Senior Estimator

Bid Preparation, Estimating & Proposal Management

• Develop a complete understanding of each assigned bid, including plans, specifications, and all contract documents.
• Prepare bid bond requests, insurance review forms, and all required documentation.
• Develop green sheet estimates using historical data, market trends, and industry expertise.
• Set up estimates in HCSS and prepare crew-based estimates in accordance with Ames estimating protocols.
• Manage estimate closeout activities, including:
• Sales and use tax analysis
• Subcontractor and vendor quote evaluation and selection
• Risk allocation
• Final project pricing in coordination with Senior Management
• Ensure cost certainty for all estimate components, including self-performed work, subcontractor scopes, and vendor quotations.
• Develop or delegate bid schedules while considering project constraints, phasing requirements, and milestone deadlines.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and perform jobsite/local area assessments as required (travel may be necessary).
• Lead assigned estimating staff and facilitate estimate review meetings.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Identify project risks and provide mitigation strategies during the estimating process.
• Conduct quality control reviews of takeoffs, estimates, and estimating procedures to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Communication & Client Engagement

• Maintain effective communication with internal teams, clients, subcontractors, and vendors.
• Coordinate with owners, engineers, and general contractors before and throughout the bid process.

Vendor & Subcontractor Coordination

• Provide procurement teams with vendor and subcontractor scope lists, including DBE requirements.
• Verify solicitation of all required vendors and subcontractor scopes.
• Review, analyze, and incorporate selected trade partner clarifications and exceptions into bid proposals.

Technical & Strategic Leadership

• Develop project execution strategies that enhance competitiveness and improve win probability.
• Coordinate equipment availability with the Chief Estimator.
• Prepare technical and commercial clarifications for bids and proposals.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure all bid deadlines are met and bid forms are completed accurately.
• Maintain a strong understanding of owner bid programs and submission requirements.
• Collaborate across offices to support OneAmes initiatives.
• Promote Ames and actively seek additional project opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of heavy civil construction experience, including at least 7 years in progressively responsible estimating roles leading to Senior Estimator-level qualifications.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Construction, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment while remaining self-motivated.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively across all organizational levels and with external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in HCSS HeavyBid and Microsoft Office Suite; experience with AGTEK or similar earthwork software preferred.
• Experience using Primavera P6 scheduling software.
• Demonstrated success leading estimates and bidding complex heavy civil projects valued at $200M .
• Strong expertise in:
• Earthwork estimating (mass grading, highway cut/fill, import/export operations)
• Underground utilities (storm drain, water, sewer, and associated structures)
• Bridge and structural concrete construction
• Broad understanding of additional heavy civil scopes, specialty subcontractor pricing, and market conditions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to identify technical issues and develop timely, practical solutions.