Lead Estimator

Wilks Brothers, LLC; Cisco (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Compensation Package

Medical + Dental + Vision Coverage

401K + Company Match

Life Insurance + Long Term Disability Coverage – 100% Company Paid

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Tuition Reimbursement Program

Wellness Check Program - Insurance Premium Discounts

EAP Resources

Voluntary Benefit Offerings

Paid Holidays

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Job summary

Wilks Brothers, LLC is seeking a Lead Estimator in Cisco, TX, responsible for overseeing the estimating department. This role involves preparing accurate cost estimates for heavy civil construction projects and requires extensive experience in estimating and strong leadership skills. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and at least 7 years of experience in the industry, including a senior role. Competitive compensation and benefits are offered, along with the potential for career growth in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
• 7+ years of estimating experience in the heavy civil, dirt work, or earthmoving industry.
• Proven leadership experience in a senior estimator role.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimating team to prepare detailed cost estimates.
• Analyze project documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
• Coordinate with project managers and subcontractors to validate estimates.

Skills

Estimating software proficiency

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field

Tools

HCSS HeavyBid

Agtek

Bluebeam

Job description

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation Package
• Medical + Dental + Vision Coverage
• 401K + Company Match
• Life Insurance + Long Term Disability Coverage – 100% Company Paid
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Wellness Check Program - Insurance Premium Discounts
• EAP Resources
• Voluntary Benefit Offerings
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO)

Position Summary

The Lead Estimator is responsible for overseeing the estimating department and leading the development of accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates for heavy civil, earthwork, and infrastructure construction projects. This role requires a deep understanding of civil construction practices, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects and team members. The Lead Estimator plays a critical role in securing profitable work and supporting project success from initial bid through handoff to operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimating team to prepare detailed cost estimates for a variety of heavy civil and earthwork construction projects.
• Analyze project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
• Identify and quantify cost factors such as production time, materials, and labor expenses.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to collect input and validate estimates.
• Develop and maintain unit pricing databases, historical cost data, and estimating templates.
• Ensure bid packages are complete, accurate, and competitive in alignment with company goals and client expectations.
• Lead bid strategy meetings and ensure thorough risk analysis for each project.
• Review and approve all estimates and final bids prior to submission.
• Build relationships with clients, vendors, and subcontractors to ensure reliable pricing and project intelligence.
• Maintain awareness of market conditions, labor and material pricing trends, and competitor activities.
• Support handoff to project management by providing complete bid documentation and scope clarity.
• Mentor and develop junior estimators, ensuring consistency and growth in the estimating team.

Required Education, Experience, and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
• 7+ years of estimating experience in the heavy civil, dirt work, or earthmoving industry, including at least 3 years in a leadership or senior estimator role.
• Strong knowledge of grading, excavation, site prep, utilities, and related civil construction scopes.
• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., HCSS HeavyBid, Agtek, Bluebeam, or similar).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to lead a team and coordinate with cross-functional departments.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Working Conditions

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
• Positions to install equipment, including under desks.
• Moves throughout the building to access files.
• Must be able to comprehend and follow written and oral instructions.
• Must be able to complete tasks even with frequent interruptions.
• Must be able to use discretion and independent judgment as needed.
• Must be able to speak clearly on the phone and to fellow workers.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of this position and have had the opportunity to ask my supervisor about any points I did not understand. I hereby state that I can perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Location & Travel

This position will be on site in Cisco, TX. Travel may be required for this position.

Visa Sponsorship

We do not offer visa sponsorship for this position.