Lead Designer and Estimator

GeoStabilization International®; Erie (Erie County); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading geohazard mitigation firm is seeking a Lead Estimator & Designer in Erie, CO. This role involves designing and estimating commercial and industrial fencing and gate systems. The ideal candidate has 5-10 years of experience in the field, proficiency in CAD software, and strong attention to detail. Opportunities for leadership and collaboration with various teams are a key aspect of the position.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of estimating or design experience in fencing, gate systems, or civil construction.
• Proven success estimating self-performed scopes.
• Ability to translate engineered drawings into installation plans.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and estimating process for fencing and gate/access control.
• Interpret engineering drawings and develop optimal designs.
• Create design drawings for submittals and proposals.

Skills

Estimating or design experience

Expertise in commercial/industrial fence and gate design

Proficiency with Bluebeam

Advanced Microsoft Excel skills

Ability to manage multiple bids

Tools

AutoCAD

Bluebeam

CAD software

Job description

Overview

RoadGuard is a division of GeoStabilization International (GSI), the leading geohazard mitigation and critical infrastructure protection firm in North America. RoadGuard focuses on high-integrity guardrail, fencing, and automated gate access systems that safeguard roadways, industrial sites, and transportation corridors. Our work protects people and critical infrastructure in some of the most challenging and sensitive environments. Our passion is to innovate and implement optimized solutions that protect people and improve infrastructure.

The Opportunity

We’re hiring a Lead Estimator & Designer to drive estimating strategy, system design, and bid execution across all commercial and industrial fencing and gate/access system projects in the Western U.S. This is a mission-critical, succession-track role with direct visibility to executive leadership. You’ll be the go-to expert for fence and gate system scoping, cost modeling, and engineered solutioning—ensuring every project we pursue is both profitable and protectively excellent.

You’ll report directly to the Regional GM and collaborate across operations, business development, and field teams to shape scalable solutions and winning proposals. Success in this role unlocks future leadership opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end design and estimating process for commercial and industrial fencing and gate/access control scopes: chain link, anti-climb, high-security, wildlife, sound barrier, manual and automated gates, and DOT applications.
• Interpret engineering drawings, topographic maps, and technical specifications to develop optimal fence and gate system designs and layouts.
• Own material takeoffs, labor estimates, crew production rate modeling, and subcontractor integration.
• Partner with sales and BD teams to assess site conditions and develop accurate, field-ready bids.
• Create design drawings (AutoCAD, Bluebeam, or equivalent) for submittals, installations, and proposals.
• Collaborate with Project Managers to refine construction methods and value-engineering opportunities.
• Coordinate with suppliers and specialty subcontractors for gate operators, card readers, safety loops, and integrated access components.
• Drive continuous improvement in estimating tools, cost databases, and lessons-learned feedback loops.

Must-Haves

• 5–10 years of estimating or design experience in fencing, gate systems, guardrail, or civil construction
• Demonstrated expertise in commercial/industrial fence and gate/access control design, materials, and installation sequencing
• Proficiency with Bluebeam, CAD software, and Microsoft Excel (advanced use expected)
• Proven success estimating self-performed scopes and understanding construction labor models
• Experience translating engineered drawings into real-world installation plans
• High attention to detail and systems accuracy—"wrong takeoffs" don't happen on your watch
• Ability to manage multiple bids and design efforts simultaneously under tight deadlines
• Based in or willing to relocate to Erie, CO (Denver Metro)

Preferred but Not Required

• Experience estimating DOT or federal/military fence and gate scopes
• Background in guardrail, fall protection, or civil site development
• Familiarity with gate automation, access controls, and vehicle/pedestrian safety systems
• Knowledge of wildlife, anti-climb, or specialty high-security fencing specs
• Familiarity with Western U.S. regional pricing, vendors, and terrain-driven challenges

Seniority level

• Not Applicable

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Design
• Industries
• Construction