Chief Estimator

Pop-Up Talent; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Performance-based incentives

Opportunities for professional growth

Collaborative work culture

Job summary

A leading construction firm is seeking a Chief Estimator to prepare accurate and detailed cost estimates for large civil projects. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of estimating experience in heavy civil earthwork and hold a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Responsibilities include analyzing project data, developing cost breakdowns, and collaborating with project teams. This is a full-time position offering competitive pay and performance-based incentives, with opportunities for professional growth in a safety-focused environment.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil earthwork and infrastructure projects.
• Strong knowledge of mass grading and haul planning.
• Proficient in reading civil and structural drawings.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate and detailed estimates for heavy civil projects.
• Review project plans and perform detailed quantity takeoffs.
• Develop detailed cost breakdowns and solicit quotes from suppliers.

Skills

Estimating experience

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Ability to manage multiple bids

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management

Tools

HCSS HeavyBid

Agtek

Bluebeam

Civil 3D

Job description

Chief Estimator

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BASE PAY RANGE

$200,000.00/yr - $200,000.00/yr

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POSITION SUMMARY

• The Chief Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, detailed, and competitive cost estimates for heavy civil projects, including mass excavations with shoring, site development, and large‑scale grading operations. This role requires a deep understanding of production rates, equipment utilization, and civil construction practice.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Review project plans, specifications, and geotechnical data to prepare complete and accurate earthwork estimates.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for excavation, embankment, mass haul, subgrade preparation, and related work.
• Analyze production rates, cycle times, haul distances, and optimize equipment spreads for efficiency.
• Develop detailed cost breakdowns for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
• Solicit and evaluate quotes from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Prepare comprehensive bid packages and proposals for public and private sector clients (DOT, Caltrans, municipal, and infrastructure).
• Collaborate with operations, field supervision, and project management to ensure bid accuracy and feasibility.
• Use estimating tools such as Agtek, HCSS HeavyBid, Bluebeam, Civil 3D, and internal cost databases.
• Participate in pre‑bid meetings, site visits, and constructability reviews.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field (preferred).
• Experience: Minimum 10 years of estimating experience in heavy civil earthwork and infrastructure projects.
• Strong knowledge of mass grading, haul planning, cut/fill balancing, and soil classification.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting civil and structural drawings, specifications, and geotechnical reports.
• Hands‑on experience with estimating software such as HCSS HeavyBid, Agtek, and Bluebeam Revu.
• Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple bids under tight deadlines.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive base salary + performance‑based incentives.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
• A collaborative, safety‑first work culture built on integrity and excellence.

We are an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from all qualified candidates, including minorities and persons with disabilities.

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level.

Employment type: Full‑time.

Job function: Engineering and Management.

Industry: Construction.