As a key member of the Civil Construction leadership team, the Chief Estimator will be based in the company's main office and play a critical role in developing and advancing Baranko Brothers, Inc.'s estimating function. This position will establish the framework, standards, and systems needed to strengthen estimating operations while providing strategic insight that supports project pursuits, risk assessment, and informed business decisions. Working closely with executive leadership, project management, and field operations, the Chief Estimator will help shape how the company approaches opportunities and positions itself to win projects.
The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and analytical professional with a strong understanding of the heavy civil construction market, industry trends, and upcoming work in the region. The role requires sound judgment, strong business acumen, and the ability to create structure, improve processes, and drive results.
RESPONSIBLITIES- Lead and own estimating strategy from opportunity evaluation through bid submission, ensuring alignment with company objectives, market conditions, and pursuit priorities.
- Analyze plans, specifications, contracts, and project requirements to develop accurate estimates while identifying scope, risk, and opportunities.
- Lead and refine cost strategies, including labor, equipment, production rates, subcontractor pricing, and overall project approach.
- Facilitate bid reviews, pricing discussions, and pursuit decisions with executive leadership, project management, and operations teams.
- Evaluate project opportunities and risk factors to support informed bid/no-bid decisions and long-term business objectives.
- Establish and lead the development of a dedicated estimating function, including the processes, standards, systems, and best practices needed for long-term scalability
- Build and maintain estimating systems (HCSS HeavyBid), historical cost data, production rate analysis, and tools to support accurate forecasting and decision-making.
- Collaborate with project management and operations teams to align estimating strategies with successful project execution.
- Partner with executive leadership to evaluate market opportunities, support business planning, and influence long-term growth initiatives.
REQUIREMENTS- 7+ years of estimating experience within heavy civil construction, including earthwork, highway, utility, infrastructure, or related markets.
- Experience developing estimates and competitive bid strategies for large-scale civil construction projects from pursuit through submission.
- Experience with HCSS HeavyBid or similar estimating platforms preferred.
- Deep understanding of heavy civil construction means, methods, production, project execution, and cost development.
- Experience developing estimating processes, standards, and systems that improve consistency, accuracy, and decision-making.
- Knowledge of heavy civil construction markets, industry trends, and competitive positioning.
COMPETENCIES- Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making
- Analytical Judgement and Problem Solving
- Risk Assessment and Mitigation
- Financial Acumen and Cost Analysis
- Process Improvement and Operational Excellence
- Market Insight and Opportunity Evaluation
- Communication and Relationship Building
BENEFITS- Performance-Based Bonus Program
- Up to 4 Weeks of Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Volunteer Time Off (VTO)
- Company Vehicle, Phone, Laptop, and Corporate Card Provided
- Up to 100% Employer-Paid Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Match
- Health Savings Account
- Relocation Assistance Available
- Generous Years of Service Awards
- Referral Bonus up to $2500
- Continuous investment in employee development through programs including Vistage Leadership Training, BuildWitt, Heavy Construction Systems Specialists User Group Management (HCSS UGM), and various internal training.
- Active participation in industry associations, leadership networks, and conferences, including Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), North Dakota Construction Leadership Committee (NDCLC), the Dirt World Summit, and more.
