Estimator

SUMMARY OF POSITION:

Top Grade Site Management, LLC is seeking an experienced, detail-oriented Senior Construction Estimator with a strong background in civil engineering and heavy site development. In this role, you will lead our bidding and pre-qualification processes, converting complex blueprints into accurate, competitive cost estimates.

The ideal candidate bridges the gap between the office and the field—pairing advanced digital skills (like CAD and Bulldozer GPS modeling) with practical, first-hand knowledge of heavy machinery operations, earthwork, and underground utility installation. Peak-Season Cross-Functional Support: Partner directly with Project Managers during high-volume periods to assist with project planning, resource scheduling, and operational sequencing to ensure projects transition seamlessly from bid to execution.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Key Responsibilities

1. Bid & Pre-Qualification Management

• End-to-End Bid Management: Lead the preparation, structuring, and submission of comprehensive cost estimates for public and private civil projects.
• Pre-Qualification Processes: Manage and write the documentation required to qualify our firm for specialized municipal, state, or private commercial rosters.
• Pre-Bid Meetings: Attend mandatory pre-bid meetings and site visits to assess field conditions, evaluate constraints, and identify project risks.

2. Civil Estimating & Takeoffs

• Quantity Takeoffs: Utilize CAD software to perform precise earthwork and utility takeoffs.
• Civil Scope Expertise: Build highly accurate models and cost structures specifically for mass excavation, grading, clearing, and laying pipe (storm, sanitary, and water mains).
• GPS Modeling: Prepare and review digital terrain models (DTMs) to be uploaded directly into Bulldozer GPS machine control systems for precision field grading.

3. Field Integration & Site Management

• Site Management Collaboration: Work closely with Project Managers and Site Superintendents to ensure estimated production rates match real-world field capabilities.
• Equipment Optimization: Apply a deep understanding of heavy equipment production (excavators, dozers, scrapers) to accurately estimate machine hours and fuel costs.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience: 5 to 10 years of dedicated civil estimating experience, with verifiable success in heavy civil, earthwork, or underground utility bidding.
• Field Fluency: Direct, practical knowledge of site management, pipeline installation, and structural excavation techniques.
• Software Proficiency:
• Advanced proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Civil 3D).
• Experience with earthwork takeoff software (e.g., AGTEK, InSite, or Bluebeam).
• Familiarity with 3D machine control setup (Trimble/Topcon GPS for bulldozers and excavators).
• Standard estimating platforms (e.g., HCSS HeavyBid, B2W, or Sage).
• Microsoft Excel
• Relationships & Negotiation: Proven track record of vetting and negotiating with subcontractors and material vendors to secure competitive edge pricing.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or equivalent hands-on field supervision/estimating experience.

Pay: $95,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

Salary : $95,000 - $125,000