Estimator-Heavy Civil/Highway

Kimmel & Associates • Newark, NJ

1d

About The Position

Our client is an established heavy civil construction contractor specializing in highway infrastructure, asphalt paving, and site preparation. The organization emphasizes safety, quality, and customer service and offers a collaborative team environment with a modern office and resources to support professional growth.

The company is seeking an experienced Civil Estimator – Heavy Highway to prepare and submit competitive bids for infrastructure projects across New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, and the New York City metropolitan area. Project scopes include site preparation, underground utilities, highways, roadways, bridges, and asphalt paving. Working with preconstruction and project teams, the Estimator develops comprehensive cost estimates, evaluates project risks, coordinates with subcontractors and suppliers, and helps establish competitive pricing strategies. The role requires a strong understanding of heavy civil construction means and methods, analytical skills, and the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of experience as a Field Engineer, Project Engineer, or Construction Estimator.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, preferably Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or Engineering Technology.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, technical specifications, business documents, procedures, and applicable regulations.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to identify discrepancies and assess project requirements.
• Planning, organization, and time-management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, HCSS Heavy Bid, AGTEK, Bluebeam, and Procore.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams, clients, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Strong work ethic, professional judgment, and commitment to quality, productivity, and workplace safety.
• Valid U.S.-issued driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to meet applicable pre-employment screening requirements, including drug screening and motor vehicle record review; a criminal background check will also be conducted.
• Verification of identity and employment eligibility upon hire.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with heavy civil, highway, paving, infrastructure, or site preparation projects.

Responsibilities

• Review project drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, addenda, and other bid documents to establish complete project scopes.
• Prepare detailed estimates, quantity takeoffs, bid qualifications, and pricing proposals.
• Develop self-perform estimates using crew production, labor, equipment, materials, indirect costs, staffing, and schedules.
• Evaluate project risks, competitive conditions, alternative construction methods, constructability, and value engineering opportunities.
• Review applicable DBE and SBE participation goals and incorporate requirements into bid preparation.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and project site visits to assess site conditions, scope requirements, and potential challenges.
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors to obtain competitive pricing and evaluate overall value.
• Negotiate supplier commitments and pursue favorable pricing to strengthen bid competitiveness.
• Communicate with clients, follow up on submitted proposals, and assist with bid negotiations.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure estimates are accurate, complete, and submitted in time for thorough review before bid deadlines.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of $80,000–$135,000.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Corporate profit-sharing program.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Full-time employment with a standard 40-hour workweek.
• Modern office environment and collaborative team culture.
• Opportunity to contribute to significant infrastructure projects and develop a long-term career with an established contractor.

What This Job Offers

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