Estimator - Construction

Five Star Infrastructure Services, dBA InterCon/Five Star Energy Services/M&C Utility; Waukesha (WI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Five Star Energy Services is seeking an Estimator to prepare accurate, competitive cost estimates for underground utility construction projects. You will review plans, specs, and bid documents, develop detailed numbers, and coordinate with operations and leadership to align with project objectives.

The role requires 3+ years of estimating experience, strong Excel and estimating software skills, and the ability to analyze risks, costs, and constructability factors.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of estimating experience in underground utility construction or related field.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and utility plans.
• Knowledge of underground utility construction methods: telecommunications, electric, water/sewer, gas.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and estimating software.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Review project plans, specs, bid documents to determine scope and estimate requirements.
• Prepare complete cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and indirect costs.
• Develop detailed bid proposals and supporting documentation.
• Coordinate with project managers, field operations, and leadership during estimate development.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving alternatives.

Skills

Estimating experience

Underground utility construction know‑

Interpretation of drawings/ specs

Quantities takeoffs and cost analysis

Analytical, organizational, problem‑S

Education

Associate's degree in Construction Management or related field

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering

Tools

Excel

Adobe Acrobat/Bluebeam

Estimating software (B2W/HeavyBid)

Job description

Company Overview

Five Star Energy Services is dedicated to providing Turn-key utility construction services that are founded on safety, quality, and the ability to adapt. We pride ourselves on being a value-added contractor that adapts quickly and effectively to our customers' needs.

Our team is what makes us. We have over 1800 employees that pride themselves on customer service and safely getting projects completed. Our employees tackle some of the toughest projects in the industry while keeping safety and quality at the forefront. This makes our team a truly professional group that sets us apart from our competition.

Position Summary

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for underground utility construction projects. This role evaluates project plans, specifications, labor requirements, equipment needs, subcontractor pricing, and material costs to develop detailed proposals and bid packages. The Estimator works closely with operations, project management, and leadership teams to ensure estimates align with project requirements and company objectives.

Essential Functions

• Review project plans, drawings, specifications, bid documents, and contract requirements to determine project scope and estimate requirements.
• Prepare complete cost estimates for underground utility projects including labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and associated indirect costs.
• Analyze project risks, site conditions, schedules, and constructability factors that may impact project costs.
• Solicit and evaluate pricing from vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and calculations for labor, material, and equipment requirements.
• Develop detailed bid proposals and supporting documentation.
• Coordinate with project managers, field operations, engineering teams, and leadership during estimate development.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project walkthroughs as required.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving alternatives.
• Maintain accurate estimating databases and historical cost information.
• Track awarded and non-awarded projects to improve estimating accuracy.
• Assist with project handoff meetings to operations after project award.
• Ensure all estimates comply with company standards and customer requirements.
• Support contract review and scope clarification activities.
• Maintain awareness of market conditions, material pricing trends, labor availability, and industry changes.

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.
• 3+ years of estimating experience in underground utility construction or related construction industry.
• Knowledge of underground utility construction methods, including: Telecommunications, Electric utilities, Water and sewer systems, or Gas utilities
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and utility plans.
• Experience performing quantity takeoffs and cost analysis.
• Strong understanding of labor production rates and construction equipment capabilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Experience using estimating software and project management systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• Experience with municipal, utility, or communications construction projects.
• Knowledge of union and non-union labor environments.
• Experience with Adobe Acrobat, Bluebeam, or other takeoff software
• Experience with estimating platforms such as B2W, HeavyBid, etc...