What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator Assistant - Excavating position at Thornapple Excavating?
Position: Estimator's Assistant
Date Posted: 1/22/2026
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
FT / PT Status: Full-Time
Who is Thornapple Excavating?
Over the last 40 years, Thornapple Excavating has expanded to become one of the most well-known names in commercial excavating in West Michigan. We are an industry leader in earthwork, utility installation, and other commercial excavating services. With a strong work ethic and attention to detail, customers can count on Thornapple Excavating, Inc. to deliver a high-quality product the first time, every time.
Job Summary:
The person in this role will assist the Estimator and Project Manager throughout the life cycle of our construction projects. They will complete detailed takeoffs for various sized jobs by working through light preconstruction paperwork and attend pre and post bid meetings. A big portion of this role is handling takeoffs in the office.
The ideal person to fill this need is someone with a passion for the skills trades/construction/excavation industry and preferably at least a year of some sort of skilled trades schooling. Technical/computer skills is a must. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who wants to learn our industry and grow in their career long-term with a very solid and reputable company in the industry.
Job Responsibilities:
Benefits Our Employees Enjoy:
Date Posted: 1/22/2026
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
FT / PT Status: Full-Time
Who is Thornapple Excavating?
Over the last 40 years, Thornapple Excavating has expanded to become one of the most well-known names in commercial excavating in West Michigan. We are an industry leader in earthwork, utility installation, and other commercial excavating services. With a strong work ethic and attention to detail, customers can count on Thornapple Excavating, Inc. to deliver a high-quality product the first time, every time.
Job Summary:
The person in this role will assist the Estimator and Project Manager throughout the life cycle of our construction projects. They will complete detailed takeoffs for various sized jobs by working through light preconstruction paperwork and attend pre and post bid meetings. A big portion of this role is handling takeoffs in the office.
The ideal person to fill this need is someone with a passion for the skills trades/construction/excavation industry and preferably at least a year of some sort of skilled trades schooling. Technical/computer skills is a must. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who wants to learn our industry and grow in their career long-term with a very solid and reputable company in the industry.
Job Responsibilities:
- Work with project managers on new job takeoffs and complete them on time, as well as all addendums and revisions to existing construction projects
- When necessary, attend pre and post bid meetings where any vague details can be confirmed to produce an accurate cost.
- Must be self-motivated and able to work independently with limited direction/oversite. Detail oriented is a must.
- Willing to learn and adapt to company methods while having the ability to bring fresh perspective at times
- Strong organizational skills, able to maintain multiple revisions for multiple ongoing projects
Benefits Our Employees Enjoy:
- Competitive pay
- 401(k) with company match
- 100% Employer paid medical, dental and vision Insurance
- Paid sick and vacation time, holiday pay
- Fun company events
- Company bonuses