Estimator - Underground Utilities

J&L Construction LLC; Denton (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

J&L Construction LLC is seeking an experienced Underground Utilities Estimator to join our team in Denton, Texas. You will analyze plans, specifications, and project requirements to prepare accurate, competitive cost estimates for water, sewer, drainage, and associated concrete work.

The role requires 5+ years of estimating experience in underground utility construction and strong reading of civil plans, with oversight of bid proposals, cost controls, and value engineering opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of estimating experience in underground utility construction.
• Ability to read and interpret civil engineering plans and specifications.
• Experience performing quantity takeoffs and preparing detailed cost estimates.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills; excellent communication and time management.

Responsibilities

• Review project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for underground utility projects (sanitary sewer, storm sewer, drainage structures, concrete paving).
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations; prepare complete cost estimates including all cost factors.
• Develop competitive bid proposals and submit bids within deadlines.
• Coordinate with Project Managers to ensure smooth handoff after award and maintain pricing databases.

Skills

Estimating

Plan reading

Analytical skills

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

Excel

Word

Outlook

Adobe Acrobat

Job description

J&L Construction, LLC is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Underground Utilities Estimator to join our growing team. The Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for underground utility projects including water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, drainage, and associated concrete work. This position plays a critical role in securing new projects by analyzing plans, specifications, and project requirements while working closely with management, project managers, subcontractors, and suppliers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Review project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for underground utility projects including:
• Sanitary sewer
• Storm sewer
• Drainage structures
• Concrete paving and flatwork
• Excavation and earthwork
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Prepare complete cost estimates including labor, equipment, materials, trucking, subcontractors, overhead, and profit.
• Develop competitive bid proposals and submit bids within required deadlines.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project walkthroughs as needed.
• Identify project risks and develop value engineering opportunities.
• Coordinate with Project Managers and Operations to ensure smooth project handoff after award.
• Maintain current pricing databases for labor, equipment, and materials.
• Research market pricing trends and vendor relationships.
• Review bid results and perform post-bid analysis.
• Assist with change order pricing when requested.
• Maintain organized estimating files and documentation.
• Work closely with company leadership to identify future bidding opportunities.
• Ensure estimates comply with company standards and client requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of estimating experience in underground utility construction.
• Strong knowledge of:
• Sanitary sewer systems
• Storm drainage systems
• Earthwork
• Ability to read and interpret civil engineering plans and specifications.
• Experience preparing detailed quantity takeoffs.
• Excellent mathematical and analytical skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience estimating municipal and private underground utility projects.
• Knowledge of Texas DOT (TxDOT), municipalities, and local utility district specifications.
• Experience with unit price and lump sum bidding.
• Familiarity with public bid procurement processes.
• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Civil Engineering, or related field (required).

Software Experience

Preferred experience with one or more of the following:

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Outlook
• Adobe Acrobat

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to interpret construction drawings and specifications
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to collaborate effectively with field personnel and management
• Professional communication with owners, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while preparing estimates.
• Ability to visit construction sites and navigate uneven terrain.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to travel to project sites and pre-bid meetings as required.
• Office environment with occasional field visits.
• Fast-paced environment with multiple project deadlines.
• Occasional overtime may be required during peak bidding periods.