Results and performance orientedEstimatorEstimator – Heavy Civil / Earthwork / Structures / RoadwaysLocation:Offices in Orange County, Los Angeles County, and San Diego CountySalary Range:$68,000 – $145,000 (DOE)Type:Full-TimePosition OverviewEstimatorto join our Southern Region team. This role is responsible for preparing accurate, comprehensive, and timely cost estimates forheavy civil, structures, roadways, and earthwork projectsacross both public and private sectors.Key ResponsibilitiesEstimating & Bid Developmentpre-bid meetingsand coordinate proposal requirements with internal stakeholders.quantity take-offs, cost breakdowns, and pricing for all self-perform and subcontracted work.RFIsand clarifications during the bid process.Coordination & Technical SupportClient Relations & Team Leadershipbusiness developmentand client communication during preconstruction and bid phases.Junior Estimators or Interns, promoting best practices and technical proficiency.QualificationsConstruction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (preferred).3 years of estimating experiencein heavy civil, earthwork, structures, or roadways.plans, specifications, and geotechnical reports.Bid2Win(required)Bluebeam,Agtek,SketchUpPrimavera P6,SureTrak,MS Projectcontract accounting, critical path scheduling, and time-impact analysis.CompetenciesCompensation & BenefitsBase Salary:$68,000 – $145,000 (DOE)Comprehensive Benefits Package:medical, dental, vision, and life insurance401(k) Programwith employer contributionPaid Vacation, Sick Leave, and HolidaysEmployee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)participationRelocation assistanceavailable for qualified candidates
We’re seeking a detail-driven and analytical
The ideal candidate has strong technical expertise in take-offs, plan reading, and bid preparation for large-scale infrastructure work — including highways, rail, underground utilities, bridges, and paving. This position requires a balance of precision, collaboration, and commercial awareness to deliver competitive bids and profitable results.
Review project specifications, drawings, geotechnical reports, and site conditions to define the scope of work.
Attend
Prepare detailed
Identify risk factors, evaluate contract terms, and provide recommendations to the Chief Estimator and Division Manager.
Develop and track
Maintain accurate files, cost databases, and historical bid data for reference and benchmarking.
Monitor post-bid activities and assist with contract procurement and turnover.
Coordinate bid preparation efforts across project management, estimating, and administrative teams.
Collaborate with other divisions, subcontractors, and suppliers to confirm scope alignment and pricing accuracy.
Prepare budgets, purchase orders, subcontracts, and assist in the development of preliminary project schedules.
Support awarded projects through pricing change orders, value engineering, and cost tracking as required.
Foster and maintain professional relationships with owners, subcontractors, and vendors.
Take an active role in
Mentor and train
Bachelor’s degree in
Minimum
Strong understanding of project phasing, means and methods, and risk analysis.
Proficient in reading and interpreting
Advanced computer skills, including:
Familiarity with
Strong written and verbal communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
Valid driver’s license required.
Analytical and solution-oriented thinking
Excellent time and project management skills
Detail-focused with strong mathematical aptitude
Clear communication and collaboration skills
Ethical and process-driven approach
Results and performance oriented
Freqently Asked Questions
Estimators in Walnut balance detailed quantity take-offs with close coordination among subcontractors to tailor bids for Southern California’s infrastructure market. Familiarity with regional materials pricing and regulatory conditions helps deliver competitive, profitable proposals in the heavy civil and earthwork sectors.
Estimators tackling Orange County projects must expertly interpret geotechnical reports and manage multiple subcontractor scopes amid strict public sector requirements. The region’s complex permitting and environmental standards demand precise risk evaluation to avoid cost overruns on roadway and structural bids.
Holding certifications like Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or familiarity with Caltrans standards boosts credibility. Proficiency in software such as Bluebeam and Primavera P6 also enhances efficiency, helping estimators excel in LA County’s competitive civil infrastructure sector.
Junior Estimators should hone skills in quantity take-offs and reading detailed project plans, alongside mastering bid software tools. Developing strong communication for coordinating with project teams and subcontractors is vital for upward mobility in heavy civil earthwork roles.
Estimators prioritize preconstruction activities—analyzing plans, cost breakdowns, and bid preparation—while Project Managers oversee execution and Field Engineers handle onsite technical issues. This focus on precise financial forecasting distinguishes the Estimator’s role in delivering profitable bids.
Heavy civil Estimators often progress to Chief Estimator roles or expand into project management. San Diego’s infrastructure growth offers chances to lead multidisciplinary teams, engage in business development, and influence contract negotiations within a dynamic construction environment.
At Alan N. Daum And Associates, Estimators collaborate closely with project managers and subcontractors to ensure scope alignment and accurate pricing. The company fosters mentorship, encouraging knowledge sharing to maintain high standards in heavy civil bid development.
Beyond numbers, Estimators at Alan N. Daum And Associates guide junior staff, manage client communications during preconstruction, and anticipate risks. This leadership supports cohesive team efforts and strategic business growth in competitive project bids.
Estimators in Walnut typically earn between $68,000 and $145,000 annually, depending on experience and project complexity. Those with over three years in heavy civil or earthwork estimating, and proficiency with industry software, can command salaries at the higher end.
Mastering Bluebeam, Agtek, and Primavera P6 is essential for Walnut Estimators working on heavy civil projects. These tools streamline quantity take-offs, scheduling, and cost tracking, directly impacting bid accuracy and overall project competitiveness.
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