Estimator

Position Summary
The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for underground utility construction projects. This role evaluates project plans, specifications, labor requirements, equipment needs, subcontractor pricing, and material costs to develop detailed proposals and bid packages. The Estimator works closely with operations, project management, and leadership teams to ensure estimates align with project requirements and company objectives.
Essential Functions

• Review project plans, drawings, specifications, bid documents, and contract requirements to determine project scope and estimate requirements.
• Prepare complete cost estimates for underground utility projects including labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and associated indirect costs.
• Analyze project risks, site conditions, schedules, and constructability factors that may impact project costs.
• Solicit and evaluate pricing from vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and calculations for labor, material, and equipment requirements.
• Develop detailed bid proposals and supporting documentation.
• Coordinate with project managers, field operations, engineering teams, and leadership during estimate development.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project walkthroughs as required.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving alternatives.
• Maintain accurate estimating databases and historical cost information.
• Track awarded and non-awarded projects to improve estimating accuracy.
• Assist with project handoff meetings to operations after project award.
• Ensure all estimates comply with company standards and customer requirements.
• Support contract review and scope clarification activities.
• Maintain awareness of market conditions, material pricing trends, labor availability, and industry changes.

Qualifications
Required:

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.
• 3+ years of estimating experience in underground utility construction or related construction industry.
• Knowledge of underground utility construction methods, including:
  • Telecommunications
  • Electric utilities
  • Water and sewer systems
  • Gas utilities
  • Directional drilling
  • Trenching and excavation
  • Fiber installation
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and utility plans.
• Experience performing quantity takeoffs and cost analysis.
• Strong understanding of labor production rates and construction equipment capabilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Experience using estimating software and project management systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• Experience with municipal, utility, or communications construction projects.
• Knowledge of union and non-union labor environments.
• Experience with Bluebeam software or other estimating platforms such as HeavyBid, B2W, HCSS, etc.