Preconstruction Sitework Estimator

Wharton-Smith, Inc.; Sanford (FL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Wharton-Smith, Inc. is seeking a qualified Preconstruction Sitework Estimator to develop accurate sitework estimates for municipal utility, infrastructure, and commercial developments in Central Florida.

You will perform quantity takeoffs, assess methods, and coordinate with preconstruction and project teams to shape competitive bids. The role requires experience with underground utility construction, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in PlanSwift, OST, and MS Office.

Qualifications

• Three (3) years of underground mechanical estimating experience.
• Experience in municipal utility, water/wastewater, infrastructure, or civil construction.
• Ability to read drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents.
• Proficiency with PlanSwift, OST, and MS Office.
• Willingness to travel and work full-time in Central Florida.

Responsibilities

• Read and review construction drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and other design criteria documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for all sitework components, including quantity counts, measurements, and material identification.
• Calculate labor and equipment costs for self-performed work under various jobsite conditions.
• Identify project risks, including utility conflicts, dewatering requirements, and excavation protection needs.
• Solicit subcontractor and supplier participation via approved communication methods.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits as required.
• Prepare RFIs, clarifications, assumptions, and exclusions related to project estimates.

Skills

Estimating accuracy

Read drawings & specs

Analytical problem-solving

Time management

Communication skills

Education

Associate degree in Construction Management or related field

Tools

PlanSwift

On-Screen Takeoff (OST)

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Wharton-Smith, Inc., a highly regarded General Contractor throughout the Southeast, is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Preconstruction Sitework Estimator. We are currently seeking someone who is willing to work in Central, FL.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Preconstruction Sitework Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and comprehensive sitework estimates for a variety of construction projects ranging from municipal utility improvements to large-scale infrastructure and commercial developments. This position performs quantity takeoffs, scope analysis, subcontractor solicitation, and cost estimating for self-performed and subcontracted sitework activities. The Sitework Estimator works closely with Preconstruction Managers, Project Managers, subcontractors, suppliers, and design teams to identify project risks, evaluate construction methods, and develop competitive estimates that support successful project pursuits.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Read and review construction drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and other design criteria documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for all sitework components, including quantity counts, measurements, and material identification.
• Calculate labor and equipment costs for self-performed work under a variety of jobsite conditions.
• Identify project risks, including utility conflicts, dewatering requirements, excavation protection needs, and other temporary measures required for a complete sitework estimate.
• Solicit subcontractor and supplier participation via phone, email, and other approved communication methods.
• Develop and maintain long-term, beneficial relationships with key vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Perform scope analysis and identify estimating deficiencies, omissions, and gaps as needed.
• Manage multiple projects ranging from approximately $4 million to $400 million while meeting strict deadlines and maintaining accuracy.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits as required.
• Prepare Requests for Information (RFIs), clarifications, assumptions, and exclusions related to project estimates.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Technology, or a related field preferred; equivalent combinations of education and relevant field experience may be considered.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in underground mechanical estimating, piping estimating, utility construction, or a related construction field required.
• Previous experience estimating hard-bid municipal utility, water/wastewater, infrastructure, or civil construction projects preferred.
• Strong understanding of underground utility construction, piping systems, appurtenances, excavation operations, and utility installation methods.
• Knowledge of temporary construction requirements and construction means and methods associated with underground utility projects.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, technical specifications, reports, and contract documents to support accurate project estimates.
• Working knowledge of construction estimating principles, quantity takeoffs, subcontractor solicitation, and scope analysis.
• Ability to identify project risks, evaluate scope requirements, and support the development of competitive construction estimates.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, PlanSwift, and On-Screen Takeoff (OST), with the ability to learn company-specific estimating software.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple estimates, projects, and competing deadlines.
• Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills to coordinate with internal teams, subcontractors, suppliers, and project stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven construction environment.
• Proficiency in using standard office equipment, including laptops, smartphones, photocopiers, and scanners.
• Ability to perform office-related tasks requiring close vision, focus, and regular verbal communication.
• Ability to occasionally lift and move office materials and supplies weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Availability to work a full-time, exempt schedule during standard business hours, with flexibility to accommodate bid deadlines, estimate reviews, project pursuits, and operational needs.
• Willingness and ability to travel for pre-bid meetings, project site visits, walkthroughs, and meetings with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
• Valid driver's license required.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disability

Wharton-Smith provides equal opportunity to qualified disabled veterans, Pre-JVA special disabled veterans and individuals with disabilities to online application systems by making reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access for submitting to job openings. (i.e., wheelchair accessibility, website accessibility, etc).