Senior Estimator

Elite Surface Infrastructure; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Elite Surface Infrastructure in Denver, CO, seeks a Senior Estimator to prepare detailed cost estimates for heavy civil projects, including earthwork, utilities, asphalt, and concrete.

You will review plans, perform quantity takeoffs, analyze subcontractor quotes, and develop competitive bids in collaboration with project managers and field leaders.

The role emphasizes accurate budgeting, schedule alignment, risk assessment, and maintaining cost data for ongoing bids and client proposals.

Qualifications

• Experience in heavy civil construction estimating, including earthwork, underground utilities, asphalt, and concrete.
• Proficiency with estimating software, digital takeoff tools, and Microsoft Excel or similar applications.
• Strong analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills for working with project teams, clients, and subcontractors.
• Demonstrated capability to manage multiple bids, meet deadlines, and prioritize competing demands.
• Knowledge of construction means and methods, safety standards, and local market pricing.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Several years of progressive estimating experience in heavy civil or related construction environments.
• Familiarity with public and private bidding processes; experience with municipal or federal projects is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for heavy civil projects (earthwork, utilities, asphalt, concrete).
• Review plans and specifications and perform quantity takeoffs.
• Analyze subcontractor and supplier quotes to develop competitive bids.
• Collaborate with project managers, field leadership, and management to align budgets and schedules.
• Maintain historical cost data and refine estimating processes.
• Support business development and client proposals.

Skills

Heavy civil estimating

Analytical skills

Interpret drawings

Communication

Bid management

Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering or related field

Equivalent experience

Tools

Estimating software

Digital takeoff tools

Job description

Company Description

ESI is one of the largest civil construction companies in Colorado, self-performing asphalt, concrete, and earthwork with a company-owned fleet of heavy equipment and over 300 full-time field employees. The organization delivers durable, high-quality results for commercial, municipal, and federal projects. ESI provides a full range of services, including underground utility and pipe installation, grading, asphalt paving, site concrete, and general contracting. With over 140 years of combined experience in heavy civil construction, the management and estimating team leverages advanced equipment and current safety standards to complete projects efficiently and responsibly. The company emphasizes professional growth, safety, and the use of modern technology to support project success.

Role Description

The Senior Estimator is a full-time, on-site role based in Denver, CO. This position is responsible for preparing detailed cost estimates for heavy civil projects, including earthwork, underground utilities, asphalt paving, and concrete work. Day-to-day tasks include reviewing plans and specifications, performing quantity takeoffs, analyzing subcontractor and supplier quotes, and developing competitive bids. The Senior Estimator collaborates closely with project managers, field leadership, and the management team to ensure accurate budgeting, schedule alignment, and risk assessment. The role also involves maintaining historical cost data, refining estimating processes, and supporting business development and client proposals.

Qualifications

• Experience in heavy civil construction estimating, including earthwork, underground utilities, asphalt, and concrete.
• Proficiency with estimating software, digital takeoff tools, and Microsoft Excel or similar applications.
• Strong analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills for working with project teams, clients, and subcontractors.
• Demonstrated capability to manage multiple bids, meet deadlines, and prioritize competing demands.
• Knowledge of construction means and methods, safety standards, and local market pricing.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Several years of progressive estimating experience in heavy civil or related construction environments.
• Familiarity with public and private bidding processes; experience with municipal or federal projects is beneficial.