Cheif Estimator

RPM Utilities LLC; McKinney, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

RPM Utilities LLC seeks an experienced Chief Estimator to lead the estimating department and oversee bid preparation for utility construction projects in Texas. You will manage the estimating process from bid review through final submission, coordinating with operations, project management, vendors, subcontractors, and company leadership.

The role requires strong leadership, a deep understanding of underground utility construction, and proficiency in Excel and takeoff software.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7–10 years of estimating experience in underground utilities, heavy civil construction, or related field.
• Previous experience leading or managing an estimating team is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of underground utility construction, including water, sewer, storm drainage, and related infrastructure.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans, specifications and contract documents.
• Experience with estimating and takeoff software.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the estimating department and bidding process.
• Review plans, specifications, bid documents, and project requirements.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and other project expenses.
• Develop competitive bids for underground utility and infrastructure projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and review takeoffs prepared by other estimators.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing.
• Identify project risks, exclusions, assumptions, and potential cost impacts.
• Review historical project costs and production rates to improve estimating accuracy.
• Coordinate with operations and project management to confirm construction methods, manpower, equipment, and scheduling assumptions.
• Conduct bid reviews with company leadership before submission.
• Manage bid schedules, deadlines, and estimating workloads. Maintain estimating databases, cost information, and historical bid data.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project turnover meetings.
• Review awarded projects with operations to ensure a smooth transition from estimating to construction.
• Mentor and provide guidance to estimators and estimating support staff.
• Assist leadership with budgeting, forecasting, and strategic bidding opportunities.

Skills

Estimating

Leadership

Analytical

Cost analysis

Communication

Tools

Takeoff software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

RPM Utilities is seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead the estimating department and oversee the preparation of accurate, competitive bids for utility construction projects. This position will be responsible for managing the estimating process from initial bid review through final submission while working closely with operations, project management, vendors, subcontractors, and company leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the estimating department and bidding process.
• Review plans, specifications, bid documents, and project requirements.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and other project expenses.
• Develop competitive bids for underground utility and infrastructure projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and review takeoffs prepared by other estimators.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing.
• Identify project risks, exclusions, assumptions, and potential cost impacts.
• Review historical project costs and production rates to improve estimating accuracy.
• Coordinate with operations and project management to confirm construction methods, manpower, equipment, and scheduling assumptions.
• Conduct bid reviews with company leadership before submission.
• Manage bid schedules, deadlines, and estimating workloads.Maintain estimating databases, cost information, and historical bid data.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project turnover meetings.
• Review awarded projects with operations to ensure a smooth transition from estimating to construction.
• Mentor and provide guidance to estimators and estimating support staff.
• Assist leadership with budgeting, forecasting, and strategic bidding opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7-10 years of estimating experience in underground utilities, heavy civil construction, or a related field.
• Previous experience leading or managing an estimating team preferred.
• Strong knowledge of underground utility construction, including water, sewer, storm drainage, and related infrastructure.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans, specifications, and contract documents.
• Strong understanding of labor, equipment, material, and subcontractor costs.
• Experience with estimating and takeoff software.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Valid driver's license and ability to attend jobsite visits and pre-bid meetings as needed.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with municipal, commercial, subdivision, and public infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of Texas construction markets and subcontractor/vendor networks.
• Experience estimating projects involving TXDOT or other governmental entities is a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.