Position Overview
CMC Partners are working with leading heavy civil contractor in the Sacramento region to identify a high-impact Chief Estimator with deep expertise in underground utilities.
This is a pivotal leadership hire for a well-established, growth-oriented contractor with a strong backlog of public works and infrastructure projects across Northern California. Our client is seeking a proven builder of teams and strategy, someone who can lead estimating operations, drive competitive bid positioning, and play a key role in shaping the company’s next phase of expansion.
We’re looking to connect with individuals who bring both technical excellence and executive presence. Those who understand the nuances of complex utility work and thrive in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the estimating department, including training, mentoring, and performance oversight of estimators and support staff
- Oversee the preparation of detailed cost estimates, budgets, and bid proposals for heavy civil and underground utility projects
- Analyze plans, specifications, geotechnical data, and other bid documents to develop accurate and competitive pricing
- Develop and implement bid strategies in collaboration with executive leadership
- Review and validate quantity takeoffs, subcontractor/vendor quotes, and pricing assumptions
- Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and clients
- Identify project risks and opportunities and incorporate them into estimates
- Participate in project handoff meetings to ensure smooth transition from estimating to operations
- Stay current with market conditions, labor rates, material pricing, and regulatory requirements in California
- Support business development efforts, including client meetings and proposal presentations
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (preferred)
- 10+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil construction
- 5+ years in a senior or leadership estimating role
- Strong expertise in underground utilities (wet utilities, trenching, shoring, pipeline installation, etc.)
- Proven track record of successfully bidding and winning public and private infrastructure projects
- Extensive knowledge of California DOT, municipal, and public works bidding processes
- Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., HCSS HeavyBid, Bid2Win, or similar)
- Strong understanding of construction methods, scheduling, and cost control
- Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills
Preferred Experience
- Experience working in the Northern California / Sacramento region
- Familiarity with union labor environments
- Design-build and alternative delivery experience (CMAR, progressive design-build, etc.)
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary (commensurate with experience)
- Performance-based bonuses
- Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision)
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
