Jr. Estimator

Job Summary:

Marks Clearing & Grading is seeking a motivated Junior Estimator to join our preconstruction and estimating team. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual looking to build a career in heavy civil construction and site development while learning directly from experienced estimators, project managers, and field leaders.

The Junior Estimator will assist in preparing accurate and competitive estimates for site-development projects including clearing, earthwork, erosion control, storm drainage, utilities, aggregate base, concrete, and related civil construction activities.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Prepare, analyze and maintain accurate quantities and thorough take offs from plans under the guidance or supervision of Chief Estimator.
• Assist with preparation of estimates for site-development and heavy civil projects.
• Review construction drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, bid documents, and contract requirements.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for earthwork, utilities, storm drainage, erosion control, paving, concrete, and other scopes of work.
• Assist with earthwork quantity analysis and cut/fill evaluations.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Assist senior estimators with labor, equipment, material, and subcontractor pricing.
• Develop an understanding of production rates, crew configurations, equipment utilization, and construction means and methods.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, scope reviews, and estimate strategy meetings.
• Help identify project risks, opportunities, exclusions, and scope gaps.
• Maintain organized estimate files, historical cost information, vendor pricing, and bid documentation.
• Assist with bid reviews and preparation of final proposals.
• Participate in estimate handoff meetings with project management and field operations for awarded projects.
• Work closely with operations personnel to compare estimated versus actual production and costs and incorporate lessons learned into future estimates.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or a related field; equivalent construction experience will also be considered.
• 0–3 years of construction, estimating, project engineering, or field experience.
• Exposure to heavy civil, grading, utilities, roadway, or site-development construction is beneficial.
• Ability to read and interpret civil construction drawings and specifications.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and general computer applications.
• Experience with estimating, takeoff, or earthwork software including Experience with HCSS HeavyBid and AGTEK is a plus but not required.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively with subcontractors, suppliers, project managers, field personnel, and clients.
• Willingness to visit jobsites and learn construction operations firsthand.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to spend time on job sites as needed.
• Must be able to sit for extended periods when working on estimates.