Civil Estimator / Machine Control Modeler

Thompson Construction Group, Inc.; Sumter (SC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401(k) retirement plan

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Thompson Turner Construction Civil Sitework division is seeking a Civil Estimator/ Machine Control Modeler to prepare detailed quantity takeoffs, cost estimates, and 3D machine control models for self-performed civil projects. The role supports preconstruction, bidding, and field operations across multiple sites.

The ideal candidate will have 3+ years in civil estimating or earthwork modeling, proficiency in Civil 3D and AGTEK, and experience with Topcon systems to support field deployment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree in civil engineering, construction management, surveying, or related field preferred.
• 3+ years of civil estimating, earthwork modeling, surveying, or heavy civil construction experience.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D and estimating software.
• Ability to interpret plans, specs, and survey data.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for site development and civil construction projects.
• Develop accurate 3D machine control models and files for field deployment.
• Support project teams with preconstruction, bidding, and field coordination.
• Coordinate with field personnel to resolve model and machine control issues.

Skills

Earthwork estimation

3D construction modeling

Reading plans & specs

Strong communication

Detail-oriented

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Civil Engineering/Construction Management/Surveying

Tools

AutoCAD Civil 3D

AGTEK earthwork modeling

Topcon machine control

HCSS Heavybid

Job description

Thompson Turner Construction was founded in 2001 as a provider of preconstruction and construction services and has extensive experience constructing high quality buildings using a variety of delivery methods including Construction Management at Risk, Design-Build, and Integrated Project Delivery.

A division of Thompson Construction Group Inc., Thompson Turner Construction’s core focus is South Carolina construction, serving both public and private sector clients in a variety of markets including healthcare, commercial, office space, K-12, higher education, industrial, and hospitality. With offices in Sumter, Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville, our team takes pride in the planning and building of facilities that are often located in the communities where our employees work and live.

No matter how small or large their project, whether new construction or addition/renovation, Thompson Turner Construction partners with our clients to act as a long-term fiduciary advisor, concentrating on the details of each job while also remaining focused on the big picture.

Division: Thompson Turner Construction Civil Sitework

Position Description

The Civil Estimator/ Machine Control Modeler is responsible for preparing accurate quantity takeoffs, cost estimates, and 3D machine control models for self-performed civil construction projects. This position utilizes various systems to support preconstruction, bidding, project planning, and field operations. The ideal candidate combines strong estimating knowledge with technical expertise in earthwork modeling, grading, utility construction, and machine control technologies.

Job Responsibilities

• Estimating:
  • Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for site development and civil construction projects.
  • Analyze project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and bid documents.
  • Develop estimates for earthwork, grading, site utilities, storm drainage, paving, erosion control, and other civil scopes.
  • Identify project risks, opportunities, and value engineering options.
  • Assist with bid preparation, proposal development, and bid reviews.
  • Maintain estimating databases, production rates, and historical cost information.
• 3D Modeling & Machine Control:
  • Create and maintain accurate 3D construction models using Civil 3D and AGTEK.
  • Generate machine control files and surfaces for field deployment through Topcon systems.
  • Develop grading, excavation, utility, and paving models from construction plans.
  • Perform model quality control and validation against design documents.
  • Coordinate with field personnel to troubleshoot model and machine control issues.
  • Update models based on plan revisions, RFIs, and field changes.
  • Support GPS-guided equipment operations and site calibration efforts.
• Project Support:
  • Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, and site personnel during preconstruction and construction phases.
  • Assist with earthwork balancing, haul analyses, and constructability reviews.
  • Provide quantity tracking and progress measurement support throughout project execution.
  • Participate in jobsite visits as needed to verify project conditions and support field operations.

Job Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Surveying, or related field preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in civil estimating, earthwork modeling, surveying, or heavy civil construction preferred.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D.
• Experience with AGTEK earthwork modeling software.
• Experience with HCSS Heavybid software.
• Experience creating and managing Topcon machine control models and files.
• Strong understanding of grading, drainage, utilities, site development, and construction methods.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and survey data.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and estimating software.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy.
• Adaptability to thrive in a fast-paced construction environment.

Other Requirements

• Willing to work overtime as required to meet deadlines.
• Candidate will be required to pass a criminal background check based on job location/requirements.

Benefits

• We strive to provide a competitive compensation and benefits package. This includes but is not limited to medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), wellness programs and career development.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.