Lead Estimator

Position Summary

: The Lead Estimator is responsible for overseeing the estimating department and leading the development of accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates for heavy civil, earthwork, and infrastructure construction projects. This role requires a deep understanding of civil construction practices, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects and team members. The Lead Estimator plays a critical role in securing profitable work and supporting project success from initial bid through handoff to operations.

Key Roles / Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the estimating team to prepare detailed cost estimates for a variety of heavy civil and earthwork construction projects.
• Analyze project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
• Identify and quantify cost factors such as production time, materials, and labor expenses.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to collect input and validate estimates.
• Develop and maintain unit pricing databases, historical cost data, and estimating templates.
• Ensure bid packages are complete, accurate, and competitive in alignment with company goals and client expectations.
• Lead bid strategy meetings and ensure thorough risk analysis for each project.
• Review and approve all estimates and final bids prior to submission.
• Build relationships with clients, vendors, and subcontractors to ensure reliable pricing and project intelligence.
• Maintain awareness of market conditions, labor and material pricing trends, and competitor activities.
• Support handoff to project management by providing complete bid documentation and scope clarity.
• Mentor and develop junior estimators, ensuring consistency and growth in the estimating team.

Required Education, Experience, and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
• 7+ years of estimating experience in the heavy civil, dirt work, or earthmoving industry, including at least 3 years in a leadership or senior estimator role.
• Strong knowledge of grading, excavation, site prep, utilities, and related civil construction scopes.
• Proficiency in estimating software (, HCSS HeavyBid, Agtek, Bluebeam, or similar).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to lead a team and coordinate with cross-functional departments.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Working Conditions:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
• Positions self to install equipment, including under desks.
• Moves throughout the building to access files.
• Must be able to comprehend and follow written and oral instructions.
• Must be able to complete tasks even with frequent interruptions.
• Must be able to use discretion and independent judgment as needed.
• Must be able to speak clearly on the phone and to fellow workers.

#LI-ONSITE #LI-BN1 #INTERSTATEEARTHWORKS

This job description should not be interpreted as an exhaustive list of responsibilities or as an employment agreement between the employer and the employee. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification and are subject to change as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. Any essential functions of this position will be evaluated as necessary should an employee/applicant be unable to perform the functions or requirements due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the employee/applicant when possible.

I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of this position and have had the opportunity to ask my supervisor about any points I did not understand. I hereby state that I can perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.