Lead Estimator - Underground Utilities & Infrastructure

RPM Utilities LLC; McKinney, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

RPM Utilities LLC seeks an experienced Chief Estimator to lead the estimating department and oversee bid preparation for utility construction projects in Texas. You will manage the estimating process from bid review through final submission, coordinating with operations, project management, vendors, subcontractors, and company leadership.

The role requires strong leadership, a deep understanding of underground utility construction, and proficiency in Excel and takeoff software.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7–10 years of estimating experience in underground utilities, heavy civil construction, or related field.
• Previous experience leading or managing an estimating team is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of underground utility construction, including water, sewer, storm drainage, and related infrastructure.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans, specifications and contract documents.
• Experience with estimating and takeoff software.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the estimating department and bidding process.
• Review plans, specifications, bid documents, and project requirements.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and other project expenses.
• Develop competitive bids for underground utility and infrastructure projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and review takeoffs prepared by other estimators.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing.
• Identify project risks, exclusions, assumptions, and potential cost impacts.
• Review historical project costs and production rates to improve estimating accuracy.
• Coordinate with operations and project management to confirm construction methods, manpower, equipment, and scheduling assumptions.
• Conduct bid reviews with company leadership before submission.
• Manage bid schedules, deadlines, and estimating workloads. Maintain estimating databases, cost information, and historical bid data.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project turnover meetings.
• Review awarded projects with operations to ensure a smooth transition from estimating to construction.
• Mentor and provide guidance to estimators and estimating support staff.
• Assist leadership with budgeting, forecasting, and strategic bidding opportunities.

Skills

Estimating

Leadership

Analytical

Cost analysis

Communication

Tools

Takeoff software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

RPM Utilities LLC seeks an experienced Chief Estimator to lead the estimating department and oversee bid preparation for utility construction projects in Texas. You will manage the estimating process from bid review through final submission, coordinating with operations, project management, vendors, subcontractors, and company leadership.

The role requires strong leadership, a deep understanding of underground utility construction, and proficiency in Excel and takeoff software.