# Senior Estimator - Heavy Civil (Public Infrastructure & Utilities)

> AlphaHire · Los Angeles, United States · Full-time · Posted 2026-05-05

**Salary:** USD 209,000–229,000

**Workplace:** on_site

## Description

We are seeking a Senior Estimator / Chief Estimator to lead public works estimating for a heavy civil contractor specializing in underground utilities and municipal infrastructure.

This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for owning the full bid lifecycle—from strategy through submission—within a self-perform general engineering contractor environment. You will play a critical role in driving backlog, revenue, and project success through accurate, competitive estimating.

**Responsibilities**

-   Lead full-cycle estimating for public works heavy civil projects (utilities, infrastructure, municipal)
-   Develop detailed cost estimates (labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, production rates)
-   Review plans, specs, and civil drawings to define scope and identify risks
-   Manage bid schedules, deadlines, and compliance requirements
-   Solicit, evaluate, and finalize subcontractor/vendor pricing
-   Partner with field teams to validate means, methods, and production assumptions
-   Analyze historical data and market trends to improve estimate accuracy
-   Drive value engineering and cost optimization strategies
-   Present final bid packages, including margin strategy and risk analysis
-   Mentor junior estimators and establish best practices/processes

## Requirements

-   10+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil construction
-   Strong background in underground utilities and public works projects
-   Proven success leading and winning municipal/DOT/government bids
-   Experience in a self-perform contractor environment (required)
-   Full ownership of estimates (not just takeoffs/support)
-   Ability to read and interpret civil plans, specs, and bid documents
-   Experience with HCSS HeavyBid, Bluebeam, or similar tools
-   Experience estimating projects in California public works market
-   Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related (preferred)

## Benefits

-   Competitive base salary + strong project pipeline
-   High-impact leadership role with direct influence on bid strategy
-   Established, financially stable contractor with long-term clients
-   Collaborative, fast-paced environment with decision-making autonomy

## Apply

[Apply at AlphaHire](https://apply.workable.com/alphax/j/E197A96F95/apply)

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