Estimating Manager

3 Phase Line Construction Inc.; Aurora (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

3 Phase Line Construction Inc. in Aurora, IL, seeks an Estimating Manager to lead the estimating function for complex utility and infrastructure projects. You will drive cost estimates, manage a team of estimators, and partner with operations and leadership to ensure accurate, competitive bids.

The role emphasizes mentoring, process improvement, and collaboration across engineering and business development to support strategic growth and project execution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in construction estimating.
• 7+ years of construction estimating experience, preferably in utility/heavy civil markets.
• 2+ years in a leadership role overseeing estimators.
• Proficient with estimating software, spreadsheets, and takeoff tools.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, schedules, and contract documents.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of estimators in cost estimates and proposals.
• Oversee bids for utility infrastructure projects including electric transmission and distribution.
• Validate quantity takeoffs, pricing assumptions, and subcontractor quotes.
• Ensure estimates align with project scope and standards.
• Develop estimating procedures and templates to improve accuracy.
• Collaborate with operations and management for lessons learned.
• Participate in bid strategy meetings and go/no-go decisions.
• Analyze historical cost data and market trends for forecasting.
• Support value engineering and cost-reduction strategies.
• Ensure timely bids in a fast-paced environment.
• Assist post-bid handoffs to project teams.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Finance, or related field

Equivalent work experience considered

Tools

Estimating software

Spreadsheets

Takeoff tools

Job description

The Estimating Manager leads and oversees the estimating function for complex utility and infrastructure construction projects. This role is responsible for managing the preparation of accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates while driving consistency, best practices, and continuous improvement across the estimating team. The Estimating Manager works closely with operations, business development, engineering, and executive leadership to support strategic growth initiatives and successful project execution.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of estimators in the preparation of detailed cost estimates and proposals
• Oversee bids for utility infrastructure projects including electric transmission and distribution, gas, telecom, and underground construction
• Review and validate quantity takeoffs, pricing assumptions, subcontractor quotes, and risk assessments
• Ensure estimates align with project scope, contract requirements, and 3 Phase Line Construction standards
• Develop and maintain estimating procedures, tools, and templates to improve accuracy and efficiency
• Collaborate with operations and project management to incorporate lessons learned into future estimates
• Participate in bid strategy meetings, go/no-go decisions, and management reviews
• Analyze historical cost data and market trends to improve forecasting and competitiveness
• Support value engineering, alternative construction methods, and cost-reduction strategies
• Ensure timely completion of bids and proposals in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Assist with post-bid handoffs and transition meetings to project teams

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• 7+ years of construction estimating experience, preferably within utility or heavy civil infrastructure markets
• 2+ years of experience in a leadership or managerial role
• Strong knowledge of construction means and methods, labor productivity, and material pricing
• Proficiency with estimating software, spreadsheets, and takeoff tools
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, schedules, and contract documents

Preferred:

• Experience with electric, gas, telecom, or underground utility construction
• Familiarity with union construction environments
• Experience supporting large-scale, multi-million-dollar projects
• Professional certifications such as CCM, PE, or equivalent
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Collaborative mindset with a focus on continuous improvement

MasTec is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.