Estimator

*This position is located in Romeoville*

Position Summary:
Develop and submit quotes for projects put out to bid by state and local agencies, working closely with contractors for consideration. Cultivate strong customer relationships through a mix of sales strategies and project management. Negotiate post-bid awards and build long-term positive relationships with contractors, agencies, and clients.

Essential Functions:

• Collaborate with Branch Management and Market Manager to shift focus from price-driven proposals to value-driven proposals where appropriate.
• Build customer relationships through proactive engagement, including in-person meetings, not solely by providing price quotes.
• Act as both a part-time estimator and predominantly in a sales role, effectively managing both responsibilities.
• Review project schedules and provide feedback to Branch Manager (BM), Market Manager (MM), and COO about unique or large potential opportunities well in advance.
• Develop bidding strategies through discussions with BM/DM, determining target work types, bid locations, and necessary resources, involving Operations in the process.
• Lead and participate in bid review calls, including cash flow analysis for larger projects.
• Ensure compliance with state and local tax laws and pre-qualifications, coordinating with the finance team.
• Collaborate with Market Manager, Sr. Estimator, and Operations Manager to refine cost estimation processes, focusing on realistic margins and standard costing approaches.
• Complete and submit the monthly Bid Pipeline report to the Market Manager in a timely manner.
• When project size or complexity exceeds capacity, involve additional estimators, BMs/DMs, or other districts as needed.
• Represent the company at industry events, building business and networking opportunities.
  

Key Leadership Competencies:

• Lead by example, emphasizing safety, business ethics, strong work habits, and work-life balance. Advocate for a safety-first culture, especially in construction environments.
• Excellent communicator who respects and earns the respect of subordinates, vendors, and customers.
• Engage in district-level discussions and be values-driven with a competitive spirit.
• Serve as a candid team builder and player.
• Understand the accountability of the role, focusing on maximizing profit and cash flow.
• Skillfully interact with customers and agencies regarding scheduling, disputes, and changes in scope of work.
• Negotiate effectively with customers and build strong relationships on behalf of the company.
• Work closely with operations teams to align capacity, execution, and profitability goals.
  

Education, Experience, and Skills Required:

• Proficiency in ERP systems, Excel, and Word; additional computer training will be provided.
• Understanding of job costing, bid-to-actual results, and variance analysis.
• Ability to "build" a project to determine the best estimation approach.
• Knowledge of industry-specific lines of business, as well as customer work types and state specifications for traffic control and protection, devices, materials, and methods.
• Familiarity with the equipment used within the operation, and standard cost structures associated with each piece.
• Strong communication skills to articulate scope, cost, and margin during bid reviews, with detailed cost breakdowns.
• Ability to analyze market trends, labor, and material costs, incorporating them into bids.
• Active involvement in industry through trade associations or coalitions, especially with state DOTs or similar entities.
• Strong financial acumen, including understanding balance sheets and profit-and-loss statements.
• Sales training and experience in customer-facing roles is a significant advantage.
• Degree in Construction Management, Financial Management, or a related field preferred.
  

EOE Statement
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or veteran status.