Head Estimator, Heavy Civil & Underground Utilities

We’re looking for an experienced Head Estimator with deep expertise in underground utilities and heavy civil construction to lead estimating and preconstruction operations for infrastructure projects across the Los Angeles, California area.

This leadership role focuses on developing accurate cost estimates, managing bid strategies, and guiding the estimating team to successfully compete for public works and private civil construction projects. The ideal candidate brings strong knowledge of wet and dry utilities, site development, and municipal infrastructure projects within Southern California.

In this role, you will collaborate closely with project managers, operations leadership, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure accurate budgets and successful transitions from the bidding phase into construction execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead all estimating and preconstruction activities for underground utilities and civil infrastructure projects
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for water, sewer, storm drain, fire line, gas, electrical, and dry utility systems
• Review project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and bid documentation
• Perform quantity takeoffs for excavation, trenching, shoring, backfill, paving, and site development work
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier proposals
• Develop competitive bid strategies for public works, municipal, and negotiated projects
• Analyze labor productivity, equipment costs, and material pricing to produce accurate estimates
• Identify project risks and recommend value engineering opportunities during preconstruction
• Coordinate with Project Managers and Operations teams during bid handoff
• Maintain historical cost data, track bid results, and monitor construction market trends
• Mentor and supervise junior estimators and preconstruction staff

Requirements

We’re looking for an experienced Head Estimator with deep expertise in underground utilities and heavy civil construction to lead estimating and preconstruction operations for infrastructure projects across the Los Angeles, California area.

This leadership role focuses on developing accurate cost estimates, managing bid strategies, and guiding the estimating team to successfully compete for public works and private civil construction projects. The ideal candidate brings strong knowledge of wet and dry utilities, site development, and municipal infrastructure projects within Southern California.

In this role, you will collaborate closely with project managers, operations leadership, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure accurate budgets and successful transitions from the bidding phase into construction execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead all estimating and preconstruction activities for underground utilities and civil infrastructure projects
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for water, sewer, storm drain, fire line, gas, electrical, and dry utility systems
• Review project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and bid documentation
• Perform quantity takeoffs for excavation, trenching, shoring, backfill, paving, and site development work
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier proposals
• Develop competitive bid strategies for public works, municipal, and negotiated projects
• Analyze labor productivity, equipment costs, and material pricing to produce accurate estimates
• Identify project risks and recommend value engineering opportunities during preconstruction
• Coordinate with Project Managers and Operations teams during bid handoff
• Maintain historical cost data, track bid results, and monitor construction market trends
• Mentor and supervise junior estimators and preconstruction staff

Benefits

Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience.

Benefits may include:

• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
• Paid time off and recognized holidays
• Vehicle allowance or company vehicle
• Long-term leadership growth opportunities