Preconstruction Estimator - Water & Wastewater

Wharton-Smith, Inc.; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contractor firm, Wharton-Smith, Inc. is looking for a skilled Preconstruction Estimator to join their Tampa team. The role involves developing accurate cost estimates and supporting budgeting efforts on water and wastewater projects. Join a supportive culture where your career can grow through mentorship and impactful projects.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of estimating experience in the construction industry (preferably water/wastewater).
• Strong skills in construction estimating and budgeting.
• Ability to thrive in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and prepare detailed construction estimates for water and wastewater treatment projects.
• Conduct material and quantity take-offs based on engineering drawings.
• Collaborate with project managers and engineers for competitive pricing.

Skills

Construction estimating

Quantity take-offs

Budgeting

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Civil Engineering degree

Tools

Estimating software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Company Description

Wharton-Smith, Inc. — "The Construction Group of Choice" — is a leading general contractor with a proven track record in General Contracting, Construction Management, and Design-Build services across the Southeastern United States and internationally. Headquartered in Sanford, Florida, we operate multiple regional offices and are proud to be recognized as a Top ENR 400 Contractor, Top ENR 200 Environmental Firm, and a Best Place to Work. Our commitment to excellence, integrity, and teamwork defines everything we do.

Job Description: Preconstruction Estimator – Water & Wastewater

Location: Tampa, FL (On-site | Full-Time)

Wharton-Smith is seeking a qualified Preconstruction Estimator with expertise in Water & Wastewater projects to join our Tampa team. In this role, you'll play a vital part in the early stages of project development—delivering accurate cost estimates, performing quantity take-offs, and supporting budgeting efforts to set the foundation for successful project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and prepare detailed construction estimates for water and wastewater treatment projects.
• Conduct material and quantity take-offs based on engineering drawings and specifications.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to support accurate and competitive pricing.
• Assist in value engineering and cost analysis exercises.
• Participate in preconstruction meetings and proposal development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 2–5 years of estimating experience in the construction industry (preferably water/wastewater).
• Strong skills in construction estimating, quantity take-offs, and budgeting.
• Proficient in estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.

Why Wharton-Smith?

At Wharton-Smith, we foster a supportive culture where your career can grow alongside meaningful, community-impacting projects. We invest in our people through mentorship, training, and opportunity — because when our people succeed, so does our business.

Ready to build something that matters?

Apply now and be a part of a team shaping the infrastructure of tomorrow.