Mission, TX
Job Title: Lead Estimator
Reports To: Regional Director / Director of Estimating & Pre-Construction
Location: Mission, TX
Position Summary
The Lead Estimator is responsible for managing and coordinating comprehensive estimating services for large and complex heavy civil construction projects across Texas. This role leads the entire bid and proposal process, working closely with estimating staff, administrative support, and management to deliver competitive, accurate, and strategic bids.
The Lead Estimator will oversee approximately 25–50 estimates annually, with individual project values ranging from $5 million to $100 million. The position requires a high level of technical expertise, leadership, and collaboration with clients, construction managers, and internal teams throughout the proposal, value engineering, and negotiation phases.
Key Responsibilities
Estimating & Bidding
Lead and coordinate all aspects of bid preparation, including bid item setup, pricing, closeout, and scheduling.
Review and analyze historical productivity data, manpower requirements, equipment costs, and vendor/subcontractor quotes to develop complete and accurate estimates.
Prepare conceptual budgets and detailed final estimates for all assigned projects.
Provide technical guidance to estimators during quantity take-offs and cost development.
Review project specifications, drawings, and attend pre-bid meetings to fully define scope and estimate requirements.
Develop and present value engineering proposals and Critical Path Method (CPM) schedules to clients and construction managers.
Lead formal client presentations and participate in final negotiations to secure project awards.
Maintain and update HCSS HeavyBid databases, including labor, crew, activity, and bid master codebooks.
Manage bid-to-project data transfer for awarded contracts, ensuring phase codes and cost budgets are accurately established.
Ensure all supporting documentation and data are maintained to substantiate estimate figures.
Post-Award & Project Support
Prepare award-related submittals and follow-up documentation for clients and construction managers.
Track awarded projects and assist with estimating and pricing extra work, change orders, and credit adjustments as needed.
Support the contracting team in evaluating bids and inquiries during the procurement process.
Coordinate closely with Business Development to align estimating efforts with strategic growth objectives.
Leadership & Mentorship
Lead, train, and mentor Junior and Intermediate Estimators, fostering professional growth and technical proficiency within the estimating department.
Promote best practices and continuous improvement in estimating methodologies and cost control processes.
Collaborate with the Director of Estimating to ensure department goals align with company objectives.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical field, or equivalent combination of training and experience.
Minimum 10+ years of experience in construction estimating, cost control, or engineering, including 3+ years in a Senior or Lead Estimator capacity.
Proven ability to manage complex bids and proposals, with full understanding of profit/loss implications.
Experience in Design-Build and Best Value contract delivery methods preferred.
Strong background in heavy civil, foundations, demolition, excavation, support of excavation, drilling, concrete, and site utilities, as well as TXDOT or municipal infrastructure projects.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent bids.
Software & Technical Skills
Required: Microsoft Office Suite, HCSS (HeavyBid/HeavyJob), Viewpoint (PM, SL, and PO modules)
Preferred: Primavera P6, MS Project, Salesforce
Strong technical and proposal writing abilities.
Proficient with digital tools and project management systems.
OSHA Safety Training certification preferred.