Heavy Civil Chief Estimator- Missoula, MT
Heavy Civil Chief Estimator
Missoula, Montana
Salary: $120,000 - $180,000 Base Salary + Bonus + Profit Sharing
A well-established Heavy Civil General Contractor is seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead its estimating department in Missoula, Montana. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned estimating professional to play a key leadership role within a growing organization with a strong backlog of infrastructure work throughout Montana and the surrounding region.
The Chief Estimator will oversee all estimating activities, mentor junior estimators, develop competitive bid strategies, and work closely with executive leadership to secure and deliver profitable projects. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a proven track record estimating complex heavy civil construction projects.
Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all estimating operations for heavy civil construction projects
- Develop bid strategies and oversee proposal preparation from concept through submission
- Review plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents
- Prepare and review detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates
- Manage subcontractor and supplier solicitation processes
- Analyze project risks and opportunities during the preconstruction phase
- Present estimates and recommendations to executive leadership
- Collaborate with project management and operations teams during project handoff
- Mentor and develop Estimators and Junior Estimators
- Maintain relationships with owners, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers
- Track market conditions, labor trends, and material pricing
- Help identify and pursue strategic project opportunities
Experience Needed
- 8+ years of estimating experience within heavy civil construction
- 3+ years of leadership or management experience overseeing estimating teams
- Proven experience estimating projects ranging from $5M to $100M+
- Strong background in highways, roadways, bridges, earthwork, grading, excavation, utilities, site development, or transportation infrastructure
- Experience preparing competitive hard-bid and negotiated estimates
- Demonstrated success winning profitable heavy civil projects
- Knowledge of self-perform civil construction operations and production rates
- Experience reviewing contracts, risk assessments, and bid documents
Qualifications Required
- Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred
- Equivalent industry experience will also be considered
- Strong knowledge of heavy civil construction means and methods
- Proficiency with estimating software such as HCSS HeavyBid, Bid2Win, AGTEK, Bluebeam, or similar platforms
- Ability to interpret plans, specifications, and contract requirements
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and leadership abilities
- Ability to manage multiple pursuits and deadlines simultaneously
- Valid driver's license and ability to attend project and client meetings as needed
Benefits Included
- Base salary of $120,000 - $180,000
- Annual performance-based bonus opportunities
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Company vehicle or vehicle allowance
- Cell phone and technology allowance
- Generous paid time off and company holidays
- Relocation assistance available
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities
- Clear path toward executive-level leadership positions
- Strong project backlog and long-term job stability
- Family-oriented company culture
Why Join?
- Lead estimating efforts for some of the region's most impactful infrastructure projects
- Join a financially stable contractor with an outstanding reputation throughout the Mountain West
- Work directly with executive leadership on strategic growth initiatives
- Enjoy the lifestyle benefits of living in Missoula, including world-class outdoor recreation, hunting, fishing, skiing, and hiking
- Advance your career with a company that values leadership, innovation, and long-term employee success
Apply today to learn more about this confidential Chief Estimator opportunity with a leading Heavy Civil General Contractor in Missoula, Montana.
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