Senior Estimator – Heavy Civil Construction (Southern California Region)

We are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to join our Southern California team, supporting both private and public works bids, including large-scale design-build and alternative delivery projects. This role is ideal for a results-driven estimating leader with deep expertise in heavy civil construction—including highways, bridges, underground utilities, grading, paving, and structural projects.

We believe people are the foundation of every successful project. Our team culture fosters collaboration, growth, and opportunity, where your experience and leadership directly contribute to the success of every bid.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the full estimating process for projects up to $300M, ensuring accuracy, competitiveness, and profitability.

• Review proposal specifications, drawings, soils reports, and existing site conditions to determine scope and constructability.

• Attend pre-bid meetings and oversee DBE and good-faith effort compliance.

• Coordinate and organize estimating teams for bid preparation, subcontractor selection, and cost analysis.

• Review and approve final bid packages for completeness and accuracy prior to submission.

• Evaluate project risks and opportunities, preparing risk matrices and reporting to senior management.

• Oversee subcontractor bid reviews, ensuring scope alignment and gap resolution.

• Lead bid closings and define strategic cost factors and final pricing recommendations.

• Support alternative delivery pursuits (design-build, CM/GC, progressive design-build).

• Mentor and train junior estimators, promoting consistency and excellence across the department.

• Collaborate with business development and maintain strong owner and partner relationships.

• Oversee post-bid contract handoffs, change orders, and cost-to-estimate comparisons.

• Champion continuous improvement within the estimating department.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or equivalent technical background preferred.

• 10+ years of heavy civil estimating experience, plus 3+ years of field experience.

• Proven ability to successfully lead and win bids up to $300 million.

• Advanced proficiency in Bid2Win, Bluebeam, Agtek, SketchUp, and Primavera P6 / SureTrak / MS Project.

• Strong understanding of project phasing, scheduling, and critical path analysis.

• In-depth knowledge of risk management, contract terms, insurance requirements, and labor agreements.

• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to perform effectively under pressure, particularly during bid deadlines.

• Valid driver’s license required.

Core Competencies

• Leadership & Team Mentorship

• Detail-Oriented & Results-Driven

• Strategic Thinking & Risk Analysis

• Strong Negotiation & Communication Skills

• Ethical Conduct & Professional Integrity

• Process-Oriented with Exceptional Time Management

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $140,000 – $170,000 (based on experience and qualifications)

• Comprehensive Benefits Package including:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP) or 401(k) with company match

  • Paid vacation, sick days, and holidays

  • Performance-based bonuses

  • Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates