Project Manager/Estimator

About Merritt Contracting At Merritt Contracting, we build more than just projects — we build careers. Since 1995, we’ve grown into a local leader in civil, utilities, earthwork, and concrete construction across Indiana. The Merritt Way means doing projects safely, delivering high-quality workmanship, and moving efficiently — always with the goal that everyone goes home the way they arrived. We’re proudly employee-owned (ESOP) and focused on long-term growth through quality people and performance. Position Summary We are seeking a Project Manager – Civil to lead complex civil and utility projects from bid through closeout. This role is a blend of project leadership, technical oversight, budgeting, scheduling, and client communication. The ideal candidate must be strong in both field execution understanding and office planning/coordination, with experience delivering projects on time, within budget, and to Merritt standards of safety, quality, and efficiency. If all you’ve done is show up and “manage orders,” this isn’t the role for you — we want someone who owns the job from start to finish and drives proactive execution. What You’ll Be Doing Project Planning & Execution Collaborate/Lead planning and execution of civil projects, including utilities, site work, earthwork, pipe installation, grading, and related scopes. Collaborate and manage project schedules, budgets, resources, manpower, materials, and equipment. Follow client look-ahead schedules tied to critical path and deliverables. Coordinate with estimating and pre-construction teams to finalize pricing assumptions, risks, and constructability. Technical Understanding & Field Coordination Translate contract documents, drawings, and specifications into clear field execution plans. Coordinate with superintendents and foremen on sequence of operations, utilities interaction, conflicts, and logistics. Monitor productivity rates, manpower distribution, production rates, and direct adjustments as needed. (really important) Client & Stakeholder Management Serve as main point of contact for owners, engineers, subcontractors, and inspectors. Set clear expectations, communicate progress transparently, and resolve issues before they become problems. Attend project meetings, produce meeting minutes, and keep all parties aligned. Financial & Contract Administration Track project costs, change orders, billings, pay applications, and subcontractor invoicing (really important) Own financial performance — keep profit and schedule on track. Maintain accurate project documentation, RFIs, submittals, cost reports, and correspondence. (really important) Closeout & Quality Assurance Facilitate project closeout, punch lists, warranties, and final documentation. Ensure all work meets internal quality standards and industry tolerances — including earthwork, utility alignment, compaction, paving transitions, and concrete interfaces. Culture & Process Improvement Champion safety, quality, and efficiency — identical to The Merritt Way. Contribute to process improvements and lessons learned across divisions. Coach and mentor emerging field and office talent toward higher performance. Who We’re Looking For Must-Have Experience (2-4 years of experience) Proven project management experience in civil/heavy civil construction (utilities, earthwork, site infrastructure). Experience with commercial & industrial clients, engineers, and owners. Strong understanding of construction sequencing, field logistics, and production planning. Track record delivering projects on time and on budget. Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and civil details. Comfortable working with scheduling tools, project financials, submittals/RFIs, and document control. Practical field understanding — you should know how the job is built and how to communicate those needs. Professional Skills Confident communicator with clients, field crews, and leadership. Strong organization, planning, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Ability to lead multiple priorities simultaneously without losing focus on quality or schedule. Proficiency with construction project tools — experience with Procore, Trimble business center and blue beam or similar platforms a plus. Other Valid driver’s license. Positive and professional leadership presence — people want to work with you and learn from you. Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Why Work With Us Benefits include but are not limited to: ESOP participation Medical, Dental, Vision insurance + wellness benefits Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Employer-paid Life Insurance PTO accrual + Holiday pay 401(k) with company match Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: Merritt Contracting is an equal opportunity employer and follows all state and federal laws regarding EEO and anti-discrimination. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. If you need accommodation during the application process, please contact our Human Resources department. Your application will be handled confidentially and in compliance with the law.