POSITION SUMMARY
The Chief Estimator leads and manages the Company's estimating department, overseeing all bid activity, estimating staff, and strategic pricing decisions across the Company's project portfolio. This role serves as the senior technical authority on cost and bid strategy and is a key partner to executive leadership on bid/no-bid decisions and pursuit strategy.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The following duties are representative of the position and are not exhaustive. The Company may modify responsibilities to meet business needs.
Department Leadership
- Direct and manage the estimating department, including staffing, workload distribution, and department performance.
- Set estimating standards, processes, unit pricing databases, and software standards for the department.
- Recruit, develop, and evaluate estimating staff in coordination with the Director of Operations and HR.
Bid Strategy & Review
- Oversee preparation and final review of all major bids and proposals prior to submission.
- Partner with executive leadership on bid/no-bid decisions and strategic pursuits.
- Lead final bid reviews and pricing approval prior to submission.
Relationships & Market Intelligence
- Build and maintain key relationships with major clients, subcontractors, and suppliers.
- Analyze market trends, competitor pricing, and win rates to inform Company bid strategy.
Post-Award Support
- Support project handoff and post-award scope clarification between estimating and operations.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience
- 10+ years of estimating experience, including 3+ years in a department leadership or management role, required.
- Excavation, earthwork, or underground utility experience required.
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
Technical Skills
- Expert proficiency with estimating software (HCSS HeavyBid or similar) and cost databases.
- Deep knowledge of heavy civil construction markets, methods, and pricing.
- Valid Texas driver's license and clean driving record required.
Core Competencies
- Exceptional leadership ability; builds and manages a high-performing estimating department.
- Strategic thinker with strong executive communication skills.
- Decisive and detail-oriented; comfortable making final pricing and bid decisions under deadline pressure.
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