Estimator (Heavy Civil / Construction)

The Estimator is responsible for client engagement, reviewing bid documents, detailed and comprehensive quantity take-off, securing subcontractor and vendor pricing, preparing accurate cost estimates and bid documents for new and existing heavy civil construction and underground utility projects.

Company Overview

Birmingham Excavating Co. was founded by Sam Saiia in 1946 and has since grown into Saiia Construction, a leading industrial heavy civil contractor serving the power generation, mineral and aggregate mining, and pulp and paper markets.

With over 630 pieces of construction machinery in our fleet, more than 500 employees, and experience working in 11 states, we have the resources and expertise to complete projects of any scale.

Responsibilities:

• Review bid requirements to ensure all aspects of the project are documented and accounted for.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site tours, and bid review meetings.
• Coordinate takeoff drawings and secure subcontractor and vendor pricing.
• Manage relationships with subcontractors and vendors to ensure bids are completed accurately and timely.
• Review drawings and highlight areas of concern.
• Report risks and special considerations to the lead estimator for profit evaluation.
• Assist in developing project schedules and work plans.
• Review successful estimates with project developers and area managers before job commencement.
• Prepare or assist in creating project budgets.
• Help Project Managers prepare project change estimates as needed.
• Seek cost-effective methods for inclusion in estimating projects.
• Assist in preparing bid packages for subcontractor quotations.

Qualifications:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Experience with InEight, Hard Dollar, Bid Build, HeavyBid, or similar construction estimating software.
• Familiarity with MS Project, Primavera, or similar construction scheduling software.
• Understanding of civil engineering design and construction methods and industry standards.
• Knowledge of mass grading and earthwork, stream restoration, stormwater management, erosion control, and utility infrastructure requirements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Able to pay attention to detail and approach problems strategically.
• Experience with job costing, scheduling, and estimating contract changes.
• Able to break down construction operations into logical sequences of activities.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 3-5 years of project engineering/estimating experience on heavy civil construction projects, including excavation and underground utilities.