Estimator - Underground Utilities

J&L Construction, LLC is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Underground Utilities Estimator to join our growing team. The Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for underground utility projects including water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, drainage, and associated concrete work. This position plays a critical role in securing new projects by analyzing plans, specifications, and project requirements while working closely with management, project managers, subcontractors, and suppliers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Review project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for underground utility projects including:
• Water lines
• Sanitary sewer
• Storm sewer
• Drainage structures
• Fire lines
• Concrete paving and flatwork
• Excavation and earthwork
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Prepare complete cost estimates including labor, equipment, materials, trucking, subcontractors, overhead, and profit.
• Develop competitive bid proposals and submit bids within required deadlines.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project walkthroughs as needed.
• Identify project risks and develop value engineering opportunities.
• Coordinate with Project Managers and Operations to ensure smooth project handoff after award.
• Maintain current pricing databases for labor, equipment, and materials.
• Research market pricing trends and vendor relationships.
• Review bid results and perform post-bid analysis.
• Assist with change order pricing when requested.
• Maintain organized estimating files and documentation.
• Work closely with company leadership to identify future bidding opportunities.
• Ensure estimates comply with company standards and client requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of estimating experience in underground utility construction.
• Strong knowledge of:
• Water distribution systems
• Sanitary sewer systems
• Storm drainage systems
• Earthwork
• Concrete construction
• Ability to read and interpret civil engineering plans and specifications.
• Experience preparing detailed quantity takeoffs.
• Excellent mathematical and analytical skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience estimating municipal and private underground utility projects.
• Knowledge of Texas DOT (TxDOT), municipalities, and local utility district specifications.
• Experience with unit price and lump sum bidding.
• Familiarity with public bid procurement processes.
• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Civil Engineering, or related field (required).

Software Experience

Preferred experience with one or more of the following:

• HCSS HeavyBid
• Agtek
• Bluebeam Revu
• AutoCAD Civil 3D (basic understanding)
• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Outlook
• Adobe Acrobat

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to interpret construction drawings and specifications
• Strong negotiation skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to collaborate effectively with field personnel and management
• Strong decision-making abilities
• Professional communication with owners, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while preparing estimates.
• Ability to visit construction sites and navigate uneven terrain.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to travel to project sites and pre-bid meetings as required.

Work Environment

• Office environment with occasional field visits.
• Fast-paced environment with multiple project deadlines.
• Occasional overtime may be required during peak bidding periods.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) 4% Match
• 401(k) matching
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance