Senior Estimator - Underground Utilities

Senior Estimator Underground Utilities

= DMV Region (DC / Maryland / Virginia)
=R Full-Time

About the Opportunity

A growing and reputable underground utility contractor in the DMV region is seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to join their team. This is a key leadership role within the preconstruction group, responsible for driving accurate cost estimates and competitive bids across a diverse portfolio of utility projects.

This organization is known for its strong project pipeline, collaborative culture, and continued growth across the Mid-Atlantic market.

Position Overview

The Senior Estimator will play a critical role in the bid and preconstruction process, working closely with operations, project management, and external partners to deliver accurate and strategic project pricing.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Bidding

• Prepare detailed and competitive cost estimates for underground utility projects (water, sewer, storm drain, etc.)
• Develop comprehensive bid proposals aligned with company profitability goals
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing

Project Analysis & Risk Assessment

• Review plans, specifications, and project documentation to define scope
• Identify project risks and opportunities, and develop mitigation strategies

Vendor & Relationship Management

• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and clients
• Source and onboard new vendors to strengthen bidding competitiveness
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions

Collaboration & Communication

• Partner with project managers, engineers, and leadership to align estimates with execution strategy
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and client presentations as needed

Reporting & Documentation

• Maintain detailed estimate records, assumptions, and cost breakdowns
• Support estimating handoff to operations with clear documentation and budget forecasts

Process Improvement

• Stay current on industry trends, pricing, and technologies
• Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating tools and processes

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in underground utility estimating, including senior-level responsibilities
• Strong understanding of utility construction (water, sewer, storm systems)
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specs, and contracts
• Experience working across multiple jurisdictions and specifications
• Proven ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously

Preferred Background

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field
• Experience with estimating software such as HCSS HeavyBid and Bluebeam
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification (preferred)
• Valid driver's license for site visits

Key Skills

• Strong analytical and mathematical capabilities
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

Work Environment & Schedule

• Primarily office-based with occasional field/site visits
• Exposure to active construction environments during site walkthroughs
• Standard Monday Friday schedule with additional hours during bid cycles
• Local travel within the DMV region as needed

Why This Role?

• Join a growing contractor with a strong backlog of work
• High-impact role with visibility across operations and leadership
• Opportunity to shape estimating strategy and processes
• Stable pipeline driven by increasing demand for infrastructure and utility work

Equal Opportunity Employer

This organization is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees.