Senior Estimator, Excavation/Sitework

Spyglass Talent Solutions, a retained recruitment firm, has been engaged to conduct a search for a Senior Estimator with a well-established grading and utility contractor based in the Raleigh, North Carolina area. This contractor has been in business for almost a century, and has a strong reputation for delivering complex, large-scale sitework and infrastructure projects , including schools, universities, and major redevelopment work.

With a solid backlog and history of successfully executing challenging commercial and institutional projects, this is a stable and rewarding environment for an experienced estimator looking to make an impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead estimating efforts for assigned private and public projects, including document review, takeoffs, and cost analysis.
• Coordinate bid processes by distributing plans/specs and managing communication with subcontractors and suppliers.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs using HCSS HeavyBid and earthwork modeling tools like Agtek or Carlson .
• Analyze plans to define scope, identify risks, and propose value engineering options.
• Develop crew breakdowns, production rates, and duration schedules to support accurate cost projections.
• Communicate with subs, suppliers, and GCs to clarify scope, pricing, and bid assumptions.
• Ensure compliance with minority participation requirements and public project documentation.
• Collaborate with internal teams to align preconstruction planning with project execution.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, handoffs, and coordination calls with clients, engineers, and developers.
• Respond to scope changes, plan updates, and change order requests throughout the preconstruction phase.

Skills and Experience

• 3+ years of estimating experience in grading, utilities, or civil sitework .
• Proficiency with HCSS HeavyBid, Agtek/Carlson, and Bluebeam .
• Strong knowledge of construction drawings, soils, and underground systems.
• Clear communicator with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience with complex commercial sites or public sector work is a plus.