Senior Estimator

Summary

The Senior Estimator leads the development of accurate and timely cost estimates for civil access construction supporting electric Transmission Right‑of‑Way (ROW) projects. The role focuses on access roads, work pads, matting programs, drainage and temporary structures, erosion and sediment control, and site restoration across diverse terrain and conditions. Success requires deep knowledge of heavy civil means and methods, utility client standards, environmental and permitting requirements, and the ability to coordinate cross‑functional teams while mentoring other estimators.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

· Prepare detailed, itemized estimates for Transmission ROW access scopes including: new and improved access roads; clearing and grubbing; grading, cut/fill and rock excavation; culverts and low‑water crossings; temporary bridge installation; swamp/timber mat installation and retrieval; work pad construction; stormwater BMPs; fencing and gates; traffic control; restoration and stabilization.

· Interpret plan/profile drawings, alignment sheets, KMZ/KML files, LiDAR/topographic surveys, soil maps, and field notes to perform accurate quantity takeoffs (earthwork volumes, drainage structures, mat counts, haul distances) and to validate access feasibility.

· Evaluate ROW constraints such as easements, landowner restrictions, environmental sensitivities (wetlands, streams, threatened and endangered species), and cultural resources; incorporate permit conditions, seasonal work windows, and environmental commitments into estimates and schedules.

· Develop realistic production rates and crew/equipment compositions based on terrain, access type, weather, mobilization/demobilization, and logistics; model indirect costs (preconstruction, surveying, QC, safety, traffic control, environmental compliance) and contingency.

· Solicit, level, and analyze subcontractor and supplier quotations for trucking, matting, bridge rentals, erosion control materials, aggregates, geosynthetics, seeding and restoration; ensure scope completeness and alignment with bid documents.

· Build structured estimates in InEight, including WBS/cost codes, resource libraries, labor and equipment rates, material pricing, markups, and escalation; maintain estimate files and audit trails for internal reviews.

· Prepare bid deliverables: clarifications, inclusions/exclusions, risk registers, proposed schedules, cash‑flow projections, and value‑engineering alternatives; participate in internal review boards and client presentations.

· Coordinate closely with transmission line engineers, construction managers, environmental/permitting teams, surveyors, and ROW agents to resolve scope, access, and constructability issues ahead of bid.

· Lead and mentor estimating staff—assign tasks, review takeoffs, perform QA/QC on estimates, and support professional growth through coaching and training.

· Conduct site visits and reconnaissance to validate access routes, assess terrain and permitting constraints, identify laydown yards and water sources, and confirm logistics for materials (e.g., mats, aggregates).

· Maintain historical cost databases and benchmarking for ROW access work; perform post‑bid and post‑project reviews to refine assemblies, production rates, and pricing assumptions.

Requirements

· Demonstrated expertise in heavy civil means and methods for Transmission ROW access construction (access roads, work pads, matting, temporary bridges/culverts, erosion and sediment control, restoration).

· Advanced proficiency in InEight estimating software; strong skills with Microsoft Excel and Bluebeam Revu; familiarity with Agtek and/or Autodesk Civil 3D for earthwork modeling and takeoffs; comfort with GIS tools (ArcGIS/QGIS/Google Earth) for route evaluation.

· Working knowledge of environmental compliance and permitting applicable to ROW access: SWPPP, NPDES, erosion/sediment control best practices, USACE Nationwide Permits, state/local permits (including DOT driveway/encroachment), and documentation requirements.

· Understanding of utility client standards and safety considerations for work near energized facilities; ability to plan and price traffic control in accordance with MUTCD and local agency requirements.

· Strong analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills with the ability to develop crews, production rates, unit pricing, and risk assessments for complex, linear projects.

· Excellent written and verbal communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills; able to present estimates and strategies to internal leadership and utility clients.

· Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines; willingness to travel to project sites and pre‑bid meetings and to work in remote and variable terrain.

· Valid driver’s license; ability to conduct field walks over uneven ground as part of pre‑bid reconnaissance.

Education and Experience

· Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred; equivalent combination of education and experience considered.

· Minimum of 5 years of heavy civil estimating experience, with at least 2 years focused on transmission utility or ROW access projects (access roads, matting programs, temporary bridges/culverts, erosion control, and restoration).

Pre‑Employment Physical Examination

Candidates who accept an offer of employment are required to undergo and successfully complete a pre‑employment physical examination. This exam ensures that all potential employees meet the necessary health and fitness standards for the role. The examination includes tests and evaluations conducted by a certified medical professional to assess overall physical health, identify any conditions that could interfere with job performance, and verify the candidate’s capability to safely perform the essential duties of the position. Completion and clearance of this physical are mandatory steps in the hiring process.