Civil Construction Estimator

Magellan Construction Inc.; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Magellan Construction Inc. in San Jose, CA seeks a Civil Construction Estimator to prepare detailed cost estimates for wet utilities, demolition, concrete, grading, and paving. The role involves reviewing plans, performing take-offs, and developing accurate budgets for bids.

Collaboration with project teams ensures cost accuracy and strategic bid decisions on site. The estimator will maintain pricing databases, analyze quotes, and support cost-saving opportunities while communicating effectively

Qualifications

• Strong skills in interpreting civil drawings and project specifications.
• Experience in quantity take-offs and accurate measurement of materials and labor.
• Knowledge of cost management and budgeting for estimates and forecasts.
• Effective communication with project teams, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.
• Familiarity with estimating software and MS Excel or similar tools.
• Understanding of civil construction methods, materials, and industry practices.
• Analytical, organized, and time-management abilities with attention to detail.
• Experience as an estimator or in a similar civil/heavy construction role helpful.
• Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related discipline preferred, or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for wet utilities, demolition, concrete, grading, and paving projects.
• Review plans and specifications and perform quantity take-offs.
• Analyze subcontractor and supplier quotes to develop accurate budgets and bids.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and field teams to clarify scope and savings opportunities.
• Maintain cost databases, track market pricing, and support bid strategy.
• Communicate clearly with internal stakeholders to aid informed decisions.

Skills

Construction Estimating

Quantity Take-offs

Cost Management

Budgeting

Communication

Estimating software

MS Excel

Civil construction methods

Analytical thinking

Estimator experience

Education

Associate or bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Civil Engineering or related discipline

Tools

Construction estimating software

Job description

Company Description

Magellan Construction Inc. is dedicated to reshaping the Silicon Valley and Bay Area through high-quality wet utilities, demolition, concrete, grading, and paving services. The company focuses on delivering reliable civil construction solutions that support long-term infrastructure needs. Magellan Construction Inc. operates with a strong commitment to excellence, safety, and sustainability in every project. Team members collaborate to provide clients with dependable services that contribute to a resilient future. The organization values professionals who are motivated to support growth in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Role Description

The Civil Construction Estimator is a full-time, on-site role based in San Jose, CA. This position is responsible for preparing detailed cost estimates for wet utilities, demolition, concrete, grading, and paving projects. Day-to-day tasks include reviewing plans and specifications, performing quantity take-offs, analyzing subcontractor and supplier quotes, and developing accurate budgets and bid proposals. The estimator collaborates with project managers, engineers, and field teams to clarify scope, identify cost-saving opportunities, and support bid strategy. The role also involves maintaining cost databases, tracking market pricing, and providing clear communications to internal stakeholders to support informed decision-making.

Qualifications

• Strong skills in Construction Estimating, including the ability to interpret civil drawings and project specifications.
• Proficiency in Quantity Take-offs and accurate measurement of materials and labor for civil construction projects.
• Experience in Cost Management and Budgeting to develop and monitor project estimates and financial forecasts.
• Effective Communication skills for collaborating with project teams, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.
• Familiarity with construction estimating software and MS Excel or similar tools.
• Knowledge of civil construction methods, materials, and standard industry practices.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and time-management abilities with attention to detail.
• Previous experience as an estimator or in a similar role within civil or heavy construction; relevant field experience is beneficial.
• Associate or bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline preferred, or equivalent practical experience.