Senior Estimator (Wet Utilities Division)
Gables Search Group
Long Beach, CA
Senior Estimator – Wet Utilities
Location: Greater Los Angeles, Orange County, Inland Empire
Salary: Commensurate with Experience
Employment Type: Full-Time
General Summary
The Senior Estimator is responsible for managing the full estimating process for underground wet utility projects — from conceptual estimates to final bid submission and project handoff. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in water, sewer, and storm drain systems, as well as pump stations and treatment facilities. This role requires extensive experience with self-performing heavy civil contractors operating in urban street environments.
Key Responsibilities
Prepare detailed estimates for wet utility projects including water, sewer, and storm drain systems.
Develop cost estimates from concept through completion, including transitioning winning bids to operations.
Analyze project plans, specifications, and requirements to determine scope and cost.
Evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Incorporate field input and historical data to refine estimates and construction methodologies.
Support operations with change order pricing, value engineering, and alternative method analysis.
Maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and project partners.
Ensure all estimates are compliant with company standards and reflect realistic project execution strategies.
Requirements
Minimum 5 years of experience estimating wet utility projects (water, sewer, storm drain).
Strong knowledge of underground utility construction, paving, and concrete work as related to utility installations.
Must have worked for a self-performing general engineering contractor performing at-risk work (not CM or government-only estimating).
Experience working on urban street projects with existing utilities and traffic conditions.
Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with operations teams.
Software Knowledge
Required: Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
Preferred Experience In:
Hard Dollar or HeavyBid or HCSS estimating software
Bluebeam (PDF markup & takeoff)
Primavera P6 or other scheduling software
AutoCAD or similar design review tools
Industry Specialties
Underground Construction • Wet Utilities • General Engineering • Structure Construction • Water & Sewer Pipeline • Oil & Gas Pipeline • Power & Communication Line
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive Salary: Based on experience
Comprehensive Benefits:
100% employer-paid Health, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance for employee
Health insurance coverage for employee and family
Company vehicle and gas card provided
401(k) Retirement Plan
Profit-sharing plan
About the Company
Gables Search Group
Gables Search Group headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio has been a leader in search and placement nationwide since 2002. Our company specializes in both direct and contract (temporary) staffing in all industries and disciplines.
At Gables Search Group, we connect exceptional professionals with outstanding organizations. Our commitment to integrity, excellence, partnership, innovation, and respect sets us apart. With a personalized approach to recruitment, we ensure the perfect match between candidates and employers.
Whether you are a talented professional seeking new opportunities or an organization looking to build a high-performing team, Gables Search Group is here to guide you through the journey. Our success is built on the success of our clients and candidates, and we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the careers and businesses we serve.