Estimator

ThinkingAhead; Mather (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

ThinkingAhead is seeking an experienced Earthwork & Grading Estimator to join a Sacramento-area contractor’s team. The role involves owning estimates from start to finish for earthwork projects, with a strong emphasis on AGTEK takeoffs and bid accuracy.

On-site responsibilities align with a demanding construction pace and strict bid deadlines. The ideal candidate will have proven earthwork estimating experience, the ability to read civil plans, and the drive to grow the earthwork division.

Qualifications

• Proven experience estimating earthwork, grading, excavation, or heavy civil construction projects.
• Strong AGTEK experience is highly preferred.
• Solid understanding of earthwork quantities, production rates, equipment costs, and construction methods.
• Ability to read and interpret civil plans, specifications, and grading documents.
• Experience preparing complete estimates and competitive bid proposals.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of the estimating process.
• Experience with California public works and prevailing-wage projects is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates for earthwork, grading, excavation, and site development projects.
• Utilize AGTEK for earthwork takeoffs, quantity calculations, and cut/fill analysis.
• Review civil drawings, specifications, and project requirements to develop accurate bids.
• Calculate labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and production costs.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor pricing.
• Identify potential project risks, cost-saving opportunities, and bidding strategies.
• Collaborate with project management, operations, and leadership throughout the estimating process.
• Independently manage multiple estimates while meeting bid deadlines.

Skills

Earthwork estimation

AGTEK

Reading civil drawings

Bid proposal development

Independent work

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Tools

AGTEK

Job description

Earthwork & Grading Estimator

Rancho Cordova, CA | $110,000–$140,000 Base Salary | Full-Time, On-Site

About the Opportunity

An established Sacramento-area construction contractor is seeking an experienced Earthwork & Grading Estimator to play a key role in its growing earthwork division.

This is an opportunity for someone who knows dirt work, understands the numbers behind a successful bid, and wants the responsibility of independently managing estimates from start to finish.

The company has an established presence in the construction industry and is continuing to expand its earthwork and grading operations. The right individual will have the opportunity to take ownership of estimating activities and contribute directly to the division's long-term growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates for earthwork, grading, excavation, and site development projects.

• Utilize AGTEK for earthwork takeoffs, quantity calculations, and cut/fill analysis.

• Review civil drawings, specifications, and project requirements to develop accurate bids.

• Calculate labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and production costs.

• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor pricing.

• Identify potential project risks, cost-saving opportunities, and bidding strategies.

• Collaborate with project management, operations, and leadership throughout the estimating process.

• Independently manage multiple estimates while meeting bid deadlines.

Qualifications

• Proven experience estimating earthwork, grading, excavation, or heavy civil construction projects.

• Strong AGTEK experience is highly preferred.

• Solid understanding of earthwork quantities, production rates, equipment costs, and construction methods.

• Ability to read and interpret civil plans, specifications, and grading documents.

• Experience preparing complete estimates and competitive bid proposals.

• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and take ownership of the estimating process.

• Experience with California public works and prevailing-wage projects is a plus.

Compensation & Opportunity

• Base Salary: $110,000–$140,000, depending on experience.

• Opportunity to join and help grow an expanding earthwork and grading division.

• Direct interaction with company leadership.

• Significant ownership of the estimating process.

• Long-term career opportunity with an established construction contractor.

Interested in Learning More?

If you have a strong background in earthwork estimating and are interested in a position where your experience can make a direct impact, we'd welcome a confidential conversation.

Compensation:

$110,000-$140,000 per year