Chief Estimator
Judge Direct Placement
We are seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead our clients estimating department and drive the successful pursuit of public works and infrastructure construction projects. This executive-level leadership role combines hands‑on estimating expertise with departmental oversight, strategic bid planning, team leadership, and business development. The ideal candidate is a proven construction estimating professional with extensive experience in public‑sector projects, prevailing wage compliance, and leading high‑performing estimating teams. You will play a critical role in developing competitive bids, managing risk, mentoring staff, and ensuring project profitability. Key Responsibilities Lead and oversee all estimating activities from project identification through bid submission Develop and execute bid strategies that maximize competitiveness while maintaining profitability Review and approve all estimates, proposals, and bid submissions Maintain ongoing communication with executive leadership throughout the bidding process Manage estimating schedules and prepare weekly bid calendars to ensure timely submissions Prepare detailed conceptual and hard‑bid estimates for public works, municipal, educational, and infrastructure projects Analyze plans, specifications, contracts, and bid documents to identify project scope, risks, and pricing opportunities Perform quantity takeoffs, labor analysis, equipment pricing, and material cost evaluations Conduct value engineering exercises to optimize project costs and improve bid competitiveness Evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals and compare competitive trade bids Public Works Compliance Ensure all estimates comply with prevailing wage requirements and public agency procurement regulations Identify D/M/WBE participation requirements and develop compliance strategies Prepare all bid forms, proposal documentation, Statements of Qualifications (SOQs), RFQs, and RFP responses Support Joint Venture pursuits, including preparation of JV manuals and bid documentation Lead, mentor, develop, and supervise estimating staff Assign workload and monitor performance of estimators and takeoff personnel Foster professional growth through coaching and training initiatives Establish estimating procedures, standards, and best practices Manage project and bid setup within Procore BuildingConnected SmartBid On-Screen Takeoff (OST) Utilize estimating and project management systems to maintain accurate records and reporting Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience 10+ years of estimating experience on public works or government-funded construction projects 5+ years leading or managing estimating teams Demonstrated success developing and winning large, complex construction bids Ability to interpret construction plans, specifications, contracts, and technical documents Experience performing conceptual estimating, hard bidding, and value engineering #J-18808-Ljbffr
$190k - $240k
Overview Shimmick is seeking a highly talented Chief Estimator based out of Irvine, CA. This challenging position will provide an excellent growth opportunity while improving the infrastructure of the city. At Shimmick, we are problem solvers. Creative thinkers. Innovators...SuggestedFull time$200k
...talent who thrive in a collaborative work environment and appreciate challenges and opportunities.OHLA USA, is seeking a Regional Chief Estimator in Irvine, CA. This is a full-time in office position. ResponsibilitiesResponsible for all aspects of Estimating processConduct...SuggestedFull timeFor subcontractorWork at officeLocal area- ...Overview A Senior Chief Estimator is a high-level construction professional leading the estimating department and responsible for accurate, competitive cost analysis, bid strategy, team mentorship, and ensuring profitability on large, complex projects. The role requires...SuggestedContract workFor subcontractor
- ...is a permanent, full time position offering a competitive salary and benefits package. Responsibilities: Coordinate with Chief Plumbing Estimator and report to Estimating Director on current and upcoming projects. Review and approve final HVAC numbers on medium and large...SuggestedPermanent employmentFull timeFor subcontractor
- ...offering a competitive salary and benefits package. Responsibilities: Review and approve HVAC Estimating projects and major buyout of projects. Coordinate with Chief Plumbing Estimator and report to Estimating Director. Mentor Jr/Mid-Level HVAC Estimators in...SuggestedPermanent employmentFull timeFor subcontractor
$110k - $150k
Overview Shimmick is seeking a talented Senior Estimator to be based in Irvine, CA, Suisun City, CA, Seattle, WA, Denver, CO, Dallas, TX, or remotely. This challenging position will provide excellent growth opportunity while supporting complex civil infrastructure projects...Full timeFor subcontractorWork at officeRemote workFlexible hours$90k - $125k
Overview Shimmick is seeking a talented Estimator to be based in our Suisun City, CA, Irvine, CA locations or in Dallas, TX. This challenging position will provide excellent growth opportunity while supporting complex civil infrastructure projects across Shimmick's expanding...Full timeTemporary workFor subcontractorWork at officeFlexible hours$160k - $215k
Overview Shimmick is seeking a Lead Estimator to be based in Suisun City, CA, Irvine, CA, Denver, CO, Seattle, WA, or remotely.This role is responsible for compiling, reviewing, analyzing, and quoteing project materials, labor, equipment, data, environmental factors,...Full timeContract workWork at officeRemote workFlexible hours- ...Chief Mechanical Estimator job in Orange County, CA We are a large HVAC and Plumbing Contractor currently hiring for a Chief HVAC Estimator to help us build accurate winning estimates for the hvac wet and dry portion of our projects. This is a full time position with...Full timeFor contractorsCurrently hiring
$75k - $130k
...Irvine, Irvine, CA, US 9 days ago Requisition ID: 1860 Salary Range: $75,000.00 To $130,000.00 Annually The Auto Collision Repair Estimator is a skilled hourly/commission position that must be an experienced professional in all aspects of repair planning and proficient...Hourly payFull timeWork at office$80k - $120k
...Align Builders is on a mission to redefine the construction experience. We are seeking an Estimator who possesses strong values, communicates clearly, displays a consistently strong work ethic, and is eager to build lasting relationships. The primary function of the estimator...Contract workFor contractorsFor subcontractorWork at office- ..., CA 92704 Salary Range: $1.00 - $1.00 Salary Working with employees, clients, specifying engineers, and vendors; and managing an estimate from beginning to end. This position reports to management within the estimating department and manage exiting estimating assistant...Contract workFor contractorsFor subcontractorWork at office
$200k
...Senior Estimator Works directly with Chief Estimator to generate estimates for large projects. Compile bidders lists with PM's. Maintains bid log and actively updates status for management. Interact directly with project owners as required including attending meetings...For subcontractorLocal area- ...considered Uprite Construction's property, and no fees will be paid for unsolicited referrals.* Uprite Construction is seeking a Junior Estimator to join our growing Preconstruction team in Irvine, California, Plano, Texas, Phoenix, Arizona, or Roseville, California. You MUST...Contract workFor contractorsFor subcontractorLocal area
- ...About the Role Seeking a Construction Estimator who ’s eager to grow, learn, and make an impact within a collaborative and forward‑thinking construction team. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, enjoys the challenge of complex projects...Full timeFor subcontractor
$145k - $155k
...supporting each other and making a difference in the communities we serve. We're thrilled to welcome a California-based Senior Cost Estimator to our team in Irvine, CA . In this role, you'll serve as a trusted cost advisor, leading the development of complex project...Local areaRemote work- ...fees will be paid for unsolicited referrals. Uprite Construction is growing our Southwest presence and looking to bring on a Senior Estimator in Irvine. This person will play a key role in preconstruction, helping us pursue and win complex ground‑up projects with a strong...Price workFor contractorsFor subcontractorLocal area
- ...quality execution. We offer a collaborative environment where motivated construction professionals can learn directly from experienced estimators, project managers, and leadership. Why join us? Structured Career Growth Mentorship from seasoned Project Managers...For contractorsFor subcontractorLocal area
$27.31 - $40.59 per hour
...What to Expect The Tesla Collision Repair Program is looking for a Collision Estimator to work on one of the most progressive vehicle brands in the world. This position will involve supporting the Body Repair Program in all aspects. If you are interested in becoming a...Hourly payFull timeTemporary workFlexible hoursNight shift- ...Estimator Position at TABER TABER, the leading manufacturer of custom millwork, metalwork, and upholstery in Orange County, is seeking an Estimator to join our growing team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the architectural millwork industry, possess...For contractorsFor subcontractorLocal area
- ...Heavy Civil Estimator (Mass Grading) Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced Heavy Civil Estimator with strong expertise in mass grading to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates, analyzing project plans...For subcontractor
$86k - $158k
...Job Title Prepare detailed Self-Perform Operations (SPO) drywall estimates for project based on construction drawings and specifications; and communicate bids and scopes of work. Essential Duties & Key Responsibilities: Prepare detailed Self-Perform Operations...Contract workTemporary workWork at officeLong distanceFlexible hours- ...complex construction projects is seeking an experienced Commercial Estimator to join its growing team. This is an outstanding... ...CAREER ADVANCEMENT Clear path toward Senior Estimator, Chief Estimator, Preconstruction Manager, and Director-level positions...Temporary workFor contractorsFor subcontractor
$70k - $100k
...Job Description Job Description Sales EstimatorPosition Summary Cap Edge Construction is seeking an experienced Sales Estimator to join our growing team. The Estimator will be responsible for inspecting residential and commercial property damage, preparing accurate...Contract workFor contractors$150k
...Roberts, Inc., a leading figure in underground pipeline construction! We are looking for a charismatic, detail-oriented, self-motivated Estimator who excels in both verbal and written communication. Your role will be pivotal in preparing detailed cost estimates for public...- ...Description Job Description Job description: Job Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Fire Sprinkler Estimator to join our dynamic construction team. In this role, you will be responsible for accurately estimating the costs associated with...For subcontractorWork at office
- ...Senior Estimator-HVAC position in Irvine, CA We are a large, growing mechanical contractor that works on some of CA's biggest and best projects. Responsibilities for Senior Estimator-HVAC: Read AutoCAD Drawings Prepare mechanical estimate take-offs Review...Full timeFor contractorsFor subcontractor
- ...Plumbing Estimator position in Irvine, CA We are currently looking for a Plumbing Estimator to fill an immediate opening. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience in mechanical estimating. Responsibilities for the Plumbing Estimator Build Conceptual...Full timeImmediate start
- ...Job Description Job Description We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Senior Estimator to join our construction team. In this pivotal role, you will lead the development of accurate and comprehensive project estimates, ensuring competitive pricing while aligning...Contract workFor subcontractor
- Title: Estimator Status: Exempt Created/Revised: November 2020 SUMMARY The Estimator is primarily responsible for determining the approximate cost associated with the vehicle’s damages and determining the timeline by which the repairs can be made. The Estimator is also...
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