Horizontal Construction Estimator

At DAI, we don’t just develop land, we build the foundation for communities where people genuinely love where they live. The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates and budgets for land development projects, including site preparation, infrastructure, utilities, and horizontal construction. In close collaboration with development managers, engineers, contractors, and municipal agencies, the Estimator helps ensure projects are financially feasible, competitively bid, and aligned with development schedules.

The Horizontal Construction Estimator is a full-time, on-site role based in the Salt Lake City Metropolitan Area. The role involves preparing accurate cost estimates for horizontal construction projects, performing quantity take-offs, and managing cost-related information to help ensure successful project completion. The Estimator will collaborate closely with internal teams, stakeholders, and contractors, maintaining clear communication and adherence to budgets throughout the estimation process.

Estimating & Budgeting

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and budgets that support feasibility, entitlement, and construction decision-making for land development projects, including:
• Earthwork and grading
• Roads, curbs, sidewalks, and paving
• Stormwater management and drainage
• Water, sewer, and utility infrastructure
• Erosion control and site stabilization
• Develop conceptual, preliminary, and final project budgets
• Perform quantity takeoffs from civil plans, engineering drawings, and specifications
• Analyze historical cost data and market trends to improve estimate accuracy

Bidding & Procurement

• Solicit, review, and analyze subcontractor and vendor bids
• Level bids and prepare bid comparisons
• Assist with subcontractor selection and contract negotiations
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and value engineering alternatives without compromising quality, schedule, or long-term performance

Project Coordination

• Collaborate with development managers, civil engineers, and project managers to align budgets, schedules, and scopes across the project lifecycle
• Support due diligence, feasibility studies, and land acquisition analysis
• Assist with change order pricing and cost tracking during construction
• Maintain estimating databases, cost libraries, and bid documentation
• Identify cost risks, scope gaps, and constructability issues
• Monitor budget versus actual costs and provide variance explanations
• Support forecasting and cash flow projections
• Proactively communicate potential budget impacts, risks, and assumptions to internal stakeholders

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Finance, or related field or equivalent professional experience
• 1-3+ years of estimating experience in land development, civil construction, or site work
• Strong understanding of civil/site construction means and methods
• Ability to read and interpret civil plans, grading plans, and utility drawings
• Proficiency with estimating software and spreadsheets (e.g., Excel, Bluebeam, CAD, or similar)
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills

Preferred

• Experience with residential, commercial, or mixed-use land development
• Familiarity with local municipalities, permitting processes, and utility providers
• Knowledge of cost databases and takeoff software
• Prior experience working for a developer, civil contractor, or engineering firm
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong time management and ability to meet deadlines
• Collaborative mindset with internal and external teams
• Problem-solving and value engineering skills
• Financial and cost analysis expertise

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Performance-based bonuses
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Office-based with occasional site visits
• Fast-paced development environment with multiple concurrent projects