Senior Estimator — Heavy Civil & Mining

MacKay Contracting; Boise (ID); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

MacKay Contracting, based in Boise, Idaho, is seeking an experienced Estimator to develop complete bids for heavy civil, earthworks, and mining projects across the Western United States. You will work with operations and senior leadership to evaluate methods, risks, and opportunities, shaping the bids from ground up.

You’ll evaluate site conditions, sequencing, and construction methods to build practical, competitive estimates grounded in field experience, and influence project decisions from

Qualifications

• Several years of estimating experience in heavy civil construction, earthworks, mining, or related infrastructure work.
• Experience developing complete estimates for self-performed construction, including labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and indirect costs.
• A practical understanding of equipment production, construction sequencing, and cost drivers.
• Confidence interpreting drawings, specifications, quantities, and contract documents.
• Experience with computerized estimating systems, digital takeoff tools, and spreadsheet-based analysis.
• The ability to independently develop and present estimates, including assumptions, risks, and construction approaches.
• A degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline is valuable, but practical construction experience and demonstrated estimating ability matter just as much.

Responsibilities

• Develop complete, competitive estimates that reflect realistic production rates, equipment capabilities, labor requirements, material costs, and construction methods.
• Help evaluate opportunities, identify commercial and construction risks, and develop pricing strategies that balance competitiveness with responsible execution.
• Build connections with regional subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
• Contribute to estimate reviews, constructability discussions, and project handovers so the thinking behind the bid carries through to construction.
• Look beyond the drawings. Evaluate site conditions, access, haul routes, sequencing, and alternative construction methods to identify better ways to complete the work.
• You’ll have the opportunity to influence how projects are approached from the outset, working with operations and field personnel to build estimates grounded in real construction experience.

Skills

Estimating experience

Heavy civil construction

Earthworks & mining

Cost drivers understanding

Interpret drawings & specs

Education

Civil/Construction degree

Tools

Estimating software

Digital takeoff

Spreadsheets

Job description

MacKay Contracting, based in Boise, Idaho, is seeking an experienced Estimator to develop complete bids for heavy civil, earthworks, and mining projects across the Western United States. You will work with operations and senior leadership to evaluate methods, risks, and opportunities, shaping the bids from ground up.

You’ll evaluate site conditions, sequencing, and construction methods to build practical, competitive estimates grounded in field experience, and influence project decisions from