Utility Construction Estimator

Irvine, CA - USA

Monthly Salary: Not Disclosed

Posted on: 3 hours ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Role: Estimator Underground Utilities

Location: Irvine California
Job Type: Full-Time Direct Hire

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Estimator Underground Utilities to support preconstruction efforts for complex public works and private infrastructure projects throughout Southern California.

This role is critical to the companys success serving as the financial and technical backbone of competitive bidding for water sewer and storm drain pipeline construction projects.

The ideal candidate understands the full lifecycle of underground wet utility construction - from interpreting civil drawings and specifications to developing accurate risk-adjusted cost models that drive profitable project execution. This position works closely with executive leadership project management subcontractors and public agencies to ensure bids are precise competitive and strategically positioned.

This is a high-impact role within a growing heavy civil contractor known for delivering technically demanding infrastructure projects.

Key Responsibilities

Analyze civil plans profiles specifications and geotechnical reports to prepare comprehensive cost estimates for underground pipeline projects (water sewer storm drain).
Develop detailed quantity takeoffs for excavation trenching shoring backfill pipe installation restoration and related civil components.
Prepare competitive bids for public works and private infrastructure projects ensuring compliance with municipal and agency requirements.
Conduct site visits and pre-bid meetings to evaluate project conditions access utilities soil conditions and logistical constraints.
Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotes; level proposals and incorporate into final estimates.
Identify project risks constructability challenges and cost exposures within bid documents.
Maintain organized bid files and documentation to support post-award transition to operations.
Collaborate with project managers and field leadership to ensure alignment between estimated and executed scopes.
Support value engineering efforts and alternate bid scenarios when applicable.

Key Qualifications

Minimum 3 years of estimating or preconstruction experience in heavy civil construction with direct exposure to underground utilities.
Demonstrated experience estimating water sewer and storm drain pipeline projects.
Strong understanding of public works bidding processes including familiarity with municipal and agency contract requirements.
Proficiency in:
- Microsoft Excel (advanced level)
- Bluebeam
- PlanetBids or similar public bid platforms
Ability to read and interpret civil drawings utility profiles and technical specifications with accuracy.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify cost drivers production rates and potential risk factors.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Highly organized detail-oriented and capable of managing multiple bid deadlines simultaneously.
Field exposure or operations experience in pipeline construction is strongly preferred.

Compensation

Competitive base salary commensurate with experience (targeting up to $150000) along with a comprehensive benefits package and long-term growth opportunities.

What We Are Truly Looking For (Recruiter Insight)

This is not a general commercial building estimator role.

The right candidate must:

Understand trenching shoring systems dewatering traffic control and restoration.
Be comfortable working with public agencies and strict compliance requirements.
Think beyond numbers - anticipate site challenges and operational execution realities.
Have Southern California heavy civil market exposure (highly preferred).

This role directly impacts backlog growth and profitability. Accuracy accountability and pipeline-specific technical knowledge are essential.

Role: Estimator Underground Utilities Location: Irvine California Job Type: Full-Time Direct Hire About the Role We are seeking an experienced Estimator Underground Utilities to support preconstruction efforts for complex public works and private infrastructure projects throughout Southern ...