Ralph L Wadsworth is looking for an Estimator- Heavy Civil/HighwayRalph L. Wadsworth Construction (RLW) is a proven leader in heavy civil construction, with over five decades of experience delivering complex, high-impact infrastructure projects across the western United States. Our expertise spans highways, bridges, rail, transit, and structural concrete - and we're continuing to grow.
As part of the
Sterling Infrastructure family, RLW offers the strength and resources of a national organization, paired with the agility and close-knit culture of a trusted regional builder.
We're seeking
Estimators with deep civil construction experience, a strategic mindset, and a passion for building accurate, competitive bids - while helping mentor and develop junior team members.
Position Description Estimator - Key Responsibilities- Lead the Estimating Process: Analyze proposal specifications, drawings, and related documents, and participate in pre-bid meetings to define the full scope of work and develop a comprehensive estimating plan.
- Leverage Data-Driven Insights: Review and interpret historical cost reports, production data, and records to establish accurate unit costs and man-hour estimates.
- Develop Comprehensive Estimates: Prepare complete, detailed estimates for assigned projects, incorporating takeoffs, subcontracting strategies, and full compliance with proposal requirements.
- Ensure Accuracy & Documentation: Maintain organized electronic and paper files as complete backup for all estimate figures and assumptions.
- Stay at the Forefront of the Industry: Maintain professional and technical expertise through continued education, industry publications, networking, and active participation in professional associations.
- Engage with Senior Leadership: Confidently present estimates and strategies in senior-level meetings, including agenda preparation, minute-taking, and distribution of supporting materials.
- Mentor the Next Generation: Guide and develop junior estimators, sharing expertise and best practices to strengthen the overall estimating team.
Position RequirementsWe're looking for an
Estimator who thrives on building precise, competitive bids from the ground up-someone who doesn't just read the plans but owns the numbers, the strategy, and the outcome. You'll be a key player in shaping high-profile heavy civil and highway projects, bringing both technical mastery and leadership presence to the table.
- Proven Expertise: 4-7+ years of heavy civil/highway estimating experience-preferably with underground utility work-and a history of winning $50-$100 million projects through bottom-up estimating strategies.
- Educational Foundation: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management preferred; extensive technical training and proven field experience considered in lieu of degree.
- Master of the Tools:
- Bid2Win expertise, with a track record of creating accurate, well-structured estimates from the first takeoff to the final bid submission.
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Takeoff software such as AgTEK, Bluebeam, or Planswift
- Scheduling software such as Primavera
- HCSS HeavyBid or Hard Dollar EOS experience a plus
- Strategic Estimating Skills: Known for building estimates from scratch-analyzing labor, equipment, materials, and subcontractor inputs in detail-while still keeping the overall bid competitive and profitable.
- Project Delivery Savvy: Familiarity with CMAR, CMGC, and Design-Build approaches to adapt estimates to various delivery models.
- Influential Communicator: Confident, clear, and persuasive-able to present to senior leadership, negotiate with subcontractors, and collaborate effectively with field teams.
- Mentor & Leader: Dedicated to developing the next generation of estimators, sharing proven techniques, and fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and winning bids.
This is your opportunity to lead from the front-
owning the estimating process from the first plan review to the final handshake-and make your mark on projects that define communities for decades to come.
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