Water Estimator

Estimator – Heavy Civil / Earthwork / Structures / Roadways

Location : Offices in Orange County, Los Angeles County, and San Diego County

Salary Range : $68,000 – $145,000 (DOE)

Type : Full-Time

Position Overview

We’re seeking a detail-driven and analytical Estimator to join our Southern Region team. This role is responsible for preparing accurate, comprehensive, and timely cost estimates for heavy civil, structures, roadways, and earthwork projects across both public and private sectors.

The ideal candidate has strong technical expertise in take-offs, plan reading, and bid preparation for large-scale infrastructure work — including highways, rail, underground utilities, bridges, and paving. This position requires a balance of precision, collaboration, and commercial awareness to deliver competitive bids and profitable results.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Bid Development

Review project specifications, drawings, geotechnical reports, and site conditions to define the scope of work.

Attend pre-bid meetings and coordinate proposal requirements with internal stakeholders.

Prepare detailed quantity take-offs , cost breakdowns, and pricing for all self-perform and subcontracted work.

Identify risk factors, evaluate contract terms, and provide recommendations to the Chief Estimator and Division Manager.

Develop and track RFIs and clarifications during the bid process.

Maintain accurate files, cost databases, and historical bid data for reference and benchmarking.

Monitor post-bid activities and assist with contract procurement and turnover.

Coordination & Technical Support

Coordinate bid preparation efforts across project management, estimating, and administrative teams.

Collaborate with other divisions, subcontractors, and suppliers to confirm scope alignment and pricing accuracy.

Prepare budgets, purchase orders, subcontracts, and assist in the development of preliminary project schedules.

Support awarded projects through pricing change orders, value engineering, and cost tracking as required.

Client Relations & Team Leadership

Foster and maintain professional relationships with owners, subcontractors, and vendors.

Take an active role in business development and client communication during preconstruction and bid phases.

Mentor and train Junior Estimators or Interns , promoting best practices and technical proficiency.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering , or related field (preferred).

Minimum 3 years of estimating experience in heavy civil, earthwork, structures, or roadways.

Strong understanding of project phasing, means and methods, and risk analysis.

Proficient in reading and interpreting plans, specifications, and geotechnical reports .

Advanced computer skills, including :

Bid2Win (required)

Bluebeam , Agtek , SketchUp

Primavera P6 , SureTrak , MS Project

Familiarity with contract accounting , critical path scheduling, and time-impact analysis.

Strong written and verbal communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.

Valid driver’s license required.

Competencies

Analytical and solution-oriented thinking

Excellent time and project management skills

Detail-focused with strong mathematical aptitude

Clear communication and collaboration skills

Ethical and process-driven approach

Results and performance oriented

Compensation & Benefits

~ Base Salary : $68,000 – $145,000 (DOE)

~ Comprehensive Benefits Package : medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

~401(k) Program with employer contribution

~ Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holidays

~ Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) participation

~ Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates