Estimator

Job Description Job Description Job Title: Estimator Department: Design-Build Construction Reports To: Director of Design-Build Classification: Exempt Normal Business Hours: Approx. 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday Location: Fountain Valley Office Travel: Occasional travel to project sites or partner offices as required Job Objective The Estimator plays a key role in the successful delivery of water and wastewater infrastructure projects by preparing accurate, detailed, and competitive cost estimates for design-build projects. Reporting directly to the Director of Design-Build, this position requires a strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and processes in the water/wastewater industry, as well as the ability to collaborate with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure estimates align with project scope, budget, and schedule requirements. Principal Duties and Responsibilities Prepare detailed cost estimates for water and wastewater treatment plant projects, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor services. Prepare detailed scope and bid breakdown packages for trade partners. Analyze project plans, specifications, and related documents to identify cost drivers, risks, and opportunities for value engineering. Work closely with engineers, project managers, and design staff to ensure estimates reflect current design intent and construction feasibility. Solicit, review, and negotiate subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure competitive pricing and scope coverage. Develop and maintain historical cost data for use in future estimating activities. Participate in bid reviews, proposal preparation, and project presentations to clients. Assist in project budgeting and forecasting during pre-construction and early project stages. Collaborate with the scheduling team to ensure cost estimates align with proposed timelines. Track market trends in materials, equipment, and labor to maintain competitive and accurate estimates. Support project teams during the transition from estimating to construction, ensuring proper handoff of estimate details. Maintain compliance with corporate safety and quality standards in all estimating activities. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required Strong understanding of water and wastewater treatment plant construction methods, including heavy mechanical, piping, and concrete work. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Project, and Outlook; ability to learn and utilize estimating software and project management tools such as Procore. Excellent written and verbal communication skills to collaborate effectively with clients, team members, and subcontractors. Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy in cost development. Ability to work under tight deadlines while managing multiple estimates simultaneously. Knowledge of industry-standard estimating practices and familiarity with CSI divisions related to water/wastewater infrastructure. Ability to oversee multiple hard bids, CMAR and Design-Build bids simultaneously. Provide mentoring, coaching and training to stakeholders. Education, Credentials, and Experience Required Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred; equivalent work experience considered. Minimum 5 years of estimating experience in water/wastewater or heavy civil construction. Valid state-issued driver’s license. Experience with design-build delivery methods preferred. Work Conditions Primarily office-based, with occasional travel to project sites, subcontractor facilities, and client offices. Site visits may require exposure to active construction areas, including both indoor and outdoor environments

Location: Fountain Valley, California, US

Posted Date: 8/17/2025