estimate self-performed civil construction.
• Experience with public works projects in New Jersey or the Tri-State area.
• Strong knowledge of labor productivity, equipment costs, materials, subcontractor scopes, and construction sequencing.
• Proficiency with estimating and takeoff software and Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline preferred.

Compensation

• $170,000–$220,000 base salary, dependent on experience
• Performance-based bonus
• Comprehensive benefits and retirement plan
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Vehicle allowance or company vehicle
• Long-term career progression with an established heavy civil contractor