JOB SUMMARY
The Estimator is a key leader in the preconstruction process, responsible for preparing comprehensive and competitive cost estimates for heavy civil construction projects. This role involves interpreting and analyzing project documents, conducting site evaluations, and applying advanced estimating techniques to develop accurate bids. The Estimator plays a strategic role by evaluating bidding risks, leading preconstruction efforts, including for design-build and joint venture pursuits, and mentoring junior estimators. Additionally, this role supports business development by fostering relationships with clients, subcontractors, and vendors to increase bid opportunities. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and experience with industry-standard software such as AGTEK and HCSS HeavyBid are essential.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Lead internal and joint venture preconstruction activities to develop high-quality, competitive estimates and project schedules.
- Review drawings, specifications, and proposed site conditions; record findings and solicit field input to incorporate into final estimates.
- Analyze alternative solutions and construction methods to improve bid competitiveness.
- Present estimates to management and participate in bid reviews, strategy sessions, and negotiations.
- Prepare detailed earthwork and heavy civil construction cost estimates, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor pricing using AGTEK and HCSS HeavyBid.
- Review “take-off” quantities for accuracy and apply cost history data and advanced analytical calculations to ensure estimate quality.
- Identify project risks and uncertainties; develop and recommend mitigation strategies.
- Conduct post-bid analysis and participate in project hand-off meetings with the project management team.
- Assign estimating responsibilities and conduct progress check-ins with team members.
- Coach and mentor estimating team members to ensure preparedness for future roles and opportunities.
- Guide estimators to ensure adherence to company standards and personal development.
- Collaborate closely with engineers, project managers, field operations, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment of estimates with project goals and execution plans.
- Facilitate coordination with vendors and subcontractors to obtain competitive and compliant pricing.
- Build and maintain relationships with industry partners, vendors, and clients to support ongoing and future bid opportunities.
- Participate in client and partner meetings as necessary to support estimating and business development goals.
- Support cross-functional knowledge sharing and training within the department to broaden team capability and performance.
- Comply with all corporate policies and procedures in coordination with the VP of Estimating.
EQUIPMENT USE
- Telephone – Frequently
- Small Hand Tools – Frequently
- Copier – Occasionally
- Computer - Heavy
SOFTWARE USE
AGTEK Software, some CAD LT, Microsoft Office Suite, HCSS HeavyBid, Bluebeam, Adobe, etc.
QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION, AND/OR EXPERIENCE, LICENSES, AND CERTIFICATIONS
5 or more years’ experience, schooling, or background in any of the following: heavy civil estimating, takeoffs and takeoff softwares, construction management, civil engineering, engineering, or computer technology. Comprehensive knowledge of various heavy civil scopes of work, including earthwork/grading, asphalt paving, concrete flatwork, underground utilities, structural concrete, etc. Must have strong communication skills.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Pre-employment background screening investigation results that are acceptable to GCC at GCC’s sole discretion.
- Drug/alcohol test (negative test results).
- Background/security clearance.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
MENTAL DEMANDS
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from employees, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community. Ability to effectively present information to top management, employees, public groups, and/or boards of directors. Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret a wide variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The work is typically performed in an office environment, and at field sites and client facilities, which requires proper safety equipment and precautions; work may require some physical effort in the handling of materials, boxes, tools or equipment and climbing of stairs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
GCC is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
