Lead Estimator - Data Center Utilities - Warrenton, VA

Lead Estimator

Join a rapidly growing data center specialty contractor. Our client is a well-established utility contractor specializing in underground utility installation and trenchless construction solutions for large-scale infrastructure projects. With more than 70 employees and annual revenues exceeding $50 million, the organization has earned a strong reputation for delivering complex work in the data center and power generation sectors. Due to continued growth, they are seeking a Lead Estimator to help drive estimating excellence and support ongoing expansion. The Lead Estimator will work closely with leadership to refine processes, improve bid accuracy, and contribute to the long-term success of the business. This role offers significant visibility and influence, making it an excellent opportunity for an experienced Lead Estimator looking to grow with a dynamic organization.

As the Lead Estimator, you will oversee the estimating function for underground dry utility projects while partnering with operations, project management, and field teams.

• Prepare comprehensive cost estimates for dry utility projects, including electrical, telecommunications, and gas infrastructure work.
• Review project drawings, specifications, and bid documents to develop accurate pricing strategies.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, and equipment.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations to ensure competitive and reliable pricing.
• Compile and submit complete bid packages in accordance with project requirements and deadlines.
• Analyze project budgets, identify potential cost risks, and recommend value-saving opportunities.
• Track actual project costs against original estimates to improve future estimating accuracy.
• Evaluate project risks related to site conditions, scheduling constraints, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and field personnel to ensure estimates reflect real-world construction methods.
• Maintain organized documentation of estimates, assumptions, revisions, and bid records.
• Support the continued development and improvement of estimating processes and procedures.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior estimating staff.

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.

The Successful Applicant:

• 10+ years of estimating experience within underground utilities, civil construction, or related infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of dry utility construction, trenchless installation, and underground utility systems.
• Proficiency with HeavyBid, Microsoft Excel, and Bluebeam.
• Experience preparing complex bids and estimates for large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to assess project risks and develop practical mitigation strategies.
• Effective communicator who can collaborate across estimating, operations, project management, and field teams.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• Ambitious professional interested in helping build and improve company processes.
• Leadership and mentoring capabilities with the ability to develop junior team members.

What's on Offer:

• Base salary up to $175,000, depending on experience
• 401(k) with 6% company match
• United Healthcare coverage with company-paid deductible
• Company vehicle and gas card for applicable field-based personnel and project management staff
• 2-3 weeks PTO
• Short-term disability coverage
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible scheduling with typical office hours of 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Opportunity for significant career growth within a rapidly expanding organization

Please apply to be considered for this position!