Senior Estimator, Wet Utilities — Strategic Bid Lead

H. T. PROF Group; Corona (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

H. T. PROF Group is seeking a Senior Estimator to lead the planning, coordination, and development of detailed project cost estimates for wet pipeline construction in Corona, CA. The role reports to the Chief Estimator and drives bid quality and profitability.

You will analyze drawings, develop cost breakdowns, mentor junior staff, and coordinate with engineers, project managers, and field personnel to ensure accurate, competitive bids and successful project outcomes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in project cost estimating or project management within the wet pipeline industry.
• Proficiency in plan takeoffs using Planswift, OST, Bluebeam, or similar software.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Project).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to perform in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to train and mentor junior staff.
• Advanced knowledge of construction means, methods, and sequencing.
• Skilled in preparing detailed cost estimates covering labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and indirect costs.
• Strong quantity takeoff and cost analysis experience.
• Proficiency in estimating software (HeavyBid, HCSS, Sage, Bluebeam, Timberline).
• Ability to interpret complex plans, specifications, and contract documents.
• Understanding of market pricing, unit costs, and cost trends.
• Proven experience in developing competitive bids, proposals, GMP, and lump-sum estimates.
• Competency in value engineering, risk assessment, and constructability evaluation.
• Excellent mathematical, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to present estimate assumptions and results to executives, clients, and project teams.
• Skilled at negotiating with subcontractors and suppliers.
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally with engineers, project managers, and field personnel.
• Experience in mentoring and developing estimating teams.
• Strong relationship-building skills with clients, subcontractors, and vendors.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for wet pipeline projects, including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and related indirect costs.
• Attend client pre-bid meetings and job site visits; document all relevant information gathered during the RFQ and pre-bid process.
• Review and analyze project drawings, specifications, and soils reports to determine accurate scopes of work.
• Develop and communicate estimate assumptions, resource requirements, and cost breakdowns.
• Maintain open communication with internal departments, project managers, and clients throughout the estimating process.
• Apply approved costing methodologies, data systems, and historical performance data to create consistent, reliable estimates.
• Lead or participate in bid reviews, ensuring estimates align with company objectives and client expectations.
• Mentor and support junior estimators and administrative staff; provide guidance, feedback, and training.
• Collaborate with project teams post-award to assist with takeoffs, change orders, constructability reviews, and cost forecasting.
• Coordinate and evaluate bid submissions and subcontractor proposals.
• Provide interim departmental oversight or leadership support as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by senior leadership.

Skills

Cost estimation

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering

Tools

Planswift

OST

Bluebeam

Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Project)

Sage

HeavyBid

HCSS

Timberline

Job description

H. T. PROF Group is seeking a Senior Estimator to lead the planning, coordination, and development of detailed project cost estimates for wet pipeline construction in Corona, CA. The role reports to the Chief Estimator and drives bid quality and profitability.

You will analyze drawings, develop cost breakdowns, mentor junior staff, and coordinate with engineers, project managers, and field personnel to ensure accurate, competitive bids and successful project outcomes.