Project Estimator

Arrowhead Talent Solutions is assisting a growing telecommunications company in Lexington NC with their search for a Civil Estimator.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Civil Estimator professional is responsible for winning new work by developing accurate, competitive proposals for civil construction and drilling projects while building and maintaining strong client relationships. This role owns the estimating process from initial inquiry through contract award, works closely with the Project Superintendent to ensure seamless bid-to-build handoff, and actively pursues new business opportunities with telecommunications carriers, tower companies, general contractors, and direct clients. Reports directly to company ownership.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Estimating & Proposal Development

• Lead the estimating process for civil construction and cell tower drilling projects ranging from $50K to $2M
• Conduct detailed quantity takeoffs from drawings, specifications, and site assessments
• Develop comprehensive cost estimates including labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and markup
• Build and maintain estimating databases including unit costs, production rates, and historical data
• Price foundation drilling (caisson, auger-cast, drilled piers), concrete work, site preparation, and utility installation
• Prepare professional proposals, scopes of work, and bid submissions
• Review subcontractor quotes and incorporate into overall pricing strategy
• Analyze risk factors including soil conditions, access constraints, and schedule requirements; build appropriate contingencies
• Present proposals to clients and negotiate scope, pricing, and contract terms

Business Development & Client Management

• Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities in target markets
• Build relationships with telecommunications carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile), tower companies (American Tower, Crown Castle, SBA), and general contractors
• Conduct sales calls, attend networking events, and leverage industry relationships to generate leads
• Respond to RFPs, bid invitations, and informal quote requests
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site walks, and scope clarification discussions
• Maintain CRM pipeline and track opportunities through sales cycle
• Serve as primary point of contact for estimating and pre-construction inquiries
• Develop strategic partnerships with repeat clients and preferred vendor relationships
• Represent the company at industry events and professional associations

Site Assessment & Preconstruction Planning

• Visit prospective job sites to assess conditions, constraints, and logistics
• Identify site-specific challenges including access, soil conditions, utilities, and environmental factors
• Coordinate with engineers, architects, and client representatives during preconstruction phase
• Develop preliminary work plans and schedules for awarded projects
• Facilitate smooth handoff to Project Superintendent with detailed scope review and estimate walk-through

Market Intelligence & Continuous Improvement

• Monitor market rates, competitor pricing, and industry trends
• Analyze win/loss ratios and adjust pricing strategies accordingly
• Track actual costs versus estimated costs on completed projects to improve accuracy
• Work with Project Superintendent to document lessons learned and refine estimating assumptions
• Identify new service offerings or market opportunities for business growth
• Stay current on telecommunications infrastructure trends, regulatory changes, and technological advancements

Collaboration & Reporting

• Coordinate with Project Superintendent on resource availability and project scheduling
• Provide regular reporting to ownership on pipeline, win rates, pricing trends, and market intelligence
• Support change order pricing and scope modifications on active projects
• Maintain organized estimating files, proposal archives, and historical cost databases
• Participate in weekly leadership meetings to align on strategic priorities and capacity planning

QUALIFICATIONS

• 7 years experience in construction estimating with focus on civil, sitework, or heavy construction
• Proven track record pricing and winning work in competitive bid environments
• Deep understanding of civil construction means, methods, and materials
• Experience estimating foundation drilling, concrete work, earthwork, and utility installation
• Strong technical skills including quantity takeoffs, cost databases, and proposal development
• Proficiency with estimating software (HeavyBid, HCSS, or similar) and Microsoft Excel (advanced)
• Excellent communication and presentation skills for client-facing interactions
• Business development orientation and comfort with consultative sales activities
• Ability to read and interpret civil drawings, geotechnical reports, and specifications
• Valid driver's license for site visits and client meetings
• Self-motivated with strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple opportunities simultaneously