Lead Estimator

Lead Estimator

Interstate Earthworks, LLC is a Wilks Brothers company. Wilks Brothers is a multifaceted, family-based partnership headquartered in Cisco, Texas with employees working in offices in Cisco, Willow Park, Fort Worth, Houston, and beyond. We invest in relationships and recognize the value in people, communities, and businesses. Our customers are not a number; they are a family member, a friend. In the good times and in difficult times we treat them all equally exactly how we want to be treated. We believe that business is not just about profit it is personal too. At Wilks Brothers, we respect the people that make our business grow: our employees and our customers. Our goal is to develop mutually beneficial partnerships utilizing our core values of Faith, Integrity, Team, Growth and Loyalty.

This position will be on site in Cisco, TX or Fort Worth, TX. Travel may be required for this position.

Benefits:

• Competitive Compensation Package
• Medical + Dental + Vision Coverage
• 401K + Company Match
• Life Insurance + Long Term Disability Coverage 100% Company Paid
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Gym Reimbursement Program
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Wellness Check Program - Insurance Premium Discounts
• EAP Resources
• Voluntary Benefit Offerings
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO)

Position Summary: The Lead Estimator is responsible for overseeing the estimating department and leading the development of accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates for heavy civil, earthwork, and infrastructure construction projects. This role requires a deep understanding of civil construction practices, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects and team members. The Lead Estimator plays a critical role in securing profitable work and supporting project success from initial bid through handoff to operations.

Key Roles / Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the estimating team to prepare detailed cost estimates for a variety of heavy civil and earthwork construction projects.
• Analyze project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
• Identify and quantify cost factors such as production time, materials, and labor expenses.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to collect input and validate estimates.
• Develop and maintain unit pricing databases, historical cost data, and estimating templates.
• Ensure bid packages are complete, accurate, and competitive in alignment with company goals and client expectations.
• Lead bid strategy meetings and ensure thorough risk analysis for each project.
• Review and approve all estimates and final bids prior to submission.
• Build relationships with clients, vendors, and subcontractors to ensure reliable pricing and project intelligence.
• Maintain awareness of market conditions, labor and material pricing trends, and competitor activities.
• Support handoff to project management by providing complete bid documentation and scope clarity.
• Mentor and develop junior estimators, ensuring consistency and growth in the estimating team.

Required Education, Experience, and Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
• 7+ years of estimating experience in the heavy civil, dirt work, or earthmoving industry, including at least 3 years in a leadership or senior estimator role.
• Strong knowledge of grading, excavation, site prep, utilities, and related civil construction scopes.
• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., HCSS HeavyBid, Agtek, Bluebeam, or similar).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to lead a team and coordinate with cross-functional departments.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Working Conditions:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
• Positions self to install equipment, including under desks.
• Moves throughout the building to access files.
• Must be able to comprehend and follow written and oral instructions.
• Must be able to complete tasks even with frequent interruptions.
• Must be able to use discretion and independent judgment as needed.
• Must be able to speak clearly on the phone and to fellow workers.