Entry Level Estimator

Entry Level Estimator

Job Locations


US-IA-Council Bluffs

ID


2026-7590

Category


Engineering

Type


Full-Time Regular - 40 hours

Posted Date


3 months ago(2/24/2026 11:36 AM)

Overview

Join us as we Rise to the Challenge

At KCI, we're building an enduring community that provides unparalleled value to our employee-owners. We make our mark designing and delivering our world-class solutions, so we invest deeply in supporting and developing our team. We reward integrity and commitment, and when we do well, you do well. Our employees have the freedom to innovate, unlimited growth, a voice that matters, a lifestyle that works, and skin in the game. Achievements are shared and celebrated. As a team, we are motivated to better ourselves, each other, and the world around us.

THE COMPANY

KCI Technologies, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned engineering, consulting and construction firm serving clients throughout the United States. KCI is recognized as an industry leader, employing cutting-edge technologies, management practices and strategic growth initiatives. Employee ownership fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, encourages technical expertise, and shapes strategic planning.

KCI is currently ranked #50 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 design firms in the nation.

KCI BENEFITS INFORMATION

We offer a competitive compensation package, family friendly benefits, a collaborative working environment, and the training, mentoring and resources you need to advance in your career.

We understand that you have choices, and we know that together we will make a great team!

KCI is committed to building a diverse and inclusive staff, and we encourage women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and individuals with disabilities to apply.

KCI Technologies, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

Duties, Responsibilities & Other

KCI's cost estimating and scheduling practice is a unique service within KCI which develops detailed "production-based" construction cost estimates and schedules for a variety of clients. These clients include owners, contractors and design firms throughout North America. We specialize in contractor-style cost estimates utilizing HCSS HeavyBid. Depending on the project, our estimating process requires various tasks such as performing detailed quantity takeoffs, constructability analysis, Critical Path Method (CPM) schedules utilizing Primavera P6 software, risk analysis, etc. to develop a cost estimate. The strength of our team comes from our collective years of experience in the construction industry.

As an Entry Level Estimator for KCI, your role is to assist in the development of cost estimates for complex heavy civil construction projects. This entry level role requires a rudimentary understanding of the civil engineering and construction industries. Working under the guidance of experienced estimators, you will contribute to various tasks and projects, helping ensure they meet our high standards and client expectations. This role offers a valuable opportunity for professional growth and practical application of your degree.

Key Responsibilities:
* Thoroughly review bid documents, plans, specifications, and project scope to accurately assess project requirements.
* Perform detailed quantity take-offs for various project elements utilizing industry standard software.
* Assist in the development of detailed cost estimates for heavy civil construction projects, including material, labor, equipment, and subcontractor costs utilizing HCSS HeavyBid software.
* Collaborate with estimating team members to brainstorm and develop cost effective solutions to project challenges.
* Assist in the preparation of CPM project schedules.
* Conduct project site visits to gather necessary data, including measurements, sketches, notes, and photographs.
* Develop CAD drawings depicting construction methodology concepts.
* Stay updated on industry trends, construction costs, and emerging technologies.
* Achieve or exceed budgets individual utilization targets.
* Comply with all KCI policies and procedures.
* Ensure projects comply with ISO standards.

* Essential Duties and Responsibilities are the basic job functions that an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation

Qualifications

Education and/or Skills Required:
* 0-2 Years of experience within the heavy civil industry.
* Bachelor's degree Civil Engineering, Construction Management or related field.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
* Excellent public speaking, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
* Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
* Good communication and technical writing skills.
* Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
* Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
* Strong problem-solving skills and ability to think critically.

Education and/or Work Experience Preferred:
* Previous internships or work experience in this industry.
* Working knowledge of cost estimating software (HCSS HeavyBid or similar).
* Working knowledge of common industry quantity takeoff software (Bluebeam Revu or similar).
* Working knowledge of Primavera P6 scheduling software.
* AutoCAD or MicroStation experience

Pre-employment drug screening and background check are conditions of employment. Motor vehicle checks may be required based upon position.