Chief Estimator

Position Summary

The Chief Estimator is responsible for leading and overseeing all estimating and preconstruction activities for heavy civil, commercial sitework, and underground utility projects. This role provides strategic direction, ensures accuracy and competitiveness of bids, manages estimating staff, and collaborates closely with operations, business development, and executive leadership to support company growth and profitability.

• Lead, mentor, and develop the estimating and preconstruction team
• Establish estimating standards, procedures, and best practices
• Allocate estimating resources and assign bid responsibilities
• Foster collaboration between estimating, operations, and project management
• Oversee preparation of detailed, accurate, and competitive cost estimates for heavy civil projects
• Review quantity takeoffs, pricing assumptions, subcontractor quotes, and final bid proposals
• Ensure compliance with project plans, specifications, contracts, and bid requirements
• Analyze historical cost data, productivity rates, and risk factors
• Lead bid strategy meetings and participate in go/no-go decisions
• Identify project risks, constructability issues, and cost drivers
• Develop contingency strategies and risk mitigation plans
• Provide value engineering options and alternative construction methods
• Support negotiations with owners, developers, and general contractors

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (preferred)
• 10–15+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil, sitework, and underground utilities
• 5+ years in a senior or leadership estimating role
• Proven track record of successful bids on large-scale and complex projects
• Expert knowledge of earthwork, utilities, concrete, paving, and related civil scopes
• Proficiency in estimating and takeoff software (e.g., Heavy Bid, Agtek, Bluebeam, Trimble, HCSS, or similar)
• Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Salary: $150,000 to $180,000 + performance‑based bonuses

Benefits:
Health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid time off

• Director

• Full‑time

In Office, St. Louis, MO