Estimator

Estimator

Date: May 21, 2026

Location: Chicago, IL, US St Louis, MO, US

Company: RailWorks

RailWorks is committed to helping our employees live better lives. We offer comprehensive benefits packages to eligible employees, including competitive pay, medical, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, and additional performance incentives. Compensation $80000 - $100000 / year

Position Summary

The Estimator prepares take-off and call work for construction projects to assist in developing bids and in the buy-out process.

Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties

• Analyzes blueprints and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates
• Reads and interprets contract documents relating to the assigned specific divisions
• Solicite subcontractor/vendor pricing information
• Analyzes and evaluates bids from subcontractors for their completeness and accuracy in scope of work
• Prepares accurate quantity surveys and take-offs
• Reviews estimate/sub quote files to gain information for current bids
• Reviews and compares KPI for bid preparation
• Prepares spreadsheets and coordinates with estimating staff for bid day
• Prepares and submits multimillion-dollar bids to clients for company services
• Prepares cost estimates and schedules
• Prioritizes issues and prepares reports for senior management and clients
• Logs and files bid documentation after bid day for estimate/sub quote file
• Review contract(s) when awarded to ensure the contract and bid documents are representative of each other
• Prepares and schedules hand off meeting with management to review budget and at bid plan for project execution

Required Skills and Qualifications

A minimum of 3 years of construction estimating experience

Bachelor's Degree in engineering, Construction Engineering, or a related field.

Knowledge of plan reading and interpretation

Proficiency in reviewing contract documents

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Ability to effectively manage multiple tasks and priorities and meet deadlines

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Generally, works indoors, with some onsite/outdoor work

Frequently sits, stands, walks, reads, writes, and uses a computer keyboard

May be exposed to harsh weather conditions including very hot and very cold weather

May be exposed to loud noise.

Company Overview

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned. RailWorks is North America's leading rail maintenance and infrastructure solutions provider. With over 100 years of experience, our geographic footprint enables us to quickly serve our customers and provides ample opportunities for our employees to grow their careers within the company. We take on challenging projects every day and our success relies on a collaborative, safe, and open-minded work environment that encourages teamwork, positivity, and ingenuity. We are committed to creating a culture of trust, respect, and acceptance. RailWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with RailWorks without regard to an individual's sex, race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.