Construction Estimator: Bid-Ready Cost & Takeoff Expert

Knife River Corporation; Bemidji (MN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Savings and Flexible Spending

401(k) with Company Match

Profit Sharing

Paid Time Off

Paid Sick Time

8 Paid Holidays

Company Paid Life and AD&D Insurance

Short-term Disability

Employee Assistance Program

Years of Service Recognition

Voluntary Life Insurance

Critical Illness Plan

Hospital Indemnity

Job summary

Knife River Corporation in Bemidji, MN is seeking an Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates for construction projects by analyzing blueprints, specs, and proposals. This on-site role collaborates with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams to develop detailed labor, material, equipment, and time estimates.

Typical schedule is Monday–Friday, with potential Saturdays, and some travel for site visits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in estimation or equivalent construction experience.
• Proficiency in MS Office; HCSS experience preferred.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in a team environment.
• Flexible shifts, overtime, possible nights and some Saturdays.

Responsibilities

• Analyze blueprints, specs, proposals to prepare cost estimates for construction projects.
• Review data, vendor quotes, subcontractor pricing, and internal data to determine cost factors and risk.
• Prepare detailed, itemized cost breakdowns and bid documentation.
• Consult with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams to clarify scope and pricing.
• Calculating earthwork take-offs and 2D hard surface take-offs.
• Coordinate estimating activities for bid opportunities and ensure bid deadlines.
• Participate in bid reviews and handoff meetings, communicating scope and risks clearly.
• Troubleshoot issues related to scope, material availability, or cost variances.
• Maintain professionalism in high-pressure, deadline-driven environments; travel as needed.
• Support operations throughout construction to closeout and follow up with clients.
• Ensure regulatory compliance (DOT, MSHA, OSHA, EPA, DNR) and safety practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Analytical skills

Takeoffs

Communication

Time management

Estimating software

Mathematical proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in estimation

Tools

HCSS

MS Office

Job description

Knife River Corporation in Bemidji, MN is seeking an Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates for construction projects by analyzing blueprints, specs, and proposals. This on-site role collaborates with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams to develop detailed labor, material, equipment, and time estimates.

Typical schedule is Monday–Friday, with potential Saturdays, and some travel for site visits.