Chief Estimator Landscape Construction

Oakridge Landscape, Inc.; California; On-site; USD 95,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid Time Off

Paid Sick Leave

Company Vehicle + Gas Card

Job summary

Oakridge Landscape, Inc. is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead the estimating department for commercial landscape construction projects in California.

The role focuses on developing accurate, competitive estimates for irrigation, hardscape, site development, and public works, while collaborating with operations, purchasing and executive leadership. The Chief Estimator will lead bid strategy, manage risk, and drive profitability with a team of estimators.

Qualifications

• Lead the estimating department and oversee bid and preconstruction processes.
• Analyze plans, specs, geotechnical reports, grading plans, and contract documents.
• Pricing and prepare competitive, profitable estimates with trend analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and review of detailed cost estimates for commercial landscape projects.
• Prepare and submit competitive bids and budget pricing packages.
• Supervise estimators and preconstruction staff; develop standards and procedures.

Job description

Description

The Chief Estimator is responsible for leading the estimating department and overseeing all aspects of the bid and preconstruction process for landscape construction projects. This role requires extensive industry experience in commercial landscape construction, irrigation systems, site development, hardscape installations, grading, erosion control, and public works projects. The Chief Estimator develops accurate, competitive, and profitable project estimates while collaborating closely with operations, project management, purchasing, and executive leadership.

The ideal candidate is a strategic leader with a strong understanding of landscape construction means and methods, labor productivity, subcontractor management, and construction cost analysis.

Requirements

• Lead the preparation and review of detailed cost estimates for commercial landscape construction projects.
• Analyze project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, grading plans, and contract documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for landscape, irrigation, hardscape, site furnishings, and related construction activities.
• Evaluate project risks, logistical challenges, and constructability considerations.
• Prepare and submit competitive bids, proposals, and budget pricing packages.
• Participate in client meetings, pre-bid conferences, and project interviews.
• Collaborate with executives and operations leaders on strategic pursuits.
• Establish bid markups, overhead allocations, and profit strategies.
• Monitor estimating performance metrics and bid results.
• Analyze post-project cost data to improve future estimating accuracy.
• Support annual budgeting, forecasting, and growth initiatives.

Department Management

• Manage and mentor estimators and preconstruction staff.
• Develop estimating standards, procedures, and best practices.
• Oversee workload distribution and bid schedules.
• Conduct estimate reviews to ensure pricing accuracy and consistency.
• Support recruiting, training, and performance management efforts within the estimating team.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 10+ years of commercial landscape construction estimating experience.
• Extensive knowledge of: Commercial landscape construction, Irrigation systems & Hardscape construction.
• Site development
• Soil preparation and planting operations
• Erosion control systems
• Grading and earthwork operations
• Public works and prevailing wage projects
• Strong understanding of construction contracts, specifications, and bid documents.
• Experience pricing projects ranging from $100,000 to $20M+.
• Proficiency with estimating software and construction management platforms.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and technical documents.
• Valid California driver's license and ability to travel to job sites when necessary.

What we offer:

• Competitive salary, and performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunities for career advancement.
• Ongoing training and development.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Sick Leave
• Company Vehicle + Gas Card

Job Type: Full-time, Exempt Position

Annual Salary: $95,000.00-$110,000.00

Work Location: In person