Chief Estimator – Confidential Search

DMV Region (DC / Maryland / Virginia)
Full-Time Executive Leadership

A growing underground utility contractor in the DMV region is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead and scale its estimating operations. This organization has a strong presence across the Mid-Atlantic and continues to expand its footprint in complex infrastructure and utility projects.

This is a strategic leadership role offering the opportunity to influence company growth drive estimating excellence and partner closely with executive leadership.

The Chief Estimator is responsible for overseeing all estimating functions ensuring the development of accurate competitive and strategic bids. This individual will lead the estimating team guide bid strategy and align preconstruction efforts with company goals risk tolerance and profitability targets.

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead mentor and develop a team of estimators and support staff
• Establish departmental goals performance metrics and accountability standards
• Oversee staffing workload distribution and team development
• Foster a collaborative high-performance estimating culture

Strategic Estimating & Bid Oversight

• Direct and review all major estimates and bid submissions
• Develop bid strategies that balance competitiveness with profitability
• Provide final approval on complex and high-value bids
• Partner with leadership on go/no-go decisions

Preconstruction & Risk Management

• Evaluate project risks contracts and market conditions
• Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies within estimates
• Lead contract reviews and advise on commercial terms

Cost Management & Data Analytics

• Oversee cost databases historical data and estimating standards
• Ensure consistency in pricing production rates and labor assumptions
• Analyze bid performance and market trends to improve accuracy

Subcontractor & Vendor Strategy

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key subcontractors and suppliers
• Oversee prequalification and selection processes
• Support negotiation strategies for major scopes and agreements

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with operations project management and engineering teams
• Ensure seamless handoff from estimating to project execution
• Collaborate with business development on pursuit strategies and client engagement

Process Improvement & Technology

• Drive continuous improvement in estimating systems and workflows
• Evaluate and implement new tools and technologies
• Standardize estimating processes across the organization

• 10 years of experience in underground utility or heavy civil estimating
• 5 years in a leadership role managing estimating teams
• Proven track record managing large complex infrastructure bids
• Strong understanding of underground utilities civil construction methods and market dynamics

• Bachelors degree in Civil Engineering Construction Management or related field
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification
• Valid drivers license

• Advanced proficiency with estimating software (e.g. HCSS HeavyBid Bluebeam)
• Strong leadership and team-building capabilities
• Exceptional analytical and financial acumen
• Deep knowledge of construction methods contracts and risk management
• High-level communication and executive presentation skills
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment

• Primarily office-based with periodic site visits
• Exposure to active construction environments as needed
• Fast-paced deadline-driven environment with high visibility
• MondayFriday schedule with additional hours required for bid deadlines
• Occasional travel within the DMV region

• Executive-level opportunity with direct impact on company growth and strategy
• Lead and shape a high-performing estimating team
• Strong project pipeline across infrastructure and utility markets
• Opportunity to influence processes technology and long-term direction

This organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants without regard to race color religion sex national origin age disability or any other protected status.