Application InstructionsRalph L Wadsworth is looking for a SR Estimator- Heavy Civil/Highway
We're seeking
Senior 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 DescriptionSenior 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 a
Senior 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: 10+ 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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