Estimator

Whitaker Construction • Brigham City, UT

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive cost estimates and bid packages for heavy civil and underground utility construction projects. This role analyzes plans, specifications, and project documentation to determine scope, materials, labor, equipment, production rates, risk exposure, and overall project costs. The Estimator plays a key role in bid strategy, profitability analysis, and successful project turnover to operations.

Whitaker Construction, founded in 1953, has over 70 years of experience in the heavy civil and underground utility construction industry. Whitaker, an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) company, has become one of the largest contractors in the intermountain area with more than 600 employees and nearly 70 crews. We perform sanitary sewer, storm drain, culinary water, irrigation, earthwork, roadway construction, dams, landfills, natural gas pipelines, industrial piping, and telecommunication projects primarily in Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Wyoming, Colorado, and Oregon.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 5 years of heavy civil or underground utility estimating experience (10+ years preferred).
• Strong understanding of heavy civil construction methods, production rates, and cost controls.
• Proven ability to manage multiple bids of varying size and complexity.
• Advanced knowledge of reading and interpreting plans, specifications, and contracts.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work extended hours to meet bid deadlines.
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to walk, stand, kneel, crouch, climb, reach, and balance.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and jobsite environments.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Viewpoint, Bid2Win, AGTEK, On-Screen Takeoff, Primavera P6, Trimble Business Center, or similar estimating software.
• Experience with risk analysis and value engineering.

Responsibilities

• Learn and apply company estimating policies and procedures.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and conduct site evaluations.
• Analyze plans, specifications, and reports to prepare detailed quantity take-offs.
• Develop labor, material, and equipment cost estimates using company software.
• Compare take-off quantities to bid forms to ensure accuracy.
• Solicit and compile subcontractor and supplier quotes.
• Submit RFIs and clarify discrepancies with owners, engineers, vendors, and subcontractors.
• Evaluate alternative construction methods and cost-saving opportunities.
• Assess project risk exposure and profitability.
• Participate in bid reviews and ensure timely submission of complete bids.
• Coordinate successful handoff of awarded projects to Project Managers.
• Track project costs against estimates during construction.
• Maintain strong relationships with subcontractors and vendors.

Benefits

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Employees earn shares in the company – All employees have ownership in the company and its success.
• Competitive wages
• Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Short Term Disability, Supplemental Insurance
• 401 K and Match
• Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Personal Days
• Quarterly Incentive Program (profit sharing)
• Referral Bonuses
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

What This Job Offers

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