Estimator (Wendell)
Job Summary: Marks Clearing & Grading is seeking an experienced and motivated Estimator to join our preconstruction and estimating team. This position plays a critical role in identifying, evaluating, and securing profitable site-development opportunities throughout our market. The Estimator will be responsible for developing accurate and competitive estimates for heavy civil and site-development projects, including clearing, mass earthwork, erosion control, storm drainage, water and sewer utilities, aggregate base, concrete, paving, and related scopes of work. Key Responsibilities: · Prepare complete and accurate estimates for site-development and heavy civil construction projects as directed by the Chief Estimator. · Review plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, addenda, contracts, and other bid documents to develop a comprehensive understanding of project requirements. · Perform and verify detailed quantity takeoffs for earthwork, utilities, storm drainage, erosion control, paving, concrete, and other civil scopes. · Analyze earthwork quantities, cut/fill balances, haul requirements, material handling, and site logistics. · Develop labor and equipment crews, production rates, durations, and associated costs based on anticipated construction means and methods. · Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure complete scope coverage and competitive pricing. · Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, project risks, opportunities, and potential value-engineering alternatives. · Attend pre-bid meetings and conduct site visits to evaluate existing conditions, access, logistics, haul routes, material sources, and other factors affecting project cost. · Develop bid strategies in collaboration with estimating leadership, operations, and executive management. · Prepare estimate summaries, clarifications, exclusions, qualifications, and final proposals. · Participate in final estimate reviews and clearly communicate assumptions, risks, and opportunities. · Maintain accurate historical pricing, production data, subcontractor information, and estimating records. · Participate in project handoff meetings to ensure a complete transfer of estimating assumptions, commitments, and project strategy to operations. · Review estimated versus actual project performance and incorporate lessons learned into future estimates. · Develop and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, engineers, owners, and other industry partners. · Assist in mentoring and developing Junior Estimators and other members of the preconstruction team. Qualifications: · Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or a related field; equivalent heavy civil construction experience will also be considered. Years of experience can also be considered in leu of a degree. · 3–7 years of estimating, project management, project engineering, or field experience in heavy civil or site-development construction. · Demonstrated knowledge of grading, earthwork, underground utilities, storm drainage, erosion control, paving, and related civil construction activities. · Strong understanding of construction means and methods, equipment capabilities, crew configurations, and production rates. · Ability to independently read and interpret civil construction drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents. · Experience with construction estimating, digital takeoff, and earthwork modeling software including AGTEK and HCSS HeavyBid. · Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other construction-related technology. · Strong mathematical, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. · Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously. · Strong written and verbal communication skills. · Ability to work collaboratively with estimating, project management, field operations, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients. Physical Requirements: Ability to spend time on job sites as needed. Must be able to sit for extended periods when working on estimates.