Civil Estimator

Confidential; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Confidential seeks an experienced Civil Estimator to prepare cost estimates for commercial and residential projects. The role involves analyzing plans, obtaining pricing from vendors, and developing competitive bids while coordinating with project teams.

The ideal candidate has 3–7+ years of civil estimating experience, strong knowledge of site development, and proficiency with HCSS HeavyBid and other tools. Travel to site visits may be required as needed.

Qualifications

• 3–7+ years of estimating experience in commercial and/or residential civil construction.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, plans, and technical specifications.
• Knowledge of site development, excavation, grading, utilities, concrete, paving, drainage, and erosion control.
• Proficiency with estimating software such as HCSS HeavyBid, AGTEK, PlanSwift, Bluebeam, Bid2Win, or similar.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial and residential projects.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Prepare bid proposals and assist in contract negotiations.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits as required.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, architects, and clients during bidding.
• Monitor market trends and material pricing to ensure competitive estimates.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and project specifications.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Project management

Negotiation

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management / Civil Engineering

Tools

HCSS HeavyBid

AGTEK

PlanSwift

Bluebeam

Bid2Win

Microsoft Excel

Job description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Civil Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates for commercial and residential construction projects. The Civil Estimator is responsible for analyzing project plans and specifications, obtaining vendor and subcontractor pricing, and developing competitive bids. The ideal candidate has strong analytical skills, industry knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple estimates while meeting deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with company owners to drive operational excellence, business development, and long-term growth within a family-owned organization.
• Review construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents to determine project requirements.
• Prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial and residential projects.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Develop labor, equipment, and material cost estimates.
• Identify project risks, opportunities, and value engineering options.
• Maintain current pricing databases for labor, materials, and equipment.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, architects, and clients during the bidding process.
• Prepare bid proposals and assist in contract negotiations.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits as required.
• Review awarded projects with operations teams during project handoff.
• Monitor market trends and material pricing to ensure competitive estimates.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and project specifications.

Qualifications

• 3–7+ years of estimating experience in commercial and/or residential civil construction.
• Strong knowledge of site development, excavation, grading, utilities, concrete, paving, drainage, and erosion control.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, plans, and technical specifications.
• Proficiency with estimating software such as HCSS HeavyBid, AGTEK, PlanSwift, Bluebeam, Bid2Win, or similar.
• Demonstrated strong networking skills, with the ability to build and maintain productive relationships with clients, partners, and key stakeholders.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and negotiation abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet strict bid deadlines.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites when required.

Preferred Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred (or equivalent industry experience).
• Knowledge of local building codes and permitting requirements.
• Familiarity with scheduling software such as Microsoft Project or Primavera P6.
• Understanding of contract documents, subcontract agreements, and procurement processes.
• Experience with value engineering and cost-saving strategies.