Senior Estimator-Heavy Civil/Highway

Kimmel & Associates • Newark, NJ

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Estimator will lead estimating efforts for heavy civil and highway projects throughout New Jersey. Based in South Plainfield, the role prepares competitive, comprehensive bids for projects involving site preparation, underground utilities, highways, roadways, bridges, and asphalt paving. Working from a modern office with a collaborative team, the Senior Estimator develops detailed cost estimates, evaluates project risks, coordinates with vendors and suppliers, and helps position the company for successful project awards. The role calls for extensive heavy civil estimating experience, strong technical capabilities, and the ability to produce accurate bids within demanding deadlines.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of experience as a field engineer, project engineer, construction estimator, or in a related construction role.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, preferably Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Engineering Technology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated understanding of heavy civil, highway, paving, utility, or site preparation construction.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, business documents, technical specifications, procedures, and applicable regulations.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify discrepancies, evaluate risks, and develop accurate cost estimates.
• Organizational and planning skills, including the ability to prioritize competing deadlines and deliver complete bids on schedule.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, HCSS Heavy Bid, Agtek, Bluebeam, and Procore.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including effective communication in English.
• Effective leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, with a strong work ethic and commitment to team success.
• Commitment to workplace safety, quality standards, ethical conduct, company policies, and the employee handbook.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and submit competitive bids for heavy civil and highway construction projects throughout New Jersey.
• Review drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, addenda, and other bid documents to establish project scope and identify discrepancies.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop cost estimates covering self-perform labor and crew costs, equipment, materials, indirect costs, staffing, and schedules.
• Evaluate project risks, competitive conditions, constructability, alternative construction methods, and value engineering opportunities.
• Review applicable Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Small Business Enterprise (SBE) participation requirements and goals.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and jobsite visits to assess conditions, clarify scope, and identify challenges.
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers to secure competitive pricing and favorable commitments.
• Evaluate supplier and subcontractor proposals to determine the best overall value.
• Communicate with clients, follow up on submitted bids, and assist with bid negotiations and scope clarification.
• Coordinate with internal teams to validate estimates, review pricing strategies, and ensure proposals are complete and submitted in time for review.
• Maintain accurate estimating documentation and support consistent bidding practices aligned with company standards and project objectives.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Company profit-sharing program.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Modern office environment and opportunity to work with an experienced, collaborative estimating team.
• Opportunity to contribute to significant heavy civil and infrastructure projects across New Jersey.

What This Job Offers

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