Estimator
Reports To:
President / Chief Estimator / Operations Manager
Position Summary
The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates and bid proposals for municipal utility, pump station, water/wastewater, site development, and heavy civil construction projects. The Estimator analyzes plans, specifications, and project requirements to determine labor, equipment, material, subcontractor, and overhead costs while helping Shaw Construction secure profitable work.
The Estimator works closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, vendors, subcontractors, and company leadership throughout the bidding and project turnover process.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Estimating and Bid Preparation
- Review invitations to bid, plans, specifications, and contract documents.
- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
- Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations.
- Develop complete project cost estimates and bid proposals.
- Analyze project risks and identify potential cost exposures.
- Prepare bid summaries and recommendation packages for management review.
- Ensure estimates comply with company standards and profit objectives.
Project Analysis
- Evaluate project schedules, phasing requirements, and site conditions.
- Identify special project requirements including permits, traffic control, environmental compliance, and utility coordination.
- Review geotechnical reports, existing utility information, and site constraints.
- Assess labor and equipment requirements for project execution.
Vendor and Subcontractor Relations
- Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers and subcontractors.
- Request and compare quotations.
- Negotiate pricing and scope clarification when appropriate.
- Maintain subcontractor and vendor databases.
Bid Management
- Manage bid schedules and deadlines.
- Coordinate preparation of bid forms, bonds, certifications, and supporting documentation.
- Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits.
- Submit bids electronically or in person as required.
- Track bid results and maintain historical bid data.
Project Turnover
- Participate in project handoff meetings after award.
- Transfer estimate details, budgets, and assumptions to Project Managers and Superintendents.
- Assist with schedule development and procurement planning.
- Clarify estimate assumptions and project risks during startup.
Cost Analysis and Continuous Improvement
- Maintain historical cost databases.
- Track actual project costs versus estimates.
- Analyze completed projects to improve future estimating accuracy.
- Update labor, equipment, and production rate information regularly.
- Assist management in evaluating market conditions and pricing trends.
Business Development Support
- Identify potential project opportunities.
- Assist in preparing qualifications packages and proposals.
- Support relationship development with owners, engineers, and general contractors.
- Participate in strategic planning and backlog forecasting discussions.
Required Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred.
- Equivalent construction and estimating experience may be substituted.
Experience
- Minimum 3–5 years of estimating experience in construction.
- Experience estimating utility, pump station, site development, water/wastewater, or heavy civil projects preferred.
- Experience with public bidding and municipal contracts preferred.
Knowledge and Skills
- Strong understanding of construction methods and means.
- Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and contract documents.
- Knowledge of labor production rates, equipment costs, and material pricing.
- Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
- Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Software Proficiency
- Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Construction estimating software.
- PDF markup and takeoff software.
- Project management software experience preferred.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Virginia municipal and utility construction projects.
- Familiarity with HRSD, local municipalities, VDOT, and public procurement processes.
- Understanding of pump stations, force mains, gravity sewer, water distribution systems, and stormwater infrastructure.
- Knowledge of prevailing wage and certified payroll requirements when applicable.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to travel to project sites and pre-bid meetings.
- Ability to walk construction sites and undeveloped terrain.
- Ability to occasionally lift plans, specifications, and equipment up to 25 pounds.
Employment Classification
Full-Time, Exempt
Benefits
- Competitive Salary
- Performance Bonus Opportunity
- Health Insurance
- 401(k) Plan with Company Match
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Holidays
- Professional Development and Training