Chief Senior Estimator Public Works / Infrastructure/ Education

Moalej Builders; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

401K

401K 4% Match

Job summary

A leading construction firm in California seeks a Senior Chief Estimator to oversee the estimating department. The role involves managing cost analysis and bid strategy for public works projects, requiring over 10 years of experience and expertise in industry standards. Candidates must possess a degree in Engineering or Construction Management and have strong negotiation skills. This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, alongside a 401K with a match program.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of public works and municipalities project estimating experience.
• 5+ years of experience leading or supervising estimating teams.
• Proficient in industry-leading estimating software.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the estimating process for public works projects.
• Develop detailed cost estimates utilizing industry-standard software.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and clients.

Skills

Negotiation techniques

Cost control

Project management

Communication skills

Construction management principles

Education

Engineering or Construction Management degree

Tools

Procore

Smart Bid

Bluebeam

Primavera P6

Job description

Overview

A Senior Chief Estimator is a high-level construction professional leading the estimating department and responsible for accurate, competitive cost analysis, bid strategy, team mentorship, and ensuring profitability on large, complex projects. The role requires a strong understanding of prevailing wage requirements and involves managing the entire estimating process from initial scope review to final proposal, guiding junior staff, focusing on risk management and business development, and maintaining overall planning and management of estimating activities for public works, government‑funded, educational, and other construction projects.

Duties

• Lead and coordinate the entire estimating process for public works and educational construction projects from conceptualization through bid submission.
• Develop detailed cost estimates utilizing industry‑standard software such as Procore, Smart Bid and Bluebeam, ensuring accuracy and competitiveness.
• Analyze project plans, specifications, and contract documents to identify scope of work, potential risks, and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, subcontractors, and clients to gather pricing data, negotiate terms, and refine estimates.
• Manage bid packages, review subcontractor proposals, and perform value engineering to optimize project costs without compromising quality.
• Oversee cost control measures throughout project execution to monitor budget adherence and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure all estimating activities comply with contractual obligations, safety standards, and company policies while maintaining thorough documentation for transparency.
• Prove experience as an estimator on public works or government construction projects.
• Solid understanding of Prevailing Wage regulations and labor compliance requirements.
• Lead, review and sign off on all estimating activities for all projects.
• Lead thorough review of the contract plans, specifications, and other documents for the bid.
• Prepare weekly bid calendar and ensure timely completion of estimates.
• Supervise estimating department and personnel.
• Identify major and unusual items in RFQs & RFPs.
• Solicit quotations from major subcontractors and suppliers.
• Setup project & bids in Procore, Smart Bid.
• Review project plans, requirements and specifications.
• Coordinate job walks.
• Identify D/M/WBE requirements and prepare plans to meet the requirements.
• Develop clear writeups and documentation required for bids/SOQ / RFP type proposals.
• Prepare documents for bid and proposal submission.
• For Joint Venture bids, set up JV manual.
• Price up bid items and review with project team.
• Timeline equipment procurement and logistics.
• Provide assignments and monitor takeoff estimators.
• Maintain dialogue with executive team throughout bid process.
• Able to perform all estimator responsibilities.
• Prepare accurate quantity takeoffs and materials pricing.
• Determine labor and construction equipment costs.
• Prepare conceptual estimates.
• Meet and maintain bidding and work schedules.
• Submit requisitions for purchase of materials.
• Compare competitive trade bids.
• Review preliminary quotes and pre‑bid estimates with Project Manager.
• Secure all bid documents (bid forms and quote letters).
• Prepare subcontractor bid list and submit drawings to subcontractors.
• Participate in bid compilation on bid day.
• Assist jobsite staff with estimates after bid award.
• Perform post‑bid buyouts (if applicable).
• Maintain good relationships with suppliers and subcontractors.
• Supervise and train estimating staff (if applicable).
• Complete other responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

• Engineering, Construction Management or Architectural degree, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 10+ years of public works & municipalities project estimating experience.
• 5+ years of experience leading or supervising estimating teams.
• Extensive experience in construction estimating within public works, infrastructure or education sectors, with a strong background in commercial, heavy civil or institutional projects.
• Proficiency in industry‑leading estimating software such as Procore and Smart Bid; experience with Bluebeam is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in negotiation techniques to secure favorable subcontractor pricing and contract terms.
• Solid understanding of construction management principles, including site operations, scheduling, safety protocols, and contract administration.
• Proven ability to interpret complex construction drawings, specifications, and technical documents accurately.
• Strong skills in cost control, pricing strategies, and project management to ensure bids are competitive yet profitable.
• Experience with Procore, OST, Primavera P6, Drafting and computer skills.
• Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• 401K
• 401K 4% Match