Senior Estimator

Job DescriptionSenior Estimator (Heavy Civil Infrastructure)Location: Local to Missouri Preferred | Remote ConsideredA well-established heavy civil contractor is conducting a confidential search for a Senior Estimator with expertise in complex infrastructure projects, including Class I steel bridge construction/rehabilitation and USACE lock and dam facility rehabilitation.This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for driving the full estimating lifecycle-from opportunity evaluation through final proposal submission and post-award handoff. The position partners closely with executive leadership, operations, engineering, and procurement to develop competitive, executable pricing strategies aligned with company objectives.Senior Estimator OverviewThe Senior Estimator leads the preparation of accurate, innovative, and risk-conscious cost estimates for large-scale bridge and civil infrastructure projects. This individual will oversee quantity takeoffs, subcontractor/vendor solicitation, pricing analysis, proposal development, and preconstruction planning while ensuring compliance, quality, and on-time submissions.Senior Estimator Core ResponsibilitiesEstimating LeadershipLead all phases of the bid process from document review through submission.Develop detailed, competitive means and methods with innovative solutions.Conduct site visits to evaluate construction factors and risk elements.Prepare thorough, compliant, and timely estimates and proposals.Analyze direct and indirect construction costs with expert-level proficiency.Identify risk areas and develop alternative approaches to protect project viability.Continuously improve estimating tools, templates, and processes.Proposal & PreconstructionOversee qualification narratives and technical proposal components.Develop preliminary project schedules aligned with company resource capacity.Maintain historical project data for future proposal development.Post-Award EngagementSupport subcontractor and vendor selection utilizing prequalification standards.Assist with drafting initial subcontracts and major purchase orders.Lead the estimating-to-operations handoff process.Conduct quarterly cost and labor reviews to refine historical cost databases.Senior Estimator QualificationsEducationBachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field (experience may substitute).Experience5-7+ years of estimating and/or construction experience on large bridge and heavy civil infrastructure projects.Experience working with Class I Railroads and/or USACE projects strongly preferred.Technical StrengthsStrong understanding of steel bridge engineering and construction methodologies.Demonstrated ability to develop innovative engineered solutions.Advanced analytical, risk assessment, and problem-solving skills.High attention to detail and strong organizational capabilities.Leadership ProfileThe ideal Senior Estimator candidate demonstrates:Innovation in approach and solution developmentAccountability for resultsSound, confident decision-makingIntegrity-driven relationship buildingStrong cross-functional collaboration skills