SENIOR ESTIMATOR

Knife River - North Central; Bemidji (MN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance

401(k) with Company Match

Paid Time Off

Profit Sharing

Job summary

Knife River - North Central is seeking a Senior Estimator to prepare accurate and competitive construction cost estimates by analyzing blueprints, specifications, proposals, and related documentation. This role collaborates with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams to develop detailed labor, material, equipment, and time estimates.

The Senior Estimator communicates effectively in written and verbal form and plays a key role in coordinating bid activities, reviews, and handoffs

Qualifications

• Seven (7) or more years of experience as an Estimator in road construction / civil projects or related field.
• Bachelor's degree in an estimation-related field or equivalent experience; team environment experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with HCSS or similar estimating software.

Responsibilities

• Analyze blueprints, specifications, proposals, and documentation to prepare accurate time, cost, labor, material, and equipment estimates for construction projects and services.
• Review historical data, vendor quotes, subcontractor pricing, and internal data to determine cost factors and risks.
• Prepare detailed, itemized cost breakdowns and supporting documentation for bids and proposals.
• Consult with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams during the estimating process.
• Calculate earthwork take-offs and 2D hard surface take-offs.
• Coordinate estimating activities for bid opportunities and ensure deadlines are met.
• Participate in bid reviews and handoff meetings, communicating scope, assumptions, and risks clearly.
• Troubleshoot estimating issues related to scope, material availability, or cost variances.
• Maintain professionalism under deadline pressure and foster positive relationships with customers and vendors.
• Some travel may be required for site visits, pre-bid meetings, or vendor coordination.
• Support operations throughout construction to closeout and follow up with clients.

Skills

Analytical skills

Takeoffs from drawings

Bid communications

Time management

Estimating software

Education

Bachelor's degree in estimation-related field

Tools

HCSS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Overview

Knife River is a PEOPLE-first company. Our team members are key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and go home safely each day. We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the country. We are publicly traded on the NYSE (ticker KNF) and part of the S&P MidCap 400 index.

Role: Senior Estimator. The Senior Estimator prepares accurate and competitive cost estimates for construction projects by analyzing blueprints, specifications, proposals, and related documentation. This role collaborates with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams to develop detailed labor, material, equipment, and time estimates. The Senior Estimator communicates effectively in written and verbal form with all levels within and outside the organization in a professional and timely manner.

Typical schedule during production is Monday – Friday 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM with frequent Saturdays. The schedule during maintenance season is Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM with a rare Saturday.

Responsibilities

• Analyze blueprints, specifications, proposals, and other documentation to prepare accurate time, cost, labor, material, and equipment estimates for construction projects and services.
• Review historical data, vendor quotes, subcontractor pricing, and internal production data to determine project cost factors and risk considerations.
• Prepare detailed, itemized cost breakdowns and supporting documentation for use in bids and proposals.
• Consult with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams to clarify scope, assumptions, pricing, and technical requirements during the estimating process.
• Calculate earthwork take-offs and 2D hard surface take-offs.
• Coordinate estimating activities for bid opportunities, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and adherence to bid deadlines.
• Participate in bid reviews and handoff meetings, clearly communicating scope, assumptions, and estimating risks to internal stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve estimating issues related to scope discrepancies, material availability, production challenges, or cost variances.
• Communicate effectively (verbal, listening, and written) and maintain professionalism in high-pressure, deadline-driven environments. Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and a team-oriented mindset while maintaining positive customer and vendor relationships.
• Some travel may be required for site visits, pre-bid meetings, or vendor coordination.
• Support operations throughout construction to closeout.
• Follow-up with current and future clients.
• Ensure DOT, MSHA, OSHA, EPA, DNR, safety and environmental regulation compliance.
• Always work safely and take action to prevent unsafe actions, processes, and behaviors.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong analytical and mathematical skills with high attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to perform precise quantity takeoffs from drawings and specifications.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for preparing bids, clarifying scope, and collaborating with stakeholders.
• Time management and prioritization skills to meet tight bid deadlines while managing multiple estimates.
• Proficiency in estimating software, spreadsheets, and databases to organize and analyze cost data.
• Ability to interpret incomplete or conceptual design documents and make reasonable pricing assumptions.

Minimum Requirements

• Seven (7) or more years of experience as an Estimator in road construction / civil projects or a closely related field.
• Bachelor's degree in an estimation-related field or equivalent estimating/construction experience. A hands-on, results-oriented approach is essential. Military, intern, and/or co-op experience preferred. Ability to work indoors and outdoors and function effectively in a team environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. Experience with HCSS or similar estimating software preferred.
• Ability to hold and maintain proper licensure and an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work flexible shifts, including overtime, possible nights, and some Saturdays.

Compensation

$90,000 – $120,000 annually depending on experience.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Profit Sharing
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Sick Time
• 8 Paid Holidays
• Company Paid Life and AD&D Insurance
• Short-term Disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• Years of Service Recognition
• Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouses, and Dependents
• Critical Illness Plan
• Accident Coverage Plan
• Hospital Indemnity

Additional Information

Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal laws. Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks. All applications are submitted online. If you are having issues completing the application, please come to the office for assistance.