What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator (Local Applicants Only) position at Penna Construction?
The Junior Estimator supports the estimating team in preparing accurate and competitive bids for heavy civil and infrastructure projects including utilities, site work, and public works construction. This role is ideal for someone early in their estimating career who is detail-oriented, analytical, and eager to learn the full estimating process from bid review through project handoff.
The Junior Estimator will work closely with senior estimators, project managers, and operations to develop cost estimates, quantity takeoffs, and bid documentation while gaining hands-on exposure to construction means and methods.
Key Responsibilities
Estimating & Bid Support
- Assist in preparing cost estimates for heavy civil projects
- Perform quantity takeoffs from plans and specifications
- Review bid documents, drawings, and scopes of work
- Solicit and analyze subcontractor and supplier quotes
- Help build unit pricing for labor, equipment, and materials
- Support preparation of bid forms, schedules, and proposals
Cost Data & Analysis
- Maintain and update cost databases and historical pricing
- Assist with bid leveling and comparison
- Help identify scope gaps, risks, and assumptions
- Support value-engineering and alternate pricing exercises
Coordination & Handoff
- Participate in bid review meetings
- Assist with estimating turnover to project management after award
- Help organize bid files, takeoffs, and backup documentation
Learning & Development
- Learn estimating software, cost controls, and construction workflows
- Gain exposure to unit-price, cost-plus, and lump-sum bids
- Support continuous improvement of estimating processes
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field
or equivalent construction experience
- 1–3 years of experience in construction, estimating, or related role (internship experience acceptable)
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to read construction drawings and specifications
- Proficiency in Excel
Preferred
- Experience or coursework in heavy civil, utilities, or public works
- Familiarity with estimating software (e.g., HeavyBid, HCSS, Bluebeam,)
- Field experience or understanding of construction operations
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
Key Competencies
- Analytical and detail-oriented mindset
- Willingness to learn and take direction
- Strong time management skills
- Ability to work under bid deadlines
- Collaborative, team-focused attitude
Why Join Us
- Hands-on training and mentorship from experienced estimators
- Exposure to complex, large-scale civil projects
- Clear growth path to Estimator and Senior Estimator roles
- Supportive team environment with long-term career potential
- Competitive compensation and benefits
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $60,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Construction estimating: 2 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $60,000 - $80,000