Chief Estimator-Heavy Civil/Highway

Kimmel & Associates • Newark, NJ

21d

About The Position

Our client, an established heavy civil construction contractor with more than 50 years of history, is seeking a Chief Estimator – Heavy Civil / Highway to lead estimating efforts throughout the Northeast, primarily in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The role works directly with the Head of Preconstruction to oversee large, complex infrastructure estimates and support regional growth. The successful candidate will bring substantial heavy civil and highway estimating experience, public-sector bidding knowledge, and the ability to lead teams, develop competitive pricing strategies, and manage multiple high-value pursuits.

Requirements

• 10+ years of progressive estimating experience in heavy civil and highway construction.
• Demonstrated experience leading estimates for large, complex public and/or private infrastructure projects.
• Proven track record of developing competitive bids and supporting successful project awards.
• Knowledge of state Department of Transportation (DOT) and public agency bidding requirements.
• Experience mentoring or managing junior estimators and coordinating estimating team workloads.
• Working knowledge of DBE, SBE, and M/WBE compliance requirements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and estimating software such as AGTEK, Bluebeam, HCSS Heavy Bid, or comparable platforms.
• Experience with Procore or similar bid management software and FollowupCRM or comparable CRM systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and time-management skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to manage competing deadlines, exercise sound judgment, collaborate across teams, and independently take ownership of estimating responsibilities.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field; equivalent heavy civil or highway construction industry experience will be considered.
• Previous experience as a Senior Estimator, Lead Estimator, or Chief Estimator.
• Familiarity with the New Jersey, New York, and/or Pennsylvania construction markets.

Responsibilities

• Lead estimating for large, complex heavy civil and highway projects, from initial project review and quantity takeoffs through final bid preparation and submission.
• Maintain the regional bid schedule and balance estimating workloads, staffing requirements, deadlines, and project priorities.
• Participate in bid/no-bid decisions, risk assessments, and pricing strategy development.
• Lead weekly bid strategy meetings to evaluate project requirements, identify risks, and establish competitive bidding approaches.
• Collaborate with the Head of Preconstruction to develop and implement regional estimating and preconstruction strategies.
• Review estimates prepared by junior estimators to ensure accuracy, completeness, competitiveness, and compliance with bid requirements.
• Mentor and develop estimating personnel, promoting technical excellence and consistent estimating practices.
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and other industry partners to support accurate pricing and successful bids.
• Ensure compliance with applicable DBE, SBE, and M/WBE requirements.
• Coordinate estimating activities across multiple pursuits while maintaining organization, communication, and follow-through.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Corporate profit-sharing program.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Vacation, holiday, and sick pay.
• Year-end performance bonus.
• Software training and professional development as needed.
• Opportunities for continued career growth within an established, family-owned organization.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior