Chief Estimator

Rural is not sponsoring visas at this time. Job purpose Rural is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead the pre-construction estimating department, overseeing accurate cost, labor, and material forecasting to secure construction bids. The role manages the bidding process, reviews complex project proposals, identifies risk, and fosters client/subcontractor relationships to ensure competitive, profitable projects. The Chief Estimator provides mentorship and guidance to estimators while fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration. Primary Duties & Responsibilities Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of estimators, assign tasks, provide training, and review their work for accuracy. Bidding Process: Oversee the entire bidding cycle, including detailed analysis of project plans, specifications, and client proposal documents. Risk Management: Analyze bidding risks, identify potential project constraints, and develop mitigation strategies. Cost Analysis: Coordinate the preparation of detailed take-offs, labor, material, and equipment costs. Technology & Tools: Utilize advanced estimating software to enhance efficiency. Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, owners, and design teams to determine project scope, feasibility, and scheduling. Database Management: Maintain and update historical cost databases and price benchmarking to improve future estimating accuracy. Cultivate Relationships: Build effective relationships with customers, design team, specialty contractors, suppliers, and user groups that reflect and support company vision, mission, and core values, and meet or exceed the customer’s expectations. Networking: Actively participate in industry, client, and community relations to enhance company image. Safety and Other: Observe all safety policies and perform other duties as assigned. Skills & Knowledge Leadership Skills: Experience managing teams and directing the estimating function, with strong emphasis on mentoring the team. Technical Skills: Deep understanding of construction means and methods, material pricing, and labor rates. Knowledge and understanding of civil engineering principles. Knowledge and understanding of electrical and underground construction principles. Software Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and specialized estimating software such as Bluebeam, Accubid and Bid 2Win. Education, Qualifications, & Experience 10+ years of construction estimating experience, with a proven track record in industrial projects. Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred. Additional Requirements None. Other Training Requirements HR compliance Continuing education courses as needed Working Conditions Most work will likely be conducted in the Home Office; however, some job site visits may be necessary to properly understand the nature of the work to be performed for accurate bid to be completed. Some work assignments may require periodic travel to job sites (local or remote), including some overnight stays, to meet the needs of the business. Commonly works regular business hours but may have to work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines. Up to 10% domestic travel can be expected. Physical Requirements Frequently talk, hear, and see. Frequently use hands to handle / hold objects, tools, or controls. Consistently stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and/or arms. Occasionally lift 20–50 pounds. Regularly be able to read/use a tablet or computer. Intermediate reading, writing and math skills to complete job-related tasks safely and complete daily job reports. Follow verbal or written assembly instructions for project equipment and materials. Direct Reports None. Equal Opportunity Employer Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans. #J-18808-Ljbffr