What are the responsibilities and job description for the Commercial Concrete Estimator position at Merritt Contracting?
About Merritt Contracting
At Merritt Contracting, we build more than just projects — we build careers. Since 1995, our crews have helped us become a trusted contractor for commercial concrete and civil construction across Indiana. The Merritt Way means doing the job safely, delivering quality work, and moving efficiently as a team. We’re proudly an employee-owned (ESOP) company focused on long-term growth and strong field leadership.
Position Summary
We are looking for an experienced Commercial Concrete Estimator with at least 5 years of estimating experience in commercial concrete construction.
This role requires someone who understands how concrete work is actually built — not just how to read plans. The right person will be comfortable estimating slabs, foundations, walls, structural concrete, and related scopes, while working closely with project managers and field leadership to develop accurate, competitive bids.
We’re looking for someone who is detail-oriented, organized, and collaborative, and who can help us win work while protecting margins and supporting smooth project execution.
What You’ll Be Doing
Estimating & Pre-construction
- Review project plans, specifications, and bid documents for commercial concrete projects
- Perform accurate quantity takeoffs for slabs, foundations, walls, piers, footings, structural concrete, and related scopes
- Develop detailed cost estimates including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and production rates
- Solicit and review quotes from vendors and subcontractors
- Analyze project risks, constructability issues, and potential cost impacts
Bid Preparation
- Prepare competitive and complete bid packages
- Clarify scope inclusions, exclusions, and assumptions
- Participate in pre-bid meetings and project walkthroughs when necessary
- Work with leadership to refine pricing strategy and margins
Collaboration with Operations
- Coordinate with project managers and superintendents to verify production assumptions
- Support project handoff after award to ensure a smooth transition from estimating to operations
- Assist with scope reviews, budgets, and value engineering when needed
Continuous Improvement
- Track historical production rates and costs to improve estimate accuracy
- Help refine internal estimating processes and systems
- Maintain organized documentation of bids and takeoffs
What We’re Looking For
Experience
- Minimum 5 years estimating commercial concrete projects
- Experience estimating scopes such as:
- Slab-on-grade
- Foundations
- Structural concrete
- Flatwork
- Footings and walls
- Experience working with commercial or industrial projects
Technical Skills
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
- Strong understanding of concrete construction methods and sequencing
- Experience with quantity takeoffs and cost analysis
- Familiarity with estimating software and Excel
Personal Qualities
- Organized and detail-oriented
- Calm, solution-focused communicator
- Collaborative with project managers
- Professional and respectful working style
Why Work With Us
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Employee-owned company (ESOP) – ownership participation after one year
- Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance
- Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
- Employer-Paid Life Insurance
- PTO Accrual & Holiday Pay
- 401(k) with Company Match
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: Merritt Contracting is an equal opportunity employer and follows all state and federal laws regarding EEO and anti-discrimination. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. If you need accommodation during the application process, please contact our Human Resources department. Your application will be handled confidentially and in compliance with the law.