Overview:
The Estimator is responsible for developing accurate and detailed cost estimates for complex heavy civil projects by interpreting drawings, performing precise quantity take-offs, and preparing organized subcontractor and vendor work scopes. The role analyzes and compares quotes, researches construction methods and costs, and uses tools such as HCSS, AutoCAD, and takeoff software to support high-quality estimates. It coordinates bid activities, participates in site visits and pre-bid meetings, and collaborates with pursuit teams, operations, safety, and quality to refine project approaches. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, the ability to read technical specifications, and effective communication are essential. Success in this role requires technical estimating expertise, strong time management, teamwork, and the ability to meet critical deadlines.
Responsibilities:
Estimator
Skanska USA Civil
Reports to: Lead Estimator, Senior Estimator
Department: Preconstruction & Estimating
Location: Where position will be posted
FLSA Classification: Exempt
Employment Status: Full time
Job Summary:
The Estimator along with the Senior Estimator, Lead Estimator and/or Estimating Manager, develops accurate, timely and detailed cost estimates on large, complex heavy civil projects for bid-build, design build, CM/GC, PPP and Engineer, Procure and Construct (EPC) projects. The Estimator supports delivery of properly organized estimates, budgets and schedules, including managing Skanska's risk. The Estimator will be responsible for accurate quantity surveys, preparation of subcontractor and vendor work scopes, quote analysis, and estimating the cost of self-perform work. The Estimator will be a self-starter and work efficiently. The Estimator must be able to meet critical deadlines and have the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Duties and Responsibilities:
* Demonstrate commitment to an Injury-Free Environment and Skanska Safety and Health Management Program, including the ability to independently stop work for a safety violation or suspected safely violation
* Aid in developing full-scope cost estimates based on proposal documentation on a variety of bid build, design build and EPC projects for various public and private clients
* Interpret and analyze project drawings and technical specifications, proposals and other documentation
* As a team member, develop the initial project plan and project execution schedule
* Responsible for the preparation and documentation of project estimate using HCSS estimating software, following estimating policy and procedures
* Prepare detailed, comprehensive subcontractor and vendor work scopes
* Solicit subcontractor and vendor quotations
* Independently analyze and compare subcontractor and vendor quotations
* Liaise with subcontractors and vendors for clarification of issues and scope
* Estimate cost for discrete portions of work under the supervision of the Lead or Senior Estimator
* Present and promote work product and findings to senior and executive management
* Perform research for means and methods, materials, costs and construction techniques and services
* Perform site visits on pursuits and ongoing projects, attend industry trade and outreach events
* Perform accurate quantity take-offs
* Produce an accurate estimate of labor, material, equipment, subcontractors and general conditions
* Discuss project approach with pursuit team, operations, safety and quality to better estimate each project
* Distribute bid requirements to Estimating Administrator if coordinating a project
* Submit bid bond request forms if coordinating a project o Request labor rates from finance if coordinating a project
* Distribute bid documents including addenda and clarifications if coordinating a project
* Review all bid documents including contract terms and conditions to create clarification letter
* Attend pre-bid meeting/walk-thru
* Consolidate and ask questions/ RFI's during bid stage
* Consolidate all estimates into complete estimate summary for review o Participate in bid review meeting
* Coordinate effort to complete all bid forms and assembling of proposal if coordinating a project
* Provide Estimating Administrator a list of vendors and subcontractors to solicit quotes from
* Follow-up with vendors and subcontractors to make sure there is adequate coverage of bid items
* Determine proper production rates to apply for labor calculations
* Be thoroughly familiar with technical specifications of the portion of work assigned
* Coordinate closely with the Lead or Senior Estimator
* Coordinate with and train and mentor Estimating Engineers in their developing of quantity take-offs
* Manage projects that are not turned over to controls
* The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Duties and responsibilities may be added or changed as deemed appropriate by management at any time.
Education and Experience:
Required Qualifications:
* Bachelor's Degree - Engineering, Construction Management or similar technical training/experience.
* 3 years prior relevant experience.
* Practical knowledge of job area typically obtained through advanced education combined with experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
* Proficiency with MS Office products: Word, Excel, PowerPoint
* Working knowledge of Estimating/Engineering software: HCSS Heavy Bid, AutoCAD, OnScreenTakeoff or similar
* Ability to read and understand drawings and technical specifications
* Ability to define problems, establish facts, draw valid conclusions and present solutions
* Effective written and verbal communication skills
* Good attention to detail and the ability to recognize discrepancies
* Strong math and problem solving skills
* Ability to meet critical deadlines
* Good time management skills and organizational skills
* Ability and willingness to abide by Skanska's Code of Conduct
* Functions effectively as part of a team
* Understand, comply with and support Skanska's safety initiatives
* Understand, comply with and support Skanska's M/W/DBE initiatives
* Ability to maintain discretion and confidentiality at all times
* Ability to understand and follow directions; dependability
* Desire to learn and grow; self-motivated for success
Competencies / Skills:
Has demonstrated proficiency in:
* Contract Awareness : Reviews the client's prime contract as well as subcontracts and vendor agreements to ensure contract requirements are satisfied.
* Plans and Specifications - Estimating: Reads and interprets construction plans and the technical specifications that enable the ability to perform estimating duties.
* Quantification - Estimating: Identifies and quantifies construction elements, materials, and temporary works for elements of a project using design documents. Organizes quantity takeoffs for ease of review and pricing.
* Subcontractor Outreach / Networking: Builds, maintains, and tracks relationships with subcontractors and vendors. Identifies appropriate subcontractors for specific projects, with a consideration of the project type, sector and size, as well as the subcontractor strengths and capabilities. Collaborates with regional diversity leadership to develop and implement strategies to maximize diverse and minority owned business participation.
* Subcontractor / Supplier Selection Process: Prepares scopes of work for subcontractor/supplier, develops bid packages, conducts analysis interviews and comparisons, selects and negotiates with subcontractor/supplier and prepares contract. Partners with operations to implement project procurement plans.
* Tools and Technology - Preconstruction Civil: Identifies and uses the appropriate preconstruction and visualization technology, equipment and tools for planning
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