Senior Estimator – Wet Utilities

Location: Greater Los Angeles, Orange County, Inland Empire
Salary: Commensurate with Experience
Employment Type: Full-Time

General Summary

The Senior Estimator is responsible for managing the full estimating process for underground wet utility projects — from conceptual estimates to final bid submission and project handoff. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in water, sewer, and storm drain systems, as well as pump stations and treatment facilities. This role requires extensive experience with self-performing heavy civil contractors operating in urban street environments.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare detailed estimates for wet utility projects including water, sewer, and storm drain systems.

Develop cost estimates from concept through completion, including transitioning winning bids to operations.

Analyze project plans, specifications, and requirements to determine scope and cost.

Evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

Incorporate field input and historical data to refine estimates and construction methodologies.

Support operations with change order pricing, value engineering, and alternative method analysis.

Maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and project partners.

Ensure all estimates are compliant with company standards and reflect realistic project execution strategies.

Requirements

Minimum 5 years of experience estimating wet utility projects (water, sewer, storm drain).

Strong knowledge of underground utility construction, paving, and concrete work as related to utility installations.

Must have worked for a self-performing general engineering contractor performing at-risk work (not CM or government-only estimating).

Experience working on urban street projects with existing utilities and traffic conditions.

Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with operations teams.

Software Knowledge

Required: Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).

Preferred Experience In:

Hard Dollar or HeavyBid or HCSS estimating software

Bluebeam (PDF markup & takeoff)

Primavera P6 or other scheduling software

AutoCAD or similar design review tools

Industry Specialties

Underground Construction • Wet Utilities • General Engineering • Structure Construction • Water & Sewer Pipeline • Oil & Gas Pipeline • Power & Communication Line

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive Salary: Based on experience

Comprehensive Benefits:

100% employer-paid Health, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance for employee

Health insurance coverage for employee and family

Company vehicle and gas card provided

401(k) Retirement Plan

Profit-sharing plan