Senior Estimator, Heavy Civil (Public Infrastructure & Utilities)

We are looking for a Chief Estimator, Heavy Civil (Underground Utilities) to lead public works estimating within a self-perform general engineering contractor environment, with full ownership of bid strategy and execution.

This role operates within a heavy civil construction company focused on underground utilities and municipal infrastructure projects, where estimating directly drives backlog and revenue. The position is responsible for producing and winning competitive public works bids while ensuring accuracy, risk control, and alignment with field production capabilities. This is a leadership role requiring deep technical expertise and hands-on involvement in complex bids, not a high-level oversight-only position.

Responsibilities

• Lead full-cycle estimating for heavy civil and underground utility public works projects from bid solicitation through submission
• Develop detailed cost estimates including labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and production rates
• Review plans, specifications, and civil drawings to define scope, identify risks, and validate constructability
• Build and manage bid schedules, ensuring all deadlines, deliverables, and compliance requirements are met
• Solicit, level, and finalize subcontractor and vendor pricing aligned with project scope
• Collaborate with field operations to validate production assumptions, means, and methods
• Analyze historical data and market conditions to improve estimate accuracy and competitiveness
• Drive value engineering and cost optimization strategies during preconstruction
• Present final bid packages to leadership, including margin strategy and risk exposure
• Mentor and oversee estimators while establishing consistent estimating processes and standards

• 10+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil construction with a focus on underground utilities or infrastructure
• Proven experience leading and winning public works bids (municipal, DOT, or government-funded projects required)
• Experience working in a self-perform contractor environment (GC-only backgrounds will not be sufficient)
• Demonstrated ownership of full estimates, not just takeoffs or support roles
• Strong ability to read and interpret civil plans, specifications, and bid documents
• Experience with estimating tools such as HCSS HeavyBid, Bluebeam, or similar platforms
• Must have direct experience estimating projects within California or similar public works markets
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred

• Competitive base salary based on experience
• Stable pipeline of public works projects
• Leadership-level role with visibility and influence on bid strategy
• Established, financially strong organization with long-term client relationships
• Collaborative, decision-driven leadership environment