Chief Estimator

Boudreau Pipeline•Corona, CA

36d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Chief Estimator is responsible for leading the Estimating Department and overseeing all aspects of bid preparation, cost estimating, takeoffs, and proposal development for underground utilities, pipeline work, grading, structures, and related scopes. This position establishes estimating strategies, develops standard processes, maintains cost databases, and ensures accurate, competitive, and profitable bids. The Chief Estimator works closely with Operations, Project Management, and Executive Leadership to support business development, forecasting, and strategic growth objectives.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
10+ years of construction estimating experience required.
5+ years in a senior estimator, lead estimator, or estimating management role required.
Valid driver’s license required.
Advanced knowledge of underground construction, utilities, and civil estimating.
Ability to analyze plans, specifications, and technical documents with strong attention to detail.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to mentor and develop a high-performing team.
Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
Advanced Excel skills; proficiency in estimating software (HCSS, B2W, or similar).
Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to manage multiple bids, deadlines, and competing priorities.
Strong understanding of production rates, cost structures, labor/equipment pricing, and market trends.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive financial and competitive information.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.
Equivalent industry experience considered.
Experience estimating wet utilities, pipeline, grading, underground, and civil construction strongly preferred.
Experience in high-volume bidding environments or large-scale projects preferred.
Professional certifications (CPE, DBIA, etc.) preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage the Estimating Department, including estimators, bid coordinators, takeoff staff, and support personnel.
Oversee complete bid processes including quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, subcontractor/vendor solicitation, and proposal preparation.
Develop estimating strategies and ensure competitive, accurate, and timely bid submissions.
Review project plans, specifications, addenda, and design documents to identify risks, opportunities, and bid requirements.
Maintain and refine historical cost data, production rates, and pricing databases.
Collaborate with Operations and Project Management to validate constructability, means and methods, and production expectations.
Approve final bid pricing, markups, labor, equipment, and material costs before submission.
Manage pre-bid meetings, job walks, RFI processes, and scope clarifications.
Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, vendors, and project owners.
Support business development efforts including prequalification packages and long-term pursuit strategies.
Oversee procurement of subcontractor quotes, ensuring proper scope alignment and competitive pricing.
Develop and maintain standardized estimating tools, templates, and processes.
Participate in contract reviews, scope meetings, and bid handoff meetings to Operations.
Forecast estimating workload, staffing needs, and pipeline volume.
Mentor, train, and develop estimating staff; support succession planning within the department.
Ensure all estimating activities follow company policies, safety requirements, and ethical bidding standards.
Maintain confidentiality of company financials, strategies, and competitive information.
Performs other related duties as required or assigned. Responsibilities may be modified or added based on operational needs and business priorities.