Lead Estimator – Caltrans Heavy Civil Infrastructure

6 Degrees Search; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

6 Degrees Search is seeking a Senior Estimator for heavy civil infrastructure in Southern California. You will lead bids for Caltrans and public works projects, develop production-based estimates, and coordinate with subcontractors and operations to ensure competitive pricing and accurate cost projections.

The role demands 10+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil, a deep understanding of earthwork, grading, paving, and utilities, and strong analytical and negotiation skills.

Qualifications

• Over 10 years of heavy civil construction estimating experience.
• Proven experience estimating Caltrans highway and California public works projects.
• Strong knowledge of Caltrans specs, plans, bid requirements, and construction standards.
• Deep understanding of earthwork, grading, paving, structural concrete, underground utilities, and roadway construction.
• Airport/FAA infrastructure estimating experience is highly desirable.
• Experience developing production-based estimates using labor and equipment crews.
• Strong understanding of subcontractor bid leveling, scope coverage, and vendor pricing.
• Ability to analyze complex plans, specifications, schedules, and contract requirements.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates while meeting strict public agency bid deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation of detailed estimates and competitive bids for large-scale heavy civil infrastructure projects.
• Review Caltrans standards, plans, special provisions, drawings, and contract documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop pricing for labor, equipment, materials, subs, and indirect costs.
• Develop production rates for grading, earthwork, paving, and civil operations.
• Coordinate with subcontractors and vendors to ensure complete scope coverage and pricing.
• Identify bid risks, opportunities, and value engineering options.
• Prepare preliminary schedules and coordinate with Primavera P6 when required.
• Support change order pricing and project cost analysis.

Skills

Estimating experience

Earthwork & grading

Roadway construction

Structural concrete

Underground utilities

Bid management

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Project coordination

Caltrans knowledge

Tools

HCSS HeavyBid

InEight/Hard Dollar

Primavera P6

Microsoft Excel

Bluebeam Revu

Microsoft Office Suite

Digital takeoff platforms

Job description

6 Degrees Search is seeking a Senior Estimator for heavy civil infrastructure in Southern California. You will lead bids for Caltrans and public works projects, develop production-based estimates, and coordinate with subcontractors and operations to ensure competitive pricing and accurate cost projections.

The role demands 10+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil, a deep understanding of earthwork, grading, paving, and utilities, and strong analytical and negotiation skills.