Job Description
Senior Estimator - Underground Utilities DMV Region (DC / Maryland / Virginia)
Full-Time
About the Opportunity A growing and reputable underground utility contractor in the DMV region is seeking an experienced
Senior Estimator to join their team. This is a key leadership role within the preconstruction group, responsible for driving accurate cost estimates and competitive bids across a diverse portfolio of utility projects.
This organization is known for its strong project pipeline, collaborative culture, and continued growth across the Mid-Atlantic market.
Position Overview The Senior Estimator will play a critical role in the bid and preconstruction process, working closely with operations, project management, and external partners to deliver accurate and strategic project pricing.
Key Responsibilities Estimating & Bidding - Prepare detailed and competitive cost estimates for underground utility projects (water, sewer, storm drain, etc.)
- Develop comprehensive bid proposals aligned with company profitability goals
- Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing
Project Analysis & Risk Assessment - Review plans, specifications, and project documentation to define scope
- Identify project risks and opportunities, and develop mitigation strategies
Vendor & Relationship Management - Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and clients
- Source and onboard new vendors to strengthen bidding competitiveness
- Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions
Collaboration & Communication - Partner with project managers, engineers, and leadership to align estimates with execution strategy
- Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and client presentations as needed
Reporting & Documentation - Maintain detailed estimate records, assumptions, and cost breakdowns
- Support estimating handoff to operations with clear documentation and budget forecasts
Process Improvement - Stay current on industry trends, pricing, and technologies
- Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating tools and processes
Qualifications - 5+ years of experience in underground utility estimating , including senior-level responsibilities
- Strong understanding of utility construction (water, sewer, storm systems)
- Ability to interpret construction drawings, specs, and contracts
- Experience working across multiple jurisdictions and specifications
- Proven ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously
Preferred Background - Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field
- Experience with estimating software such as HCSS HeavyBid and Bluebeam
- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification (preferred)
- Valid driver's license for site visits
Key Skills - Strong analytical and mathematical capabilities
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Work Environment & Schedule - Primarily office-based with occasional field/site visits
- Exposure to active construction environments during site walkthroughs
- Standard Monday-Friday schedule with additional hours during bid cycles
- Local travel within the DMV region as needed
Why This Role? - Join a growing contractor with a strong backlog of work
- High-impact role with visibility across operations and leadership
- Opportunity to shape estimating strategy and processes
- Stable pipeline driven by increasing demand for infrastructure and utility work
Equal Opportunity Employer This organization is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees.
Job Tags
Full time, For contractors, For subcontractor, Work at office, Local area, Monday to Friday