Chief Estimator

The Dutra Group•Petaluma, CA

15d•$150,000 - $185,000

About The Position

Chief Estimator Summary The Chief Estimator is responsible for overseeing the estimating department and ensuring accurate and competitive cost estimates for construction projects. This role involves managing a team of estimators, coordinating with project managers and superintendents, and developing strategies to win bids. The Chief Estimator will properly task individuals with assignments and work with each one to determine the proper workload that can be accomplished. The chief estimator is expected to perform estimating tasks and focus their attention on more complex projects task and train employees to perform more routine estimating functions. The Chief Estimator is responsible for complete, accurate estimates for all contract types. Collects and analyzes all project costs, including raw materials, labor, equipment and tooling to ensure estimates. Identifies and quantify potential risks and cost uncertainties to ensure costing models capture the full range of potential costs. Updates costs as necessary based on new information and project scope changes.

Requirements

Thorough understanding of standard estimating process
Excellent listening skills and strong communication skills
Excellent organization, prioritization and time management skills
Excellent oral and written business communication skills
A strong work ethic and a “can-do” attitude
Ability to read and understand construction drawings and specifications with emphasis on grading plans
Knowledge of planting, seeding (including hydroseeding), irrigation and plant maintenance.
Creative and innovative approaches to solve solutions on a project-by-project basis
College degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering is required
15+ years of experience as a professional construction estimator, preferably within our core markets
5+ years in a leadership role
Proficiency with computer skills in Microsoft Office suite, estimating database software (HCSS Heavy Bid highly desired), take-off software (on-screen take-off, Planswift, Bluebeam etc.), Construction bid invitation and bid management software (Smart Bid Net), Scheduling software skills (MS Project or Primavera P6) and knowledge of MS operating systems, Excel & MS Word.

Responsibilities

Managing all Hanford employees that are designated to the estimating department and any Dutra Staff that may be assisting the Hanford Estimating Efforts.
Make sure that all employees that are working under him/her follow all estimating Dutra Standard Operating Procedures (DSOPs) and the following: Proper File Management using established company systems Appropriate Solicitation of Vendors and Subcontractors
Annual review and Modification (if needed) of DSOPs to refresh and retain staff of estimating standard practices. All modifications will be reviewed by the Director of Preconstruction and VP of Estimating.
Schedule the following meetings with appropriate Team Members. Project Kickoff Meetings Means and Methods Bid Reviews Bid Closeouts The following team members may need to be present at the above meetings, (VP of Estimating, COO, Director of Preconstruction, Director of Operations, Estimators, Superintendents, Project Managers, Project Engineers, Project Coordinators, Foremen, Estimating Admins)
Holding bid reviews that showcase the following elements of the Project and Estimate: High Risk Items Payment Terms and Conditions Crew (Labor and Equipment) Selection Project Schedule and Contract Time
Properly close out open bid items to ensure that indirect costs and margin are spread appropriately.
Assist Estimating Coordinators on all bid documents and write ups required for each bid.
Works with Director of Preconstruction on CAPEX for the year
Attends monthly managers meetings
Handling assigned projects from initial solicitation through handoff to project team
Ability to look beyond the information that has been given, take initiative to gather additional information and work to provide a complete cost evaluation
Ability to make reliable predictions as it relates to cost and be comfortable estimating all scopes of work.
Incorporate cost history from prior projects into estimates that require similar scopes of work.
Ability to understand heavy equipment utilization and how to obtain detailed production rates based on anticipated crews.
Manage time appropriately to coordinate quantity take-offs and solicitations for materials, subcontractors, and professional services.
Knowledge of public works bid packages regarding prevailing wages, minority & small business participation, and final proposal details.
Ensure that all components of an estimate are included in the estimate and that there is an ample trail of documented cost evidence.
Ability to prepare conceptual cost estimates and studies from schematic or feasibility-level documentation
Must be able to collaborate with project team members for estimate reviews, risk analysis, staffing needs and project requirements.
Excellent time management skills and the ability to work under pressure in meeting specific project-driven deadlines.
Ability to read and understand permit documents from CDFW, USACE and other agencies when preparing an estimate. Having the ability to apply the permit conditions into the estimates that may or may not be part of the plans and specifications.
Responsible for other reasonable activities not named which are required by management/leadership.