Civil Estimator

The Civil Estimator professional is responsible for winning new work by developing accurate, competitive proposals for civil construction and drilling projects while building and maintaining strong client relationships. This role owns the estimating process from initial inquiry through contract award, works closely with the Project Superintendent to ensure seamless bid-to-build handoff, and actively pursues new business opportunities with telecommunications carriers, tower companies, general contractors, and direct clients. Reports directly to company ownership.

• Lead estimating for civil construction and cell tower drilling projects ($50K–$2M+)
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from plans, specs, and site assessments
• Develop complete cost estimates including labor, equipment, materials, subs, and markup
• Build and maintain estimating databases (unit costs, production rates, historical data)
• Price foundation drilling (caissons, auger-cast, drilled piers), concrete, sitework, and utilities
• Prepare proposals, scopes of work, and bid submissions
• Evaluate subcontractor quotes and integrate into pricing strategy
• Analyze risk factors (soil, access, schedule) and apply appropriate contingencies
• Present proposals and negotiate scope, pricing, and contract terms

• Identify and pursue new work in telecom, civil, and infrastructure markets
• Build relationships with carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile), tower companies, and GCs
• Conduct sales calls, attend industry events, and generate leads
• Respond to RFPs, bid invites, and direct client requests
• Maintain and manage CRM pipeline through full sales cycle
• Serve as primary point of contact for preconstruction inquiries
• Develop repeat client relationships and strategic partnerships
• Represent the company at industry events and associations

• Visit job sites to evaluate conditions, access, and logistics
• Identify constraints (soil, utilities, environmental, access)
• Coordinate with engineers, clients, and stakeholders during preconstruction
• Develop preliminary work plans and schedules for awarded projects
• Lead bid-to-build handoff

• Track market pricing, competitor activity, and industry trends
• Analyze win/loss rates and refine estimating strategy
• Compare estimated vs actual costs to improve accuracy
• Capture lessons learned with field teams
• Identify new service offerings and growth opportunities
• Stay current on telecom and infrastructure developments

• Coordinate with Project Superintendent on scheduling and resources
• Report to ownership on pipeline, win rates, and market insights
• Support change order pricing on active projects
• Maintain organized estimate files and cost history
• Participate in leadership meetings and planning

Required:

• 7+ years of construction estimating experience (civil, sitework, or heavy construction)
• Proven track record of winning work in competitive bid environments
• Strong knowledge of civil construction methods and materials
• Experience with drilling, concrete, earthwork, and utilities
• Advanced skills in estimating software (HCSS/HeavyBid or similar) and Excel
• Ability to read and interpret plans, specs, and geotechnical reports
• Strong communication and client-facing skills
• Business development mindset with comfort in sales activities
• Valid driver’s license for site visits

• Experience in telecom or tower construction
• Existing relationships with carriers, tower companies, or GCs
• Ability to operate independently and drive revenue growth