Excavation Estimator

R. Carlson & Sons, Inc. is a trusted, family-owned leader in commercial and industrial general contracting and excavation. We’ve proudly served the Chicagoland area for 75 years, delivering high-quality construction services with integrity, precision, and professionalism.

We’re looking for an experienced Excavation Estimator / Project Manager to join our growing excavation division. This hybrid role will manage both the estimating and project management aspects of sitework projects from bid to completion. If you're passionate about earthwork, estimating, and client success, we want to meet you.

About the Work

Our excavation projects typically range from $20,000 to $1,000,000 in size, covering 0.5 to 5-acre sites. Common scopes include:

• Earthwork and grading
• Site stripping, cut/fill, and fine grading
• Foundation excavation
• Underground storage tank installation/removal
• Asphalt/concrete removal and prep
• Stone, topsoil, and black dirt placement
• Utility trenching and curb prep

We specialize in projects for gas stations, retail centers, strip malls, banks, restaurants, car washes, and health facilities.

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze blueprints, civil plans, and bid documents
• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs using Roctek
• Determine labor, material, and equipment costs for accurate bid pricing
• Prepare proposals, contracts, and change orders
• Attend pre-construction meetings and job site visits
• Coordinate with superintendents on field execution and schedules
• Submit invoices and track job costs
• Maintain strong communication and relationships with clients and team members

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience estimating and managing commercial excavation or sitework projects
• Proficient in reading civil, structural, and architectural plans
• Familiar with estimating software (Roctek preferred)
• Skilled in Microsoft Outlook and Excel
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Demonstrated leadership and ability to work independently or as part of a team
• Strong work ethic and commitment to client satisfaction

Location & Travel

• Based in Mokena, IL
• All projects located within 90 miles of the office
• Local travel to job sites and client meetings is required

Benefits

• Paid Weekly
• Performance Bonus
• Company Vehicle and Fuel Card
• Holidays
• PTO
• 401k Plan & Employer Match
• Medical, Vision, & Dental Insurance
• Long Term Disability
• Term Life Insurance

Why Join Us?

• Family-owned and operated for three generations
• Long-standing reputation for quality and integrity
• Competitive compensation
• Tight-knit, collaborative team environment
• Opportunities to grow in leadership and project responsibility
• Be part of building the future of Chicagoland — one site at a time

📩 Apply Today!