Senior Estimator - Heavy Civil (Public Infrastructure & Utilities)

AlphaHire

Los Angeles, California, United States permanent

Posted: May 5, 2026

Required Skills

Job Description

We are seeking a Senior Estimator / Chief Estimator to lead public works estimating for a heavy civil contractor specializing in underground utilities and municipal infrastructure.

This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for owning the full bid lifecycle—from strategy through submission—within a self-perform general engineering contractor environment. You will play a critical role in driving backlog, revenue, and project success through accurate, competitive estimating.

Responsibilities

• Lead full-cycle estimating for public works heavy civil projects (utilities, infrastructure, municipal)
• Develop detailed cost estimates (labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, production rates)
• Review plans, specs, and civil drawings to define scope and identify risks
• Manage bid schedules, deadlines, and compliance requirements
• Solicit, evaluate, and finalize subcontractor/vendor pricing
• Partner with field teams to validate means, methods, and production assumptions
• Analyze historical data and market trends to improve estimate accuracy
• Drive value engineering and cost optimization strategies
• Present final bid packages, including margin strategy and risk analysis
• Mentor junior estimators and establish best practices/processes

Requirements:
• 10+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil construction
• Strong background in underground utilities and public works projects
• Proven success leading and winning municipal/DOT/government bids
• Experience in a self-perform contractor environment (required)
• Full ownership of estimates (not just takeoffs/support)
• Ability to read and interpret civil plans, specs, and bid documents
• Experience with HCSS HeavyBid, Bluebeam, or similar tools
• Experience estimating projects in California public works market
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related (preferred)

Benefits:
• Competitive base salary + strong project pipeline
• High-impact leadership role with direct influence on bid strategy
• Established, financially stable contractor with long-term clients
• Collaborative, fast-paced environment with decision-making autonomy

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