Estimator

Ames Construction, Inc.; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Ames Construction, Inc. is seeking an Estimator to prepare bids, cost estimates and proposals from Salt Lake City, UT. The role focuses on reliable quantity takeoffs, pricing and accurate estimate development in alignment with Ames values and workflows.

Responsibilities include collaborating with the estimating team, reviewing plans, and coordinating with vendors and subcontractors to optimize bid quality and competitiveness. Travel to project sites may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in construction, engineering, or construction management, or equivalent experience.
• Three or more years' experience in general engineering construction.
• Experience with HCSS Heavy Bid or similar estimating programs.
• Competent in Bluebeam, Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Knowledge of scheduling software and AGTEK or similar earthwork programs.

Responsibilities

• Estimating & Bid Preparation and collaboration with the estimating team.
• Review plans, specs, schedules, milestones, permitting requirements, and contractual obligations for incorporation into the estimate.
• Perform quantity take-offs using computer-aided tools and compute production-based cost estimates.

Skills

Teamwork

Self-motivation

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in construction/engineering or equivalent

Tools

HCSS Heavy Bid

Bluebeam

Microsoft Excel

AGTEK earthwork

Job description

Ames Construction has been building America for more than 60 years, and our people are the reason we continue to succeed. We are a full-service, heavy civil and industrial contractor building critical infrastructure, including highways, bridges, mines, dams, rail, and more. Our teams take on challenging projects that keep communities safe, supply chains moving, and the country connected. At Ames, we are Fueled by Family. That means we look out for one another, take pride in our work, and build strong relationships rooted in trust and respect. Guided by our core values of People, Team, Our Bond, Persistence, and Vision, we do what we say we will do, push through challenges, and deliver work we’re proud of. When you join Ames, you’re joining a company built for long-term success, where skilled people, strong teams, and disciplined execution come together to build careers and a better future.

The Estimator is responsible for preparing designated tasks for bids, cost estimates and proposals assigned, in accordance with Ames values and strategic plan. This position will assist with each assigned bid or proposal with performing quantity takeoffs, pricing and preparation of estimates.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Estimating & Bid Preparation
• Review and analyze plans, specifications, schedules, milestones, permitting requirements, and contractual obligations for incorporation into the estimate.
• Perform quantity take-offs using computer-aided tools.
• Compute production-based cost estimates in HCSS Heavy Bid software following Ames Estimating protocols.
• Identify risks and opportunities for assigned items.
• Assist in developing bid documents, construction schedules, and proposals.
• Solicit, analyze, and enter into bid software quotes from material suppliers and subcontractors.
• Prepare clarifications, inclusions, and exclusions for proposals.

Collaboration & Vendor Management

• Collaborate openly with the estimating team.
• Consult with vendors/subcontractors to confirm scope.
• Compare and validate quotes for coverage.

Site & Project Support

• Attend pre-bid site visits.
• Support transition of successful projects to Operations.

Team & Relationship Development

• Help recruit and develop the estimating team.
• Build relationships with clients, communities, and partners.

Operational Excellence

• Follow all estimating procedures to win work.
• Maintain confidentiality, meet deadlines, and prioritize safety.
• Demonstrate growing expertise across multiple work types (earthwork, underground pipe, concrete, etc.).

Qualifications

• Three or more years' experience in general engineering construction.
• Bachelor's degree in construction, engineering, or construction management, or equivalent experience.
• Ability to work in a team environment and be self-motivated.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with all levels internally and externally.
• Experience with HCSS Heavy Bid or similar estimating programs.
• Competent in the use of computer software applications including Bluebeam, Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Knowledge of - Scheduling software and AGTEK or similar earthwork programs.
• Effective communication skills, both written and oral.
• Ability to review and address technical issues with solutions in a timely manner.
• Time management, multitasking, and prioritization.

Working Conditions

• Location – This position will work out of our Federal Area office in Salt Lake City, Utah.
• Travel – This role will be expected to travel to project locations and Area Offices as needed.
• Office environment – extensive sitting at desk and computer; some standing, bending at the waist, stooping and reaching required; ability to lift 5-20 pounds occasionally.
• Construction site environment – physical ability to stand, walk, crawl, bend, reach and climb. Exposed to the elements and project site conditions.

This position requires ensuring compliance with CMMC, FAR, and Accounting Standards in all Federal efforts.

Ames Construction is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Ames Construction has been building America for more than 60 years, and the people who work here are the reason we continue to succeed. We are a full-service, heavy civil and industrial contractor building critical infrastructure, including highways, bridges, mines, dams, rail, and more. Our teams take on challenging projects that keep communities safe, supply chains moving, and the country connected. At Ames, we are Fueled by Family and Driven by Ownership. That means we look out for one another, take pride in what we build, and take responsibility for our actions, our results, and the long-term health of the company. Guided by our core values of People, Team, Our Bond, Persistence, and Vision, we do what we say we will do, push through challenges and deliver work we’re proud of. When you join Ames, you’re joining a company built for long-term success — where skilled people, strong teams, and disciplined execution come together to build careers and a better future.

Ames Construction is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.