Estimator

Founded in 1996, CMES, Inc. is a rapidly growing, privately held Georgia-based civil construction company. We are seeking to add an Estimator to our team to support our continued rapid growth within the highway construction industry.

The ideal candidate has experience in accurately estimating project costs, preparing bids, and providing support during the preconstruction phase. They possess in-depth knowledge of construction processes, materials, and industry standards. The Estimator collaborates with project teams, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients to ensure accurate and competitive bids. They also contribute to value engineering, cost analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Estimation

• Prepare accurate and competitive estimates for Heavy Civil, Highway, and Roadway construction projects with DOT experience.
• Review project plans, specifications, bid documents, addenda, and scope requirements.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for grading, demolition, paving, utilities, traffic control, drainage, erosion control, structures, and related civil work.
• Conduct site visits and attend pre-bid meetings to evaluate project conditions, logistics, sequencing, and risks.
• Analyze labor, equipment, materials, subcontractor pricing, and production rates to develop complete project estimates.
• Utilize estimating software, spreadsheets, and historical cost data to prepare bids.
• Coordinate with owners, engineers, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams regarding project questions and bid requirements.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving solutions while maintaining quality and compliance standards.
• Prepare bid summaries, estimate recaps, and proposal documents for management review.

Bid Preparation & Submission

• Prepare complete and competitive bid packages, including cost breakdowns, assumptions, and clarifications.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations for accuracy, scope coverage, and competitiveness.
• Ensure all bid documents are complete, accurate, and compliant with project requirements.
• Submit bids within required deadlines and assist with bid presentations and negotiations as needed.

Preconstruction Support

• Participate in constructability reviews, value engineering discussions, and risk assessments.
• Support preconstruction efforts by preparing technical write-ups, budgets, and project cost summaries.
• Lead project handoff meetings and transition information to operations and field teams after award.
• Assist with project setup in accounting and project management systems, including budgets and cost tracking.
• Coordinate with project management and procurement teams on purchase orders, subcontracts, schedules, and change orders.

Cost Analysis & Reporting

• Monitor estimated costs versus actual project expenses and identify cost variances.
• Prepare budget reports, cost forecasts, and project financial summaries.
• Maintain and update unit pricing, cost databases, and estimating records.
• Provide recommendations for cost control and continuous improvement initiatives.

Supplier & Subcontractor Management

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers.
• Review subcontractor qualifications, compliance requirements, and insurance documentation.
• Continuously identify and expand subcontractor and vendor partnerships across multiple markets.

Collaboration & Development

• Collaborate with field operations teams to strengthen understanding of construction methods and project execution.
• Participate in team meetings, training programs, and professional development opportunities to enhance estimating knowledge and industry expertise.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, Civil engineering, or a related field (preferred).
• 2-5+ years of experience in construction cost estimation, with progressively increasing responsibilities. Preferably in Heavy Civil, Roadway/Highway Construction.
• Strong knowledge of construction processes, materials, and industry standards.
• Proficiency in construction estimating software and tools specifically HCSS and Bid to Win (Office 365, Bluebeam, Heavy Bid, AGTEK, Project Management, Scheduling Software etc. nice to have).
• Advanced skills in quantity takeoff, cost analysis, and pricing.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication (Verbal & Written) and negotiation skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of relevant construction codes, regulations, and safety practices.

Salary Range: $69,000 - $80,000

CMES, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer M/F/V/H/AA. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. CMES, Inc. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty or status as a covered veteran, and without regard to any other characteristic, protected by applicable law, all in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. CMES, Inc. complies with applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, placement, classification, promotion, termination, compensation, benefits, job training, and other aspects of employment.