Earthwork/Material Take-Off Estimator

EWI Recruitment; Yorktown (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

EWI Recruitment seeks an experienced Earthwork Estimator to support civil/site development projects. You will interpret drawings, surveys, and terrain models to determine quantities and costs, and prepare comprehensive estimates.

Applicants should have proven experience in construction estimating or earthworks, with strong skills in plan reading and cost precision. The role requires independent work and collaboration with project teams to ensure accurate bids.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in construction estimating, quantity surveying, earthworks or take-offs.
• Ability to read plans, specs and topographical information with accuracy.
• Sound understanding of construction methods, production rates and cost principles.

Responsibilities

• Review tender documents and scope requirements.
• Prepare detailed earthwork, aggregate, concrete, asphalt, drainage and related take-offs.
• Calculate cut-and-fill quantities and assess disposal requirements.
• Develop labour, equipment, material, subcontractor and logistics estimates.
• Obtain and evaluate supplier quotations; maintain pricing databases.
• Document assumptions and exclusions and assist with bids and budgets.

Skills

Earthworks estimation

Quantity take-off

Reading plans & specs

CAD software

Cost principles

Team collaboration

Education

Technical qualification in construction estimating

Tools

Estimating software

Spreadsheet software

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Earthwork/Material Take-Off Estimator to support the preparation of accurate, competitive estimates for civil, site development, excavation, grading, and infrastructure projects. The successful candidate will interpret construction drawings, specifications, surveys, and digital terrain models to determine quantities, costs, and project requirements. This role is suited to a detail-oriented professional who can work confidently with technical information, manage multiple deadlines, and communicate clearly with project teams, suppliers, and subcontractors.

Key responsibilities include reviewing tender documents and scope requirements; preparing detailed earthwork, aggregate, concrete, asphalt, drainage, utility, and related material take-offs; calculating cut-and-fill quantities and identifying potential over-excavation, unsuitable materials, and disposal requirements; and developing labour, equipment, material, subcontractor, and logistics estimates. You will obtain and evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations, maintain pricing databases, document assumptions and exclusions, and assist with bid submissions and budget updates. The role will also involve comparing quantities against plans, identifying discrepancies or design risks, supporting value-engineering reviews, and coordinating with estimators, engineers, surveyors, and operations personnel to ensure estimates are practical and complete.

Applicants should have proven experience in construction estimating, quantity surveying, earthworks, or material take-offs, preferably within civil construction or site development. Strong skills in reading plans, specifications, and topographical information are essential, along with a sound understanding of construction methods, production rates, and cost principles. Proficiency with estimating, take-off, spreadsheet, and computer-aided design software is required; experience with digital take-off or machine-control platforms will be an advantage. You should demonstrate excellent numerical accuracy, organisation, problem-solving, and time-management skills, together with the ability to work independently and contribute effectively in a collaborative environment. A relevant technical qualification or equivalent industry experience is preferred, and a valid driving licence may be required for occasional site visits.