What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Civil Construction Estimator position at Outback Contactors Inc.?
Outback Contractors, Inc. is seeking an experienced senior civil construction estimator to lead the preparation, coordination, strategy, and submission of estimates for heavy civil, utility, renewable, and infrastructure projects throughout California and other select states.
This role is responsible for producing accurate estimates while also driving bid strategy, mentoring others, influencing project pursuit decisions, and aligning with business development and operational execution. The ideal candidate is a recognized expert in civil construction means and methods with a deep knowledge of labor & equipment production, union labor agreements, and supplier markets.
Our estimators play a key role in supporting business development, meeting revenue goals, and securing profitable work to support our most valuable asset – our people.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Lead the preparation of assigned detailed cost estimates for heavy civil construction work spanning utility, renewable, and infrastructure projects
Lead estimate reviews and approvals
Collaborate with senior leadership on project selection, backlog planning, revenue forecasting, margin expectations, and risk strategies
Develop labor units, crew structures, and production models primarily in alignment with IBEW Outside Line Construction Agreement classifications and jurisdictional rules
Apply prevailing wage assessments and adjustments as applicable according to State, Federal, IRA, and similar requirements
Review and interpret project plans, geotechnical documentation, specifications, standards, design drawings, addenda, and contract requirements
Ensure accuracy and consistency of quantity take-offs, pricing methodologies, and estimate structure
Develop risk assessments and contingency models
Work with Business Operations to identify commercial risks and opportunities
Solicit and secure subcontractor and supplier bids for scope, cost effectiveness, compliance, and risk
Ensure alignment between estimate, schedule, construction plan, and proposal deliverables
Conduct detailed pre-bid reviews with Operations, Safety, and Project Management to confirm constructability and compliance with IBEW and client standards.
Develop, maintain, and utilize production rates in collaboration with construction operation management teams
Participate in client meetings, project walkdowns, and industry events
Identify cost-saving opportunities, alternative construction methods, and value engineering options
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of market pricing, union labor rates, and industry best practices
Mentor and provide technical guidance to other estimators and personnel as applicable
Oversee preparation of complete and compliant bid packages, including all internal and client-required documentation
Present estimate overview and details in reviews with construction operations teams and in senior management review/approval meetings
SKILLS & COMPETENCIES
• Advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite and office 365
• High level of autonomy, accountability, and decision-making capability
• Leadership, mentoring, and team development capabilities
• Ability to operate effectively in high-pressure, deadline-driven bid environments
• Advanced-level understanding of heavy civil and utility construction estimating practices
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple large-scale pursuits under tight deadlines
• Excellent customer service and relationship building skills; ability to interact professionally and knowledgeably with a wide variety of individuals
• Strategic thinker with strong commercial and operational awareness
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
• Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field or commensurate field construction/management experience
• 10 years of progressive estimating experience in heavy civil, renewable, or utility construction
• Demonstrated experience leading large, complex, or multi-discipline estimates
• Proven track record of winning profitable work and managing estimate risk
• Advanced proficiency with estimating software HCSS Heavy Bid and MS Excel – or similar estimating platforms
• Experience with ViewPoint Vista or similar ERP / construction management programs
At Outback Contractors, Inc. and Basin Enterprises, Inc., we are proud to be family-owned companies built on trust, hard work, and long-term relationships. With decades of experience, we have earned a reputation for safety, quality, and reliability—delivering expertise in heavy civil construction, utility support, substation, renewables, T&D line work, and traffic control. By combining the agility of specialized crews with the resources of an established enterprise, we provide the capabilities and confidence on which our customers can rely.
Our culture reflects our family values: collaboration, accountability, and care for our people. We believe in empowering our teams, fostering growth, and building lasting partnerships rooted in respect and integrity.
Guided by our mission – “We Solve, We Build, We Deliver – One Handshake at a Time.” – we go beyond building infrastructure. We build trust, strengthen communities, and deliver results that stand the test of time.
Our projects are regulated by federal and state laws which require all employees to successfully pass criminal background checks, MVR, and drug tests (pre-employment and random testing).
Salary : $150,000 - $200,000