Senior Civil Construction Estimator

Wendler Inc.; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Wendler Inc. is seeking a motivated Civil Construction Estimator to support heavy civil and infrastructure construction operations in Cedar Rapids, IA. The role reports to the VP of Business Development within the Estimating department.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of construction operations, analytical skills, and initiative to develop estimating expertise in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent construction industry experience may be considered.
• Minimum 10 years in construction estimating, project engineering, or related heavy civil work.
• Experience with underground utilities, earthwork, water/wastewater infrastructure preferred.
• Ability to interpret drawings/specifications and bid documents.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings and bid documents to develop accurate, competitive cost estimates.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and calculate labor, materials, equipment costs.
• Coordinate with suppliers and subcontractors for quotations.
• Identify scope gaps and potential cost impacts; propose solutions.
• Use Excel, Bluebeam and estimating software to prepare estimates.
• Collaborate with estimating, operations, and project management teams.
• Assist in bid proposals, supporting docs, and cost summaries for review.
• Manage estimating responsibilities, participate in pre-bid meetings, maintain records.

Skills

Heavy civil

Estimating

Excel

Bluebeam

Analytical

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Equivalent construction field experience

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

Summary

Wendler Inc. is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Civil Construction Estimator to support our heavy civil and infrastructure construction operations.

Location

Cedar Rapids, IA

Department

Estimating

Reports to

VP of Business Development

Effective Date

10/08/2026

This position is responsible for assisting in the development of accurate, competitive cost estimates for projects involving underground utilities, earthwork, concrete, water and wastewater infrastructure, and other civil construction activities

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of construction operations, analytical and problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to develop their estimating expertise. Success in this role requires a self-starter who takes initiative, communicates effectively, and can manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Review and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents to assist in developing accurate, competitive cost estimates.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and calculate labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs for heavy civil construction projects.
• Coordinate with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain and evaluate competitive quotations.
• Identify scope gaps, discrepancies, constructability concerns, and potential cost impacts, communicating findings and recommended solutions.
• Utilize Microsoft Excel, Bluebeam, and estimating software to prepare, organize, and validate estimates.
• Collaborate with estimating, operations, and project management teams to evaluate project requirements, construction methods, and bidding strategies.
• Assist in preparing bid proposals, supporting documentation, and cost summaries for management review and approval.
• Manage assigned estimating responsibilities, participate in pre-bid meetings and project handoffs, and maintain accurate cost records while meeting established deadlines.

Required Skills And Abilities

• Strong understanding of heavy civil construction methods, materials, equipment, and project requirements.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; familiarity with Bluebeam or construction estimating software preferred.
• Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative, learn quickly, exercise sound judgment, and manage competing priorities.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively, adapt to changing demands, and follow through on commitments.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent construction industry or field experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 10 years of construction estimating, project engineering, field operations, or related heavy civil construction experience.
• Experience or exposure to underground utilities, earthwork, concrete, water and wastewater infrastructure, or similar civil construction projects preferred.
• Familiarity with construction project lifecycles, bidding processes, and project cost considerations preferred.

Why Wendler Inc.

At Wendler, we’re not just building infrastructure, we’re building careers. As an employee-owned company (ESOP), we invest in our people, recognize their contributions, and provide opportunities for long-term professional and financial growth.

You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to challenging infrastructure projects, learn from experienced industry professionals, and develop the skills necessary to take on greater responsibilities as your career progresses.

We’re looking for individuals who take ownership of their work, embrace challenges, and share our commitment to safety, quality, loyalty, dedication, and growth.

Senior Civil Construction Estimator