Body shop estimator Jobs in San Diego, CA

Estimator Heavy Civil Construction

Location: San Diego Area Salary Range: $80,000 $150,000 (based on experience and qualifications) Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates

About the Company

We are a well-established heavy civil contractor with over 120 years of proven success delivering high-quality infrastructure and public works projects across California. Our reputation is built on safety, integrity, and excellence, backed by a team of dedicated professionals committed to innovation and continuous improvement.

We take pride in fostering a collaborative, supportive, and growth-oriented culture where employees are empowered to develop their skills, take initiative, and advance their careers. Joining our team means being part of a company that values people as much as performance.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Estimator to join our San Diego Area team. This role is responsible for developing accurate and timely estimates for both public and private works projects, ensuring competitiveness, profitability, and alignment with company standards.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in heavy civil estimating, a solid understanding of earthwork, grading, paving, roadways, utilities, and concrete construction, and the ability to lead estimates for bids up to $75 million.

Key Responsibilities

• Review proposal specifications, drawings, soils reports, and site conditions to determine the full scope of work.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and prepare pre-bid RFIs before specification cutoff dates.
• Solicit subcontractor and vendor bids to ensure coverage across all scopes of work.
• Coordinate bid scopes with other divisions and subcontractors.
• Prepare detailed takeoffs and cost estimates for self-performed and subcontracted work.
• Maintain documentation and backup data for all estimate figures.
• Interface with owners and other contractors to provide engineering and cost data on project feasibility.
• Participate in project startup and estimate handoff meetings to ensure accurate budgeting.
• Lead bid closings and assist in post-bid reviews and contract procurement.
• Prepare change orders, addendums, and cost revisions as needed.
• Mentor and train junior estimating staff and support continuous process improvements.
• Support alternative delivery pursuits (Design-Build, CM/GC, etc.) and B2W software management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent technical training and experience).
• Minimum 5+ years of estimating experience, including at least 1 year of field experience.
• Proven ability to lead estimates for bids up to $75 million.
• Strong understanding of construction sequencing, critical path, and project staffing.
• Proficiency in estimating and scheduling software: Bid2Win (B2W), Agtek, SureTrak, Primavera P6, MS Project, Bluebeam, SketchUp.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Familiarity with contract accounting and cost control systems.
• Valid driver's license required.

Core Competencies

• Collaboration and teamwork
• Detail-oriented and analytical thinking
• Results-driven and process-focused
• Effective written and verbal communication
• Time management and organization
• Negotiation and problem-solving
• Ethical conduct and accountability
• Strong applied mathematical skills

Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to sit for extended periods.
• Occasionally required to stand and walk at job sites.
• Must be able to lift and move up to 20 lbs.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary $68,640 $145,000, depending on experience.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) participation.
• 401(k) program with company match.
• Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays.
• Performance-based incentives and career development opportunities.
• Relocation assistance available for candidates outside the local area.

Why Join Us

Join a reputable, employee-owned construction firm that values excellence, teamwork, and professional growth. You'll work alongside some of the industry's best professionals on challenging and rewarding projects that shape the future of California's infrastructure.