Senior Estimator-Heavy Civil/Highway

About the Company

Our client is an established heavy civil construction contractor specializing in highway infrastructure, paving, underground utilities, and site preparation. The company has built a strong reputation for delivering high-profile public and private construction projects.

With a longstanding commitment to safety, quality, and customer service, the organization offers an opportunity to join an experienced team and contribute to complex infrastructure projects throughout the region.

About the Position

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to lead estimating efforts for civil heavy highway projects throughout New Jersey. Based in South Plainfield, this individual will prepare competitive, comprehensive bids for projects involving site preparation, underground utilities, highways, roadways, bridges, and asphalt paving.

Working from a modern office alongside a collaborative team, the Senior Estimator will develop detailed cost estimates, evaluate project risks, coordinate with vendors and suppliers, and help position the company for successful project awards. The ideal candidate brings extensive heavy civil estimating experience, strong technical capabilities, and the ability to develop accurate bids while meeting demanding deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

- Prepare and submit competitive bids for heavy civil and highway construction projects throughout New Jersey.

- Review drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, addenda, and other bid documents to establish complete project scope and identify potential discrepancies.

- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and develop comprehensive cost estimates, including self-perform labor and crew costs, equipment, materials, indirect costs, staffing, and schedules.

- Evaluate project risks, competitive conditions, constructability, alternative construction methods, and value engineering opportunities.

- Review applicable Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Small Business Enterprise (SBE) participation requirements and goals.

- Attend pre-bid meetings and jobsite visits to assess project conditions, clarify scope, and identify potential challenges.

- Build and maintain strategic relationships with subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers to secure competitive pricing and favorable commitments.

- Evaluate supplier and subcontractor proposals to determine the best overall value for each project.

- Communicate with clients, follow up on submitted bids, and assist with bid negotiations and scope clarification.

- Coordinate with internal teams to validate estimates, review pricing strategies, and ensure proposals are complete and submitted in time for review.

- Maintain accurate estimating documentation and support consistent bidding practices that align with company standards and project objectives.

Requirements

- Minimum of 10 years of experience as a field engineer, project engineer, construction estimator, or in a related construction role.

- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, preferably Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Engineering Technology, or a related field.

- Demonstrated understanding of heavy civil, highway, paving, utility, or site preparation construction.

- Ability to interpret construction drawings, business documents, technical specifications, procedures, and applicable regulations.

- Strong attention to detail, with the ability to identify discrepancies, evaluate risks, and develop accurate cost estimates.

- Proven organizational and planning skills, including the ability to prioritize competing deadlines and deliver complete bids on schedule.

- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, HCSS Heavy Bid, Agtek, Bluebeam, and Procore.

- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively in English.

- Effective leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, with a strong work ethic and commitment to team success.

- Commitment to workplace safety, quality standards, ethical conduct, company policies, and the employee handbook.

Benefits

- Competitive annual salary of $135,000–$175,000, depending on experience.

- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

- Life insurance.

- 401(k) retirement plan.

- Company profit-sharing program.

- Performance-based bonus opportunities.

- Modern office environment and the opportunity to work with an experienced, collaborative estimating team.

- Opportunity to contribute to significant heavy civil and infrastructure projects across New Jersey.