Construction Estimator

RIPPLE EFFECT CONSULTING LLC; Oakdale (MN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

401(k) matching

Competitive salary

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Ripple Effect Consulting LLC in Minnesota is seeking a detail-oriented Construction Estimator to join our growing team. The Estimator will prepare accurate, competitive cost estimates for heavy civil projects including geotechnical work and pipeline rehabilitation, collaborating with project managers, engineers, subcontractors, and field crews.

The role emphasizes accuracy, market awareness, and timely bid proposals, with responsibilities spanning takeoffs, plan review, subcontractor quotes,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• 3+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil, infrastructure, underground construction, geotechnical, or specialty construction preferred.
• Experience preparing estimates for public and private sector projects.
• Ability to interpret construction specifications and contract documents.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel.

Responsibilities

• Perform quantity takeoffs and prepare comprehensive cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and self-performed work.
• Review plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and bid documents to determine project scope and requirements.
• Solicit, evaluate, and analyze subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Develop bid proposals, schedules, clarifications, and value engineering recommendations.
• Identify project risks, opportunities, and constructability concerns during the estimating process.
• Collaborate with operations, project management, and engineering teams to ensure accurate project assumptions.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and client meetings as required.
• Maintain estimating databases, historical cost information, and bid documentation.
• Assist in project handoff meetings to ensure a smooth transition from estimating to operations.
• Stay informed of market conditions, labor rates, material pricing, and industry trends.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the estimating department.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical thinking

Strong math skills

Communication skills

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering

Tools

Excel

Job description

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Construction Estimator to join our growing team. The Estimator plays a critical role in preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for heavy civil construction projects, including geotechnical work, underground construction, pipeline rehabilitation, dam and hydroelectric construction, structural rehabilitation, and design-build projects. This position works closely with project managers, engineers, subcontractors, suppliers, and field operations to develop winning proposals while supporting the commitment to safety, quality, innovation, and client satisfaction.

Essential Responsibilities

• Perform quantity takeoffs and prepare comprehensive cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and self-performed work.
• Review plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and bid documents to determine project scope and requirements.
• Solicit, evaluate, and analyze subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Develop bid proposals, schedules, clarifications, and value engineering recommendations.
• Identify project risks, opportunities, and constructability concerns during the estimating process.
• Collaborate with operations, project management, and engineering teams to ensure accurate project assumptions.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and client meetings as required.
• Maintain estimating databases, historical cost information, and bid documentation.
• Assist in project handoff meetings to ensure a smooth transition from estimating to operations.
• Stay informed of market conditions, labor rates, material pricing, and industry trends.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the estimating department.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• 3+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil, infrastructure, underground construction, geotechnical, or specialty construction preferred.
• Experience preparing estimates for public and private sector projects.
• Ability to interpret construction specifications and contract documents.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.