Telecommunications Construction Estimator

IQ Fiber•Jacksonville, FL

28d•Hybrid

About The Position

IQ Fiber is seeking a Telecommunications Construction Estimator responsible for preparing accurate, competitive cost estimates and bids for telecommunications infrastructure projects, including fiber optic, aerial, and underground construction. This role works closely with sales, project managers, construction coordinators, and field crews to ensure estimates reflect realistic labor, material, and equipment costs while supporting the company's profitability and growth goals. This is primarily an office-based role with occasional travel to job sites for scope verification, and may require occasional evening or weekend work to meet bid deadlines.

Requirements

3+ years of experience in construction estimating, preferably within telecommunications, utility, or underground/aerial construction; 5+ years preferred.
Experience working with telecom carriers, MSOs, FTTH companies, or utility companies preferred.
Strong understanding of fiber optics or coax telecommunications construction methods and materials.
Prior field construction or project management experience preferred.
Proficiency in reading and interpreting construction drawings, design software, and engineering plans.
Familiarity with GIS mapping software and fiber network design tools, including KMZ and Vetro Software preferred.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Smartsheet.
Solid understanding of labor productivity rates, equipment costs, and material pricing.
Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously across multiple markets under tight deadlines with strong analytical, organizational, and time management skills.
Ability to communicate clearly in written and verbal formats with strong attention to detail.
Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer; ability to perform occasional site visits requiring walking on uneven terrain, climbing, or working near active construction in outdoor environments.

Nice To Haves

5+ years of experience in construction estimating, preferably within telecommunications, utility, or underground/aerial construction.
Experience working with telecom carriers, MSOs, FTTH companies, or utility companies.
Prior field construction or project management experience.
Familiarity with GIS mapping software and fiber network design tools, including KMZ and Vetro Software.

Responsibilities

Review network design and site survey data to develop detailed cost estimates for telecommunications construction projects, including aerial and underground designs.
Review final designs and create Bills of Materials (BOMs) for materials, labor, and equipment based on engineering drawings and scopes of work.
Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor quotes to incorporate into bid packages; analyze RFPs/RFQs and prepare complete, compliant, and competitive bid proposals within deadlines.
Conduct site visits as needed to verify scope, access conditions, and constructability; identify project risks, cost drivers, and value engineering opportunities during the estimating process.
Maintain and update unit cost databases, historical pricing data, and productivity rates.
Collaborate with project managers and operations teams to ensure a smooth transition from estimate to project execution.
Prepare change order estimates for scope adjustments during construction; track project costs to ensure they fall within the approved budget.
Utilize KMZ, Vetro Software, and GIS/mapping tools to support takeoffs and pricing accuracy.
Ensure compliance with local, state, and utility/telecom company standards and permitting requirements.