Estimator

HDJ & Associates, Inc.•New Kensington, PA

52d

About The Position

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive bids for heavy highway and infrastructure projects where the company serves as the General/Prime Contractor. This role requires a strong construction background, attention to detail, and the ability to analyze project data to develop cost-effective, compliant, and winning proposals. The Estimator will work closely with project managers, engineers, field staff, subcontractors, and senior leadership to position the company for success in both state and federal markets. Success in this role requires a competitive mindset with a drive to “win the work,” balancing attention to detail with an aggressive approach to bidding.

Requirements

3+ years of practical construction experience in estimating, field operations, or project management; heavy highway and PennDOT experience. A degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field is a plus but not required.
Demonstrated estimating ability with strong math, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret cost history, productivity data, and bid tab analyses to support accurate, competitive pricing.
Proficiency in HCSS HeavyBid, HeavyJob, and Microsoft Office Suite, or the ability to quickly learn these systems.
Knowledge of construction means, methods, and sequencing for highway, bridge, and infrastructure projects.
Strong organizational skills and willingness to perform administrative tasks necessary to support the estimating function.
Effective interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate with team members, subcontractors, and agency representatives.
Competitive mindset with a drive to “win the work,” able to balance attention to detail with an aggressive approach to bidding.
Commitment to safety, quality, compliance, and ethical bidding practices.

Nice To Haves

A degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field is a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

Pre-Bid Administration
Monitor and track advertised projects; assemble and maintain bid folders.
Coordinate bonding, insurance, and railroad protection requirements.
Attend and document pre-bid meetings and site visits to assess project risks and opportunities.
Estimating & Takeoffs
Analyze plans, specifications, and contract documents to understand scope, risks, and cost drivers.
Perform detailed quantity takeoffs, preparing labor, equipment, material, and unit-price estimates to develop pricing strategies that balance competitiveness with profitability.
Incorporate constructability, resources, productivity, and scheduling considerations to ensure estimates are accurate and executable.
Subcontractor & Vendor Management
Prepare clear scopes of work for subcontractors and suppliers.
Solicit, track, and evaluate proposals/quotes to secure reliable coverage of all bid items.
Document acknowledgements and ensure coverage of all contract requirements, including DBE/MBE/WBE participation.
Bid Preparation & Addenda Management
Assemble and submit complete bid packages using estimating systems (HCSS HeavyBid/HeavyJob and related tools).
Track and incorporate addenda, clarifications, and revisions into estimates.
Support post-bid activities including cost-code setup, agency reporting, and documentation.
Compliance
Ensure adherence to all federal, state, and agency requirements, including:
Prevailing wage compliance
DBE/MBE/WBE documentation and reporting
Bonding, insurance, and other contract requirements
Data & Systems Management
Maintain and update estimating data resources, including:
Cost history and unit pricing databases
Bid-tab analyses and takeoff libraries
Vendor and subcontractor databases
Support continuous improvement by analyzing historical performance and bid outcomes.
Collaboration & Project Handoff
Work with operations staff to ensure seamless transfer of estimating assumptions and requirements following award.
Provide support to project teams to align budgets, schedules, and productivity expectations with awarded scope.
Winning Work and Profitability:
Ensure all estimates and bid submissions reflect the company’s commitment to safety, quality, profitability, and long-term client relationships.
Continuously seek opportunities to improve estimating practices and strengthen the company’s competitive position.
Additional responsibilities may be assigned by the Chief Estimator, including occasional travel to projects and after-hours bid support (10-15 times a year to meet project deadlines).