Estimator – Commercial Site Development

Position Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Construction Estimator to join our team, specializing in commercial site development and civil construction. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in estimating mass excavation, earthwork, and site grading for commercial development projects.

Experience estimating underground utilities, including storm sewer, sanitary sewer, and water main installation, is a significant plus. The successful candidate will be detail-oriented, possess strong analytical skills, and be able to develop accurate, competitive estimates while working closely with project management, field operations, subcontractors, and suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates for commercial site development and civil construction projects.
• Analyze project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and bid documents to determine project scope and requirements.
• Estimate quantities, production rates, labor, equipment, materials, subcontractor costs, and other project expenses.
• Develop takeoffs and estimates for mass excavation, earthwork, cut-and-fill operations, site balancing, rough grading, and finish grading.
• Evaluate existing site conditions, earthwork quantities, soil conditions, and hauling requirements.
• Solicit and analyze subcontractor and supplier quotes to ensure competitive and complete bid coverage.
• Identify potential project risks, scope gaps, constructability concerns, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Prepare bid proposals, scope clarifications, and bid documentation.
• Coordinate with operations and project management teams to review estimates, validate assumptions, and support project handoffs.
• Maintain historical cost data, production rates, and estimating databases to improve accuracy and consistency.
• Manage multiple estimates and bid deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy and organization.

Qualifications

• Previous experience estimating commercial site development, heavy civil construction, or related earthwork projects.
• Demonstrated experience estimating mass excavation, grading, earthwork quantities, and site preparation.
• Ability to read and interpret civil construction plans, specifications, grading plans, and earthwork reports.
• Proficiency in quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and construction estimating methodologies.
• Understanding of construction equipment, labor productivity, trucking, material costs, and field production rates.
• Strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with estimating software, Microsoft Excel, and digital takeoff tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience estimating underground utilities, including storm drainage, sanitary sewer, domestic water, and fire protection water mains.
• Familiarity with commercial site development projects such as retail centers, industrial facilities, warehouses, multifamily developments, and office parks.
• Experience with earthwork balancing, import/export calculations, unsuitable soil removal, and soil stabilization.
• Knowledge of erosion control, site demolition, aggregate base, paving, and other related sitework scopes.
• Experience with estimating platforms such as HCSS HeavyBid, AGTEK, Bluebeam, or similar software.
• Established relationships with subcontractors, material suppliers, and trucking providers.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a hands-on estimator who understands how commercial sitework projects are built in the field, not just how to calculate quantities from plans. They can accurately evaluate earthwork requirements, understand equipment and production costs, recognize potential risks, and develop competitive bids that support project profitability.

A strong background in mass excavation and grading is essential. Experience estimating underground utilities is highly desirable and will help the candidate contribute across a broader range of site development projects.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation based on experience.
• Opportunity to work on a variety of commercial site development projects.
• A collaborative team environment with direct communication between estimating, operations, and management.
• Opportunities for professional growth and increased responsibility.
• Benefits package, including applicable health insurance, paid time off, and retirement benefits.