The company is a well-established and growing civil contractor specializing in underground utilities, pipeline work, grading, and structural scopes. With a strong reputation for delivering complex infrastructure projects, the company is known for its operational excellence, safety culture, and ability to consistently win and execute high-value work.
As part of its continued growth, the organization is seeking a strategic leader to elevate its estimating function and support long-term business objectives.
About the Position
The company is seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead and scale the estimating department in their Los Angeles office. This executive-level role will oversee all aspects of bid strategy, cost estimating, and proposal development while ensuring accurate, competitive, and profitable project pursuits.
The Chief Estimator will partner closely with Operations, Project Management, and Executive Leadership to drive business development, forecasting, and strategic growth initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and manage the Estimating Department, including estimators, coordinators, and support staff
Oversee full bid lifecycle: takeoffs, cost analysis, subcontractor/vendor solicitation, and proposal preparation
Develop and implement estimating strategies to ensure competitive and profitable bids
Review plans, specifications, and bid documents to identify risks and opportunities
Approve final pricing, including labor, equipment, materials, and markups
Maintain and enhance cost databases, production rates, and historical pricing data
Collaborate with Operations to validate constructability, means and methods, and production assumptions
Manage pre-bid meetings, RFIs, job walks, and scope clarifications
Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, vendors, and clients
Support business development efforts and long-term pursuit strategies
Standardize estimating tools, templates, and processes
Lead bid handoff meetings and support contract reviews
Forecast workload, staffing needs, and pipeline activity
Mentor and develop estimating staff, supporting succession planning
Requirements
High school diploma or GED required
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Business, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
10+ years of construction estimating experience
5+ years in a senior or leadership estimating role
Strong experience in underground utilities, pipeline, grading, and civil construction
Experience with large-scale projects or high-volume bid environments preferred
Advanced knowledge of civil and underground construction estimating
Advanced proficiency in Excel and estimating software (e.g., HCSS, B2W, or similar)
Strong understanding of production rates, labor and equipment costing, and market conditions
Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
High level of discretion handling confidential financial and strategic information