Chief Estimator – Civil/Site Development

Company Overview

Vertical Earth is seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Estimator to lead estimating efforts for civil construction and site development projects throughout Georgia and surrounding markets. This leadership position is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the bidding and preconstruction process, developing estimating strategies, managing estimating personnel, and ensuring accurate, competitive, and profitable project proposals.

The Chief Estimator will play a critical role in the company’s growth by evaluating opportunities, managing risk, building relationships with owners and subcontractors, and supporting operational teams from project pursuit through award.

Essential Responsibilities

• Lead all estimating and preconstruction activities for site development, grading, excavation, utilities, roadway, paving, concrete, and heavy civil projects.
• Manage and mentor estimators and support staff while establishing estimating standards and best practices.
• Review plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, bid documents, and contract requirements.
• Develop comprehensive cost estimates including labor, equipment, material, subcontractor, and indirect costs.
• Identify project risks and develop pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness and profitability.
• Oversee quantity takeoffs and estimate preparation for multiple projects simultaneously.
• Conduct bid reviews with executive leadership and operations teams.
• Analyze historical project performance and utilize production data to improve estimating accuracy.
• Coordinate with project managers, superintendents, and field personnel to validate production assumptions and construction methodologies.
• Develop and maintain relationships with owners, developers, engineers, vendors, and subcontractors.
• Evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals and negotiate pricing when appropriate.
• Participate in project handoff meetings to ensure successful transition from estimating to operations.
• Track bid results and market trends to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Assist with budgeting, forecasting, strategic planning, and business development initiatives.
• Support contract review and scope analysis during project award negotiations.

Qualifications Required

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of civil construction estimating experience.
• Minimum of 5 years in a senior estimating or estimating management role.
• Extensive experience estimating site development and heavy civil construction projects.
• Strong understanding of grading, earthwork, storm drainage, sanitary sewer, water utilities, retaining walls, paving, and concrete construction.
• Experience with public and private sector projects.
• Ability to analyze complex plans, specifications, and contract documents.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel as needed.

Preferred

• Experience estimating projects for developers, municipalities, DOT agencies, and commercial site development clients.
• Experience with alternative delivery methods and negotiated work.
• Professional Engineer (PE) or Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) certification is a plus.
• Experience leading teams and implementing estimating systems and processes.

Vertical Earth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Please confirm you have a strong understanding of grading, earthwork, storm drainage, sanitary sewer, water utilities, retaining walls, paving, and concrete construction.

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• civil construction estimating: 10 years (Preferred)
• senior estimating or estimating management: 5 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Lutz, FL 33558 (Required)

Work Location: In person