Estimator

Marks Clearing and Grading Inc.; Wendell (NC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Marks Clearing & Grading is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our preconstruction and estimating team, focusing on site-development and heavy civil projects. You will develop accurate estimates for earthwork, utilities, drainage, paving, and related scopes of work.

Responsibilities include reviewing plans, performing takeoffs, evaluating subcontractor bids, and developing bid strategy. Requires strong Excel and software proficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or a related field.
• 2nd item not used

Responsibilities

• Prepare complete and accurate estimates for site-development and heavy civil construction projects.

Skills

Estimating

Earthwork analysis

Construction methods

Collaboration

Education

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

Tools

AGTEK

HCSS HeavyBid

Excel

Job description

Job Summary:

Marks Clearing & Grading is seeking an experienced and motivated Estimator to join our preconstruction and estimating team. This position plays a critical role in identifying, evaluating, and securing profitable site-development opportunities throughout our market.

The Estimator will be responsible for developing accurate and competitive estimates for heavy civil and site-development projects, including clearing, mass earthwork, erosion control, storm drainage, water and sewer utilities, aggregate base, concrete, paving, and related scopes of work.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare complete and accurate estimates for site-development and heavy civil construction projects as directed by the Chief Estimator.
• Review plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, addenda, contracts, and other bid documents to develop a comprehensive understanding of project requirements.
• Perform and verify detailed quantity takeoffs for earthwork, utilities, storm drainage, erosion control, paving, concrete, and other civil scopes.
• Analyze earthwork quantities, cut/fill balances, haul requirements, material handling, and site logistics.
• Develop labor and equipment crews, production rates, durations, and associated costs based on anticipated construction means and methods.
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure complete scope coverage and competitive pricing.
• Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, project risks, opportunities, and potential value-engineering alternatives.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and conduct site visits to evaluate existing conditions, access, logistics, haul routes, material sources, and other factors affecting project cost.
• Develop bid strategies in collaboration with estimating leadership, operations, and executive management.
• Prepare estimate summaries, clarifications, exclusions, qualifications, and final proposals.
• Participate in final estimate reviews and clearly communicate assumptions, risks, and opportunities.
• Maintain accurate historical pricing, production data, subcontractor information, and estimating records.
• Participate in project handoff meetings to ensure a complete transfer of estimating assumptions, commitments, and project strategy to operations.
• Review estimated versus actual project performance and incorporate lessons learned into future estimates.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, engineers, owners, and other industry partners.
• Assist in mentoring and developing Junior Estimators and other members of the preconstruction team.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or a related field; equivalent heavy civil construction experience will also be considered. Years of experience can also be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 3–7+ years of estimating, project management, project engineering, or field experience in heavy civil or site-development construction.
• Demonstrated knowledge of grading, earthwork, underground utilities, storm drainage, erosion control, paving, and related civil construction activities.
• Strong understanding of construction means and methods, equipment capabilities, crew configurations, and production rates.
• Ability to independently read and interpret civil construction drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents.
• Experience with construction estimating, digital takeoff, and earthwork modeling software including AGTEK and HCSS HeavyBid.
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other construction-related technology.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with estimating, project management, field operations, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to spend time on job sites as needed.
• Must be able to sit for extended periods when working on estimates.