Senior Wet Utility Estimator
Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to join their growing team in Sylmar, CA. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated construction professional with a strong background estimating and winning wet utility infrastructure projects throughout Southern California.
The ideal candidate will have a proven history of successfully bidding and securing projects involving storm drain, sewer, water, and large-diameter water pipeline construction. This position offers the opportunity to play a key role in the continued growth and success of a respected underground utility contractor.
Position Summary
The Senior Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates, performing quantity takeoffs, soliciting subcontractor and supplier pricing, identifying project risks, and developing winning bid strategies for public works and private-sector utility projects throughout Southern California.
Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed estimates for wet utility construction projects.
- Perform quantity takeoffs from plans and specifications.
- Analyze project documents, bid requirements, and contract specifications.
- Develop accurate labor, equipment, material, and subcontractor pricing.
- Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
- Identify project risks, opportunities, and value-engineering solutions.
- Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits as required.
- Coordinate with operations, project management, and executive leadership during the bidding process.
- Assist in preparing bid proposals and presentations.
- Track bid results and maintain estimating databases.
- Build and maintain relationships with municipalities, developers, engineers, utility agencies, subcontractors, and vendors.
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience successfully bidding and winning wet utility construction projects in Southern California.
- Demonstrated estimating experience involving:
- Storm drain systems
- Sewer mains and force mains
- Water distribution systems
- Large-diameter water transmission pipelines
- Strong knowledge of underground utility construction methods, sequencing, and production rates.
- Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents.
- Experience estimating public works, municipal, and utility infrastructure projects.
- Strong understanding of labor, equipment, materials, subcontractor pricing, and overall project costing.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and construction estimating software.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience estimating projects for cities, counties, water districts, and public agencies throughout Southern California.
- Knowledge of local utility standards and agency requirements.
- Experience with HCSS HeavyBid, Bid2Win, AGTEK, Bluebeam, or similar estimating software.
- Familiarity with prevailing wage and public works bidding requirements.
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field is preferred but not required.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Career growth opportunities
- Collaborative and team-oriented work environment
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.