Estimator

The Estimator will play a crucial role in accurately estimating project costs, preparing bids, and contributing to the overall success of our construction projects. The Estimator will collaborate with various teams to analyze project requirements, review specifications, and develop comprehensive cost estimates for heavy civil construction projects.

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Essential Job Functions (list):

1. Project Analysis:
• Review project plans, specifications, and other documentation to gain a thorough understanding of project requirements.
• Conduct site visits to assess existing conditions, potential challenges, and other factors that may impact cost estimates.
2. Cost Estimation:
• Prepare accurate and detailed quantity take-offs for materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor services.
• Utilize industry-standard estimating software and methodologies to develop comprehensive cost estimates.
• Analyze historical data, market trends, and industry benchmarks to ensure realistic and competitive estimates.
• Review take-off quantities prepared by others and provide guidance and oversight to the takeoff personnel.
3. Bid Preparation:
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to develop bid strategies and pricing structures.
• Prepare and submit well-organized and competitive bids within established deadlines.
• Participate in bid reviews and presentations to internal and external stakeholders.
4. Vendor and Subcontractor Management:
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier bids, ensuring compliance with project requirements.
• Negotiate pricing and terms with subcontractors and suppliers to secure favorable agreements.
5. Risk Assessment:
• Identify potential risks and uncertainties associated with project estimates.
• Work closely with project teams to develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans.
6. Documentation:
• Maintain accurate and organized records of all estimates, correspondence, and related documentation.
• Provide detailed and transparent documentation to support the basis of each estimate.

Additional Responsibilities:

1. Analyze and compile estimate data that impact the cost of labor, materials, equipment requirements, location and other factors to ensure a high quality and timely estimate.
2. Prepares preliminary construction schedules from engineering plans and specifications.
3. Reviews schedule submittals and prepares analysis, participates in the development of project phasing.
4. Prepares schedule forensic analysis of contract changes, prepares integrated Master Schedule
5. Review drawings, specifications and proposed project site conditions; record findings and solicit input from field operations to include in final project estimate.
6. Analyze alternative solutions and construction methods to increase competitiveness of the bid.
7. Review "take-off" quantities to ensure accuracy of data used in estimates.
8. Utilize existing cost history as a check to complete estimate.
9. Apply mathematical calculations requiring advanced analytical processes to ensure logically estimated costs are accurate.
10. Present estimate and participate in bid reviews with senior management to ensure accuracy and completeness.
11. Communicate with owners, subcontractors, public and private entities to ensure competitiveness.
12. Communicate estimate bid information to field operations at pre-construction meetings to ensure understanding of scope of job and critical means and methods of construction.
13. Develop and maintain business relationships to increase bid opportunities in the regional market.
14. Mentor junior estimating staff to ensure individual development and Spencer Construction standards are met.
15. Participate in and/or lead Design-build preconstruction services to ensure high quality, competitive estimates and schedules.
16. Participate in and/or lead means and method discussions, being the catalyst to drive creative thinking and innovative ideas that distinguish a successful estimate.

Requirements:

1. Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (preferred).
2. Proven experience as a Heavy Civil Construction Estimator, with a minimum of 7+ years in the industry.
3. Proficiency with Microsoft products and in using construction estimating and scheduling software (e.g., Procore, Bluebeam, HCSS HeavyBid, Primavera, & Trimble Business Center).
4. Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and industry best practices.
5. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
6. Effective communication and negotiation skills.
7. Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy in estimating.