Civil Sitework and Underground Utility Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Civil Sitework Estimator to join our team, specializing in competitive bid preparation for excavation and underground utility projects. The Estimator will be responsible for accurately calculating the material, labor, and equipment costs required to successfully complete municipal and private civil sitework, with a core focus on water, sewer, and storm drainage systems. The ideal candidate possesses strong technical knowledge, proficiency in industry-specific estimating software, and the ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously under tight deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

• Bid Preparation: Develop comprehensive and accurate cost estimates for various civil sitework projects, including grading, excavation, trenching, backfilling, and primarily the installation of water, sanitary sewer, and storm drain systems.

• Scope Review: Thoroughly analyze construction documents, blueprints, specifications, and geotechnical reports to define the full scope of work, identify potential risks, and propose value engineering solutions.

• Quantity Take-Offs: Perform detailed quantity take-offs using specialized estimating software (e.g., EarthWorks, Agtek, HCSS HeavyBid, B2W) for all components, including pipe, fittings, bedding material, trench depth, earthwork volumes, and site materials.

• Cost Analysis: Determine unit and total costs for labor, equipment rental/ownership, materials, subcontracts, and general conditions. Maintain and update a comprehensive cost database.

• Subcontractor/Supplier Management: Solicit and evaluate quotes from subcontractors and material suppliers, negotiating pricing and ensuring scope coverage.

• Site Evaluation: Conduct pre-bid site visits to assess existing conditions, accessibility, laydown areas, soil types, and other factors that influence construction methods and costs.

• Collaboration: Work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, and Engineers to develop construction means and methods and optimize the project schedule and budget.

• Documentation & Handover: Prepare professional, organized bid proposals and participate in the post-award project hand-off meeting to the operations team, ensuring the budget baseline is clearly communicated.

✅ Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in civil construction with a minimum of 3 years dedicated to estimating heavy civil projects, specifically focusing on underground utilities (water, sewer, storm drain).

• Expert proficiency in performing digital quantity take-offs and utilizing industry-standard estimating software (mention specific software if applicable, e.g., EarthWorks, Agtek, HCSS HeavyBid, etc).

• Deep understanding of excavation and trench safety standards (OSHA), soil mechanics, and common construction means and methods for utility installation.

• Excellent mathematical, analytical, and critical thinking skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to negotiate and present complex information clearly.

• Proven ability to manage multiple simultaneous bids and adhere to strict deadlines.

Desired Attributes

• Experience with estimating large-scale public works projects and familiarity with public bidding procedures.

• Knowledge of local material suppliers, subcontractors, and prevailing wage requirements in the region.

• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel for complex financial modeling.