Project Engineer

Senior Estimator – Wet Utilities

Location: Greater Los Angeles, Orange County, Inland Empire
Salary: Commensurate with Experience
Employment Type: Full-Time

General Summary

The Senior Estimator is responsible for managing the full estimating process for underground wet utility projects — from conceptual estimates to final bid submission and project handoff. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in water, sewer, and storm drain systems, as well as pump stations and treatment facilities. This role requires extensive experience with self-performing heavy civil contractors operating in urban street environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates for wet utility projects including water, sewer, and storm drain systems.

• Develop cost estimates from concept through completion , including transitioning winning bids to operations.

• Analyze project plans, specifications, and requirements to determine scope and cost.

• Evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

• Incorporate field input and historical data to refine estimates and construction methodologies.

• Support operations with change order pricing , value engineering , and alternative method analysis .

• Maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and project partners.

• Ensure all estimates are compliant with company standards and reflect realistic project execution strategies.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of experience estimating wet utility projects (water, sewer, storm drain).

• Strong knowledge of  underground utility construction , paving , and concrete work as related to utility installations.

• Must have worked for a self-performing general engineering contractor performing at-risk work (not CM or government-only estimating).

• Experience working on urban street projects with existing utilities and traffic conditions.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with operations teams.

Software Knowledge

• Required: Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).

• Preferred Experience In:

  • Hard Dollar or HeavyBid or HCSS estimating software

  • Bluebeam (PDF markup & takeoff)

  • Primavera P6 or other scheduling software

  • AutoCAD or similar design review tools

Industry Specialties

Underground Construction • Wet Utilities • General Engineering • Structure Construction • Water & Sewer Pipeline • Oil & Gas Pipeline • Power & Communication Line

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive Salary: Based on experience

• Comprehensive Benefits:

  • 100% employer-paid Health, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance for employee

  • Health insurance coverage for employee and family

  • Company vehicle and gas card provided

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

  • Profit-sharing plan