Estimator - Construction

MELS ELECTRIC; Wilmer (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Mel’s Electric, part of the Helix Traffic Solutions network in Wilmer, TX, seeks an Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates for public and private infrastructure projects. You’ll work with operations, accounting, suppliers, and leadership to shape profitable bids and successful project execution.

The role requires reviewing plans, performing quantity takeoffs, and developing labor, material, and subcontractor costs. Strong Microsoft Office skills and bid-process experience are essential.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and working with numbers.
• Demonstrated critical thinking when reviewing plans to identify scope risks and bid strategies.
• 1+ years in estimating (preferred).
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with coworkers, customers, and contractors.

Responsibilities

• Review project plans, specifications, contracts, and addenda.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and develop complete estimates.
• Coordinate bid submissions and proposals with operations and management.
• Analyze methods, crew requirements, production rates, and project risks.
• Prepare proposals, qualifications, and bid packages.

Skills

Read drawings

Microsoft Office

Critical thinking

Estimating experience

Interpersonal skills

Tools

HCSS

Estimating software

Job description

Posted Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 4:00 AM

Join Helix Traffic Solutions – Traffic Control for a Safer Tomorrow

About Helix Traffic Solutions

We’re not just placing cones—we’re rethinking the way traffic moves. Helix Traffic Solutions is a national leader in traffic control, work zone safety, and roadway infrastructure services. Through a network of specialized operating companies across the U.S., Helix delivers reliable, high-impact solutions that protect lives, support construction and maintenance projects, and keep communities moving safely.

About Mel’s Electric

Mel’s Electric is a proud member of the Helix Traffic Solutions network, serving Wilmer, Texas, and surrounding communities with expert electrical, signage, and lighting solutions that support safe and efficient roadways.

From construction through ongoing maintenance, Mel’s Electric delivers dependable, high-quality services designed to minimize disruption and maximize safety for drivers, pedestrians, and work crews. Our experienced team focuses on precision, reliability, and long‑term performance on every project.

Our services and capabilities include:

• Highway and roadway signage fabrication and installation
• Maintenance and repair of existing traffic systems and signage
• Electrical support services for roadway and infrastructure projects
• Installation and maintenance of streetlights and project-specific lighting systems
• Energy‑efficient, durable lighting solutions designed to improve visibility and safety

By combining skilled electrical work with a strong safety-first approach, Mel’s Electric helps ensure roadways and worksites remain well‑lit, compliant, and operating smoothly.

Why Work with Helix & Mel’s Electric?

We’re a people‑first organization with a mission centered on public safety and infrastructure reliability. When you join Mel’s Electric, you become part of a local Texas‑based team backed by the strength, stability, and career opportunities of the Helix Traffic Solutions national network. You’ll find:

• A strong culture of safety, craftsmanship, and accountability
• Hands‑on work that directly improves roadway visibility and safety
• Opportunities for training, advancement, and internal mobility
• The support of a national organization with the pride of a close‑knit local team

What to Expect

Our work is hands‑on, detail‑driven, and essential. Every role at Mel’s Electric plays a vital part in keeping roadways illuminated, traffic systems functioning, and communities safe. If you’re dependable, safety‑focused, and looking for a career with purpose, we’d be proud to have you on our team.

Job Description

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for public and private infrastructure projects. This role analyzes plans, specifications, and project requirements to develop complete labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and indirect cost budgets.

The successful candidate will work closely with operations, project management, accounting, suppliers, subcontractors, and executive leadership to support profitable project pursuits and successful project execution.

• Review project plans, specifications, contracts, and addenda.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs.
• Develop complete estimates including labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and indirect costs.
• Analyze construction methods, crew requirements, production rates, and project risks.
• Prepare bid summaries and management review packages.
• Support value‑engineering opportunities and alternative solutions.
• Solicit and evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations.
• Develop and maintain vendor relationships.
• Verify compliance of quotations with project specifications.
• Track lead times, quote expiration dates, and pricing changes.
• Assist with purchasing strategy and material forecasting for awarded projects.
• Proposal Development
• Prepare proposals, qualifications, clarifications, assumptions, and exclusions.
• Assist in assembling complete bid packages.
• Coordinate bid submission requirements and deadlines.
• Support customer and preconstruction meetings.
• Project Support
• Participate in project turnover meetings.
• Assist project managers with budgeting, change order pricing, and cost analysis.
• Support operations with production‑rate development and historical cost analysis.
• Review completed projects to improve future estimate accuracy.
• Maintain estimating databases, assemblies, and cost libraries.
• Help develop labor production rates and estimating best practices.
• Support implementation and utilization of estimating software platforms.
• Contribute to process improvements that increase efficiency and estimating accuracy.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications. (Required)
• Experience with HCSS products or other sophisticated bidding software, a plus
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite & working with numbers. (Required)
• Demonstrated ability to apply critical thinking when reviewing plans and specifications, identifying scope risks, and developing competitive bid strategies. (Required)
• Road construction operations or estimating experience. (Required)
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with coworkers, customers, and contractors. (Required)
• 1+ years in estimating. (Preferred)

Helix Traffic Solutions, LLC is an Equal Opportunity **Affirmative Action Employer**.