Civil/DOT Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

About KCI Construction

At KCI Construction, we’re not just building roads and bridges — we’re building futures. As a self-performing, 100% employee-owned company with more than a century of experience, we take pride in doing things the right way — with integrity, teamwork, and craftsmanship. Our hands-on approach allows us to control quality, drive innovation, and deliver results that stand the test of time. You’ll join a collaborative, people-focused environment where hard work is recognized, voices are heard, and growth is encouraged.

Why You'll Love Working Here

• Competitive Benefits: Competitive Pay, ESOP participation, 401(k), bonuses and 100% paid health coverage.
• Work-Life Balance: Unlimited PTO and flexibility that supports your well-being.
• Great Team: Work alongside talented builders, problem-solvers, and employees who take pride in their craft.
• Community Impact: Join a company that actively gives back through volunteerism and partnerships.
• Safety First: We live by our safety standards-every day on every site. 

The Opportunity

As a Civil/DOT Estimator, you’ll help build the infrastructure that keeps communities connected. In this role, you’ll translate plans into execution by developing production-driven estimates that directly impact how projects are built, staffed, and delivered.

What You’ll Do

• Analyze plans, specifications, and bid documents to define scope, risk, and execution strategy.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and develop production-based cost estimates for self-performed work (earthwork, utilities, structures, concrete, and water/wastewater systems).
• Build accurate, competitive bids aligned with field operations and project sequencing.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotes.
• Collaborate with operations to validate means, methods, crew sizes, and production rates.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and support post-award buyout and handoff to operations.
• Support DBE/MBE/WBE participation and ensure compliance with DOT, municipal, and water/wastewater authority requirements.
• Continuously improve estimating practices using tools such as HCSS HeavyBid, historical cost data, and production tracking.

Who You Are

• Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to accuracy and accountability.
• Thinks like a builder—understands how work gets done in the field across civil and wastewater environments.
• Organized and self-driven, able to manage multiple bids and deadlines.
• Strong communicator who builds trust with field teams, partners, and leadership.
• Analytical and production-focused—turns data into actionable, competitive estimates.
• Adaptable and steady under pressure in a fast-paced bid environment.
• Lives out KCI’s GRiT values —Growth, Resilience, Integrity, and Teamwork.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (preferred).
• 3+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil, highway, or water/wastewater construction.
• Proven experience estimating self-performed work in heavy civil.
• Strong familiarity with DOT, municipal, and water/wastewater authority standards preferred.
• Proficiency in HCSS HeavyBid or similar estimating software.
• Working knowledge of production rates, crew composition, and equipment utilization.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills with a team-first mindset.

KCI is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer regardless of race, color, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious beliefs, material status, genetic information, national origin, disability or protection veteran status.