Lead Estimator - Heavy Civil & Site Development

Marks Clearing and Grading Inc.; Wendell (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Marks Clearing & Grading Inc. is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our preconstruction and estimating team. You will develop accurate estimates for heavy civil and site-development projects, including utilities, earthwork, erosion control, paving, and related scopes.

The role requires 3–7+ years in estimating or related fields and a degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering (or equivalent). You will review plans, perform quantity takeoffs, and craft competitive proposals.

Qualifications

• Bachelors or Associate degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or related field; equivalent heavy civil construction experience will also be considered.
• 3–7+ years of estimating, project management, project engineering, or field experience in heavy civil or site-development construction.
• Demonstrated knowledge of grading, earthwork, underground utilities, storm drainage, erosion control, paving, and related civil construction activities.
• Strong understanding of construction means and methods, equipment capabilities, crew configurations, and production rates.
• Ability to independently read and interpret civil construction drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents.
• Experience with construction estimating, digital takeoff, and earthwork modeling software including AGTEK and HCSS HeavyBid.
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other construction-related technology.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with estimating, project management, field operations, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.

Responsibilities

• Prepare complete and accurate estimates for site-development and heavy civil construction projects as directed by the Chief Estimator.
• Review plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, addenda, contracts, and other bid documents to develop a comprehensive understanding of project requirements.
• Perform and verify detailed quantity takeoffs for earthwork, utilities, storm drainage, erosion control, paving, concrete, and other civil scopes.
• Analyze earthwork quantities, cut/fill balances, haul requirements, material handling, and site logistics.
• Develop labor and equipment crews, production rates, durations, and associated costs based on anticipated construction means and methods.
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure complete scope coverage and competitive pricing.
• Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, project risks, opportunities, and potential value-engineering alternatives.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and conduct site visits to evaluate existing conditions, access, logistics, haul routes, material sources, and other factors affecting project cost.
• Develop bid strategies in collaboration with estimating leadership, operations, and executive management.
• Prepare estimate summaries, clarifications, exclusions, qualifications, and final proposals.
• Participate in final estimate reviews and clearly communicate assumptions, risks, and opportunities.
• Maintain accurate historical pricing, production data, subcontractor information, and estimating records.
• Participate in project handoff meetings to ensure a complete transfer of estimating assumptions, commitments, and project strategy to operations.
• Review estimated versus actual project performance and incorporate lessons learned into future estimates.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, engineers, owners, and other industry partners.
• Assist in mentoring and developing Junior Estimators and other members of the preconstruction team.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Reading civil drawings

Microsoft Excel

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or related field

Tools

AGTEK

HCSS HeavyBid

Job description

Marks Clearing & Grading Inc. is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our preconstruction and estimating team. You will develop accurate estimates for heavy civil and site-development projects, including utilities, earthwork, erosion control, paving, and related scopes.

The role requires 3–7+ years in estimating or related fields and a degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering (or equivalent). You will review plans, perform quantity takeoffs, and craft competitive proposals.