Lead Construction Estimator

Bryan College Station Chamber of Commerce; Georgia; On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Bryan College Station Chamber of Commerce is seeking a Lead Estimator specializing in civil dirt work for Plantersville, TX. You will transform complex blueprints into precise cost evaluations and support client relationships and business development.

Responsibilities include bid packaging, site condition analysis, bidding strategy, and collaboration with project teams to ensure smooth transitions from estimate to construction. Strong takeoff and Excel skills required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of civil construction estimating experience.
• Ability to read blueprints and perform takeoffs.
• Experience with soil, earthwork, site prep, and grading.
• Proficiency with takeoff/estimating software (Bluebeam, AGTEK, HeavyBid, Earthwork 3D) and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Bid management: prepare, calculate, and submit bid packages for civil earthwork projects.
• Analyze soil/geotechnical reports and site conditions to identify risks and options.
• Develop bidding strategies based on material quantities, equipment, and costs.
• Collaborate with Project Managers and Superintendents for hand-off to field.
• Build and maintain relationships with general contractors and owners; follow up on bids.

Skills

Civil estimating

Site prep

Earthwork

Takeoffs

Bluebeam

Excel

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

Bluebeam

AGTEK

HeavyBid

Earthwork 3D

Excel

Job description

Job Description: Lead Estimator (Civil / Dirt Work)

Location: Plantersville, TX

Schedule / Working Hours: Monday – Friday | 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Position Type: Full-Time / Direct Hire

Compensation: Up to $100,000 / year (depending on experience)

Position Summary

Our client in the Commercial & Civil Construction industry is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Lead Estimator specializing in dirt work, excavation, earthwork, and site preparation in Plantersville, TX.

In this role, you will serve as the backbone of the bidding process—transforming complex civil blueprints into precise cost evaluations while playing a pivotal role in client relationship management and business development.

Key Responsibilities

• Bid Management: Prepare, calculate, and submit comprehensive bid packages for private and public commercial/heavy civil earthwork and site development projects.
• Site & Plan Analysis: Evaluate soil/geotechnical reports, grading plans, and existing site conditions to identify potential project risks, value engineering options, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Bidding Strategy: Develop competitive bidding strategies based on material quantities, equipment availability, fuel costs, and historical production data.
• Project Hand-Off & Collaboration: Work closely with Project Managers and Superintendents to ensure a seamless transition from the estimated bid stage to field construction.
• Sales & Client Management: Build and maintain relationships with general contractors, developers, and project owners; follow up on submitted bids and assist in closing new work.

Qualifications & Requirements

Required Experience & Technical Skills

• Experience: 5+ years of dedicated civil construction estimating experience, with specific expertise in site prep, earthwork, excavation, utilities, and grading.
• Calculated Precision: Strong technical understanding of soil swell/shrinkage factors, mass haul diagrams, cut/fill balances, and production rates for heavy equipment.
• Blueprint Reading: Advanced ability to read, interpret, and perform takeoffs from complex civil engineering plans, cross-sections, and project specifications.
• Software Proficiency: Hands-on expertise with industry-standard takeoff and estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, AGTEK, HeavyBid, or Earthwork 3D) alongside advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

Soft Skills & Competencies

• Analytical mindset with extreme attention to numerical detail.
• Strong negotiation, interpersonal, and written/verbal communication skills for client-facing discussions.

Education & Certifications

• Required: High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical field.

Ready to Apply?

If you are a proven Lead Estimator ready for a rewarding Direct Hire opportunity in Plantersville, TX, we want to connect! Apply online today.