Estimator-Heavy Civil & Underground Utilities

About the Company

Our client is a 100% employee-owned general and heavy civil construction contractor. With more than 50 years of experience delivering infrastructure projects throughout the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland markets, the company has established a strong reputation for dependable project execution and quality workmanship.

The organization values collaboration, accountability, and an inclusive workplace where employee-owners contribute to the company's continued success. This is an opportunity to join an established contractor and play a meaningful role in delivering essential infrastructure projects across the region.

About the Position

Our client is seeking an experienced Construction Estimator with a background in heavy civil construction and underground utilities, including wet and/or dry utility systems. This individual will support the estimating team by developing accurate, competitive bids and coordinating with internal project stakeholders, suppliers, and subcontractors throughout the bidding process.

The Estimator will evaluate project plans, determine labor and material requirements, assess production costs, and identify potential risks that could affect project budgets and schedules. The successful candidate will be detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple bids while meeting critical deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

- Review construction plans, specifications, and bid documents to determine project scope and estimating requirements.

- Develop detailed cost estimates for heavy civil and underground utility projects, including wet and/or dry utilities.

- Calculate crew costs, labor classifications, equipment requirements, staffing needs, daily expenses, production costs, and material quantities.

- Collaborate with project stakeholders to establish projected schedules, budgets, resource requirements, and potential construction challenges.

- Solicit and evaluate pricing from suppliers and subcontractors and negotiate to secure competitive costs.

- Identify potential cost exposures, estimating discrepancies, and project risks, communicating findings to the Chief Estimator.

- Review estimates with the Chief Estimator to validate pricing, assumptions, and bid strategy.

- Prepare, complete, and review bid packages to ensure accuracy and timely submission.

- Update estimates to reflect last-minute pricing changes and other developments before bid deadlines.

- Prepare bid turnover documentation and contract bond order forms.

- Lead the turnover process with the Superintendent and project management team to support a smooth transition from estimating to project execution.

- Perform additional estimating and preconstruction duties as needed.

Requirements

- Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management, with a minimum of 2–3 years of full-time estimating experience in heavy civil construction and underground wet and/or dry utilities; or
substantial full-time estimating experience in these areas in lieu of a degree.

- Relevant experience preparing estimates for heavy civil infrastructure and underground utility projects.

- Strong understanding of construction plans, specifications, labor requirements, equipment costs, materials, and production rates.

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including strong grammar, spelling, and attention to detail.

- Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet strict bid deadlines.

- Computer proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

- Experience with HCSS Heavy Bid is required.

Benefits

- Competitive compensation based on experience.

- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), allowing employees to share in the company's success.

- Vehicle allowance.

- Company-paid fuel.

- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

- Paid time off (PTO).

- Employee assistance program.

- Life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance.

- Long-term disability insurance.

- Paid holidays.

- Safety Boot Program.

- Opportunity to build a long-term career with an established, employee-owned heavy civil contractor.