United Contractors Midwest (UCM)
Estimator - Job Description
Summary
The Estimator develops competitive and accurate civil construction bid proposals for state, municipal, and private projects. Working in a team environment, the estimator interprets project documents, performs quantity take-offs, and prepares cost estimates using market conditions, historical data, site conditions, and internal guidance. Projects may include roadway construction, site development, structures, underground facilities, and other heavy civil infrastructure work.
Why UCM?
UCM is a family-owned, family-oriented heavy civil construction company, recognized as the largest contractor in downstate Illinois specializing in heavy highway projects. We operate on four pillars: asphalt, concrete, dirt, and bridge work, delivering quality infrastructure for state, municipal, and private clients. At UCM, titles don’t define you, people define their roles. We value team members who are self-driven and proactive, while fostering collaboration.
Responsibilities
- Monitor upcoming bid opportunities and maintain awareness of construction market conditions.
- Review and interpret project drawings, specifications, and bid documents.
- Perform accurate quantity take-offs and develop detailed cost estimates.
- Prepare and submit bid proposals in accordance with project requirements and deadlines.
- Attend pre-bid meetings and clarify issues with project owners or awarding authorities as needed.
- Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
- Evaluate alternative construction methods, production rates, and equipment utilization to improve bid competitiveness.
- Analyze addenda, change orders, and project risks that may impact project cost.
- Ensure compliance with EEO and DBE project goals.
- Maintain historical bid data and documentation.
- Communicate awarded project information to project managers and field personnel.
- Provide post-bid support including clarification requests and unit pricing adjustments.
Preferred Qualifications
- Degree in engineering or construction management, or equivalent experience in estimating or field heavy highway construction.
- Experience with heavy civil construction such as paving, grading, earthwork, or roadway projects. Field experience is valued.
- Familiarity with HCSS software, Trimble Business Center, and Microsoft Office.
- Knowledge of construction methods, equipment capabilities, and production rates.
- Strong organization, communication, and time management skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
Benefits & Compensation
UCM offers a compensation and benefits package designed to support our team:
- Competitive salary with bi-monthly pay and annual bonus opportunities
- 401(k) with company match up to 5%
- Company-paid life insurance, short-term, and long-term disability coverage
- Comprehensive health benefits including multiple medical plan options, prescription coverage, and wellness programs
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options
- Monthly vehicle reimbursement for business use
- Unlimited PTO and paid company holidays
- Office closure between Christmas and New Year
Equal Employment Opportunity
- UCM is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
