SCDOT Senior Estimator-SE0926

Sanders Brothers Construction Co. Inc.; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Sanders Brothers Construction Company in Charleston, SC, seeks a Senior Estimator with a proven track record in SCDOT and heavy highway projects. You will lead takeoffs, model earthwork, and drive bid accuracy from start to finish, collaborating with design engineers and project teams.

You will prepare detailed quantity lists, optimize grading plans, and mentor junior estimators while ensuring adherence to state DOT standards and project profitability.

Qualifications

• Proven track record estimating SCDOT and/or other state DOT heavy highway projects.
• 3+ years of experience utilizing Agtek, Paydirt, Insite, or similar earthwork takeoff software.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD; GPS machine control modeling desirable.

Responsibilities

• Bid preparation including onscreen digitizing, takeoffs, and quantity accuracy per SCDOT guidelines.
• Create earthwork models and GPS machine control data; value-engineer projects with grading optimization.
• Lead estimating efforts and drive bid reviews from start to finish; attend pre-construction meetings.
• Identify items of work and prepare detailed construction element lists for heavy highway and site development.
• Maintain quality service by following DOT standards; ensure cross-functional collaboration between estimating, surveying, and project management.
• Mentor and support less experienced estimators as the team grows.

Skills

SCDOT experience

Heavy highway

Site development

AutoCAD

GPS machine control modeling

Tools

Agtek

Paydirt

Insite

AutoCAD

Job description

Senior Estimator-SE0926
Sanders Brothers Construction Company | Charleston, South Carolina

About Sanders Brothers Construction

For over 60 years, Sanders Brothers Construction has been building a foundation of trust for our clients, communities, and employees. Our work spans the Lowcountry - from leading growth in the rapidly expanding Summerville corridor to preserving the character of historic downtown Charleston. With approximately 350 employees across multiple departments including sitework, asphalt, utilities, and soil stabilization, we are a full-service heavy civil contractor delivering on our promises from start to finish.

Integrity. Accountability. Commitment. Teamwork. Safety. Quality.

Every person on our team plays a vital role in building projects that leave a lasting mark on our community.

Position Overview

Sanders Brothers Construction is seeking a Senior Estimator specializing in Heavy Highway, Earthwork, & Grading Projects to join our team. This is a key role within our Estimating department - built for an experienced estimator with a proven track record on SCDOT (South Carolina Department of Transportation) projects and other state DOT heavy highway work.

To be considered, candidates must have extensive experience estimating major civil infrastructure, with a specific emphasis on SCDOT projects and large-scale heavy highway developments. The Senior Estimator leads estimating efforts from takeoff through bid submission, and works closely with the estimating and project management teams to maximize project profitability.

Core Purpose

To prepare accurate, competitive, and profitable bids for Sanders Brothers' heavy highway and infrastructure projects - bringing the technical estimating expertise, SCDOT specification knowledge, and cross-functional collaboration that set the foundation for successful project execution.

Key Responsibilities

Bid Preparation

• Perform onscreen digitizing, take-offs, and accurate bid quantity preparation for large civil and highway projects in strict accordance with SCDOT specifications and guidelines
• Perform earthwork and horizontal element takeoffs from AutoCAD files and electronic construction drawings
• Identify and quantify plan revisions throughout the bid process

Modeling & Value Engineering

• Prepare earthwork grading maps based on plans, onscreen takeoffs, and project specifications for each area of work
• Create earthwork models for GPS machine control
• Work with clients and design engineers to value-engineer projects by optimizing grading plans

Estimating Leadership & Client Development

• Lead estimating efforts and drive bid reviews from start to finish
• Attend pre-construction meetings and process change orders
• Foster client development and support new business relationships

Project Logistics & Scope Identification

• Prepare work to be accomplished by gathering information and requirements; set priorities
• Identify items of work required; prepare detailed construction element lists with accurate quantities for heavy highway and site development

Quality Assurance

• Maintain quality service by following organizational and state DOT standards

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Act as a critical liaison between the estimating, surveying, and project management teams to ensure seamless project handoffs
• Interact closely with estimating and project management staff to maximize project profitability

Leadership Expectations

• Bring a methodical, detail-driven approach to every bid - accuracy and thoroughness protect the company's margins
• Communicate clearly and proactively with estimators, project managers, field crews, and agency representatives
• Build trust with clients and design engineers through responsive, professional collaboration
• Hold the line on SCDOT and state DOT specifications and guidelines, even under bid deadline pressure
• Mentor and support less experienced estimators as the team grows

Department: Estimating

Qualifications

• Proven track record estimating SCDOT and/or other state DOT heavy highway projects, alongside large-scale commercial site development
• 3+ years of experience utilizing Agtek, Paydirt, Insite, or similar earthwork takeoff software
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD required; experience building models for GPS machine control systems highly desirable
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including advanced knowledge of formulas
• Solid written and verbal communication skills - able to collaborate daily with estimators, project managers, field crews, and agency representatives
• Exceptional attention to detail, methodical approach to complex bids, and strong organizational skills

Why This Role Matters

Winning the right work at the right price is what keeps Sanders Brothers building. Every accurate takeoff, every well-modeled grading plan, and every competitive bid the Senior Estimator delivers directly shapes the projects our crews execute in the field.

As SCDOT and heavy highway work continues to grow across the Lowcountry, the precision and judgment this role brings to the bid process is what keeps Sanders Brothers competitive and profitable - and sets every project up for success before the first shovel hits the ground.