Waterline Project Manager / Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Build a Division. Build Your Career.

The Vallejo Company is seeking an experienced Waterline Project Manager / Estimator to lead and expand our growing municipal water infrastructure division. This is more than a traditional project management position—this is an opportunity to help shape the future of a growing business unit.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in municipal waterline construction, estimating, project management, and client relationship development. They will work closely with executive leadership to grow the division by identifying opportunities, preparing competitive estimates, successfully managing projects, and developing lasting relationships with municipalities, engineers, and owners.

If you enjoy building something from the ground up and want the opportunity to make a lasting impact within a growing company, we'd like to talk with you.

Position Summary

The Waterline Project Manager / Estimator is responsible for the complete lifecycle of municipal waterline construction projects—from estimating and bidding through project execution and closeout. This position will oversee project profitability, scheduling, client communication, subcontractor management, and field operations while helping establish processes that support the long-term growth of the division.

This position reports directly to executive leadership and plays a key role in expanding Vallejo's presence throughout Northeast Ohio.

Primary Responsibilities

Estimating & Business Development

• Prepare complete cost estimates for municipal waterline and underground utility projects.
• Review plans, specifications, and bid documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and subcontractor/vendor solicitation.
• Develop competitive pricing strategies.
• Identify value engineering opportunities.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits.
• Assist with proposal preparation and contract negotiations.
• Identify upcoming bidding opportunities.
• Develop relationships with municipalities, consulting engineers, and general contractors.
• Support long-term strategic growth of the Waterline Division.

Project Management

• Manage projects from award through final closeout.
• Develop project schedules and work plans.
• Monitor budgets, production, and profitability.
• Prepare monthly cost forecasts.
• Track labor productivity and equipment utilization.
• Manage subcontractors and suppliers.
• Coordinate material procurement.
• Review pay applications and owner billings.
• Prepare and negotiate change orders.
• Ensure project documentation is complete and accurate.
• Lead project meetings with owners, engineers, inspectors, and field personnel.

Field Leadership

• Support Superintendents and Foremen throughout project execution.
• Coordinate staffing and resource allocation.
• Assist with production planning.
• Resolve field issues promptly.
• Promote quality workmanship and continuous improvement.
• Foster a culture of teamwork and accountability.

Safety & Quality

• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety policies.
• Promote proactive safety leadership.
• Participate in safety planning and jobsite inspections.
• Ensure all quality control requirements, testing, and documentation are completed.

Division Growth

One of the primary responsibilities of this position is helping build Vallejo's Waterline Division into one of Northeast Ohio's premier underground utility contractors.

This includes:

• Developing repeat municipal clients.
• Building relationships with consulting engineers.
• Identifying new market opportunities.
• Improving estimating accuracy.
• Assisting in developing standardized project management processes.
• Mentoring future project managers and field leaders.
• Contributing ideas that improve profitability and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

Required

• 7+ years of experience managing municipal underground utility construction projects.
• Experience estimating municipal waterline projects.
• Knowledge of waterline installation, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and site utilities.
• Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of project scheduling and cost control.
• Ability to read construction plans and specifications.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred

• Experience with Ohio municipal water projects.
• Knowledge of Ohio EPA requirements.
• Experience with lead service line replacement programs.
• Experience with public bidding (ODOT, municipalities, county agencies).
• Proficiency with HCSS HeavyBid, HeavyJob, Foundations, or similar construction software.
• OSHA 30 Certification.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Thinks like an owner.
• Understands both construction operations and financial performance.
• Enjoys solving problems.
• Builds strong relationships with clients and employees.
• Takes pride in developing people.
• Wants to help grow a business—not simply manage projects.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive Salary (commensurate with experience)
• Performance Bonus Opportunity
• Company Vehicle
• Company Phone & Laptop
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Company-Paid Health Insurance
• Paid Vacation & Holidays
• Professional Development Opportunities

Why Vallejo?

At Vallejo, you'll have the opportunity to do more than manage projects—you'll help build a division. We are investing in the future of our underground utility business and are looking for a leader who wants to grow alongside the company. Your ideas, experience, and leadership will directly influence our success, making this an exceptional opportunity for someone who wants to leave a lasting impact rather than simply fill a role.

This version is designed to attract experienced project managers who are motivated by growth, leadership, and the opportunity to shape a business, rather than candidates looking for a routine project management position.