Objective
The Estimator plays a key role in the successful delivery of water and wastewater infrastructure projects by preparing accurate, detailed, and competitive cost estimates for design-build projects. Reporting directly to the Director of Design-Build, this position requires a strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and processes in the water/wastewater industry, as well as the ability to collaborate with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure estimates align with project scope, budget, and schedule requirements.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed cost estimates for water and wastewater treatment plant projects, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor services.
- Prepare detailed scope and bid breakdown packages for trade partners.
- Analyze project plans, specifications, and related documents to identify cost drivers, risks, and opportunities for value engineering.
- Work closely with engineers, project managers, and design staff to ensure estimates reflect current design intent and construction feasibility.
- Solicit, review, and negotiate subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure competitive pricing and scope coverage.
- Develop and maintain historical cost data for use in future estimating activities.
- Participate in bid reviews, proposal preparation, and project presentations to clients.
- Assist in project budgeting and forecasting during pre-construction and early project stages.
- Collaborate with the scheduling team to ensure cost estimates align with proposed timelines.
- Track market trends in materials, equipment, and labor to maintain competitive and accurate estimates.
- Support project teams during the transition from estimating to construction, ensuring proper handoff of estimate details.
- Maintain compliance with corporate safety and quality standards in all estimating activities
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required
- Strong understanding of water and wastewater treatment plant construction methods, including heavy mechanical, piping, and concrete work.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Project, and Outlook; ability to learn and utilize estimating software and project management tools such as Procore.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills to collaborate effectively with clients, team members, and subcontractors.
- Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy in cost development.
- Ability to work under tight deadlines while managing multiple estimates simultaneously.
- Knowledge of industry-standard estimating practices and familiarity with CSI divisions related to water/wastewater infrastructure.
- Ability to oversee multiple hard bids, CMAR and Design-Build bids simultaneously.
- Provide mentoring, coaching and training to stakeholders.
Education, Credentials, and Experience Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred; equivalent work experience considered.
- Minimum 5 years of estimating experience in water/wastewater or heavy civil construction.
- Valid state-issued driver’s license.
- Experience with design-build delivery methods preferred.
Work Conditions
Primarily office-based, with occasional travel to project sites, subcontractor facilities, and client offices. Site visits may require exposure to active construction areas, including both indoor and outdoor environments.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
I understand that this job description does not list all of the duties of my job. I am aware that I may be asked by my supervisors to perform additional duties or follow additional instructions. I understand that I will be evaluated in part based on my performance of the tasks listed in this job description. I have reviewed and understand the above job description. I understand the Company has the right to change this job description at any time. I also understand I am an at- will employee and that this job description is not an employment contract.