Excavation Estimator

Overview

On Site
$120,000 - $140,000
Full Time

Skills

Estimator
construction

Job Details

This Estimator ideally has excavation or site utility or demolition experience, but can also come from a general contractor. Ideally, this person has 8+ years of commercial estimating experience and must be able to commute to Lakeview Chicago. Every single day in the office compensation range could be up to 200 K per year.

Certainly! Here s a tailored job description for an Excavation Estimator position in Chicago, IL that includes the requirement for at least 7 years of experience and allows for candidates with a general contracting background:

Position Summary

We are seeking a seasoned Excavation Estimator to join our team and lead the bidding process for complex sitework and excavation projects. The ideal candidate will have at least 7 years of estimating experience in heavy civil, excavation, or general contracting. This is a key position with growth potential and the opportunity to make a direct impact on the company s continued success.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare detailed, accurate estimates for excavation and sitework projects, including earthwork, grading, trenching, demolition, and utilities

  • Analyze project plans, specifications, and geotechnical reports to develop bid strategies

  • Perform quantity takeoffs and cost analysis using estimating software and historical data

  • Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing

  • Collaborate with project managers, field operations, and clients to ensure scope clarity and budget alignment

  • Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and client presentations

  • Track market trends, material costs, and labor rates to maintain competitive and profitable bids

  • Support value engineering efforts and change order pricing when needed

Qualifications

  • Minimum of 7 years of experience in construction estimating, preferably in excavation, site development, or heavy civil projects

  • Experience from the general contracting side is acceptable and welcomed, provided you have relevant sitework and excavation exposure

  • Strong knowledge of excavation methods, equipment, materials, and production rates

  • Proficient with estimating software (such as HCSS HeavyBid, AGTEK, or similar), Bluebeam, and Microsoft Excel

  • Ability to read and interpret civil drawings, specifications, and survey data

  • Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills

  • Self-motivated and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple bids under tight deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field

  • Familiarity with local municipal and IDOT specifications and standards

  • Existing relationships with Chicagoland subcontractors and suppliers

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary based on experience

  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) benefits

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • A supportive, fast-paced team environment with opportunities for advancement

  • Stability with a respected and growing contractor in the Chicago area

Employers have access to artificial intelligence language tools (“AI”) that help generate and enhance job descriptions and AI may have been used to create this description. The position description has been reviewed for accuracy and Dice believes it to correctly reflect the job opportunity.