Jobloria
Estimator
Smith Arnold Partners
Location : Hartford, CT, 06103
Job Type : Full Time
Salary : $80,000 - $120,000 annually
Date Posted : 1 December 2025
Smith Arnold Partners
Job Title: Estimator – Sitework & Civil Construction
Company Overview:
Position Summary:
Key Responsibilities:
Analyze civil drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and bid documents.
Perform detailed quantity take-offs for excavation, grading, utilities, concrete, asphalt, and erosion control.
Solicit pricing from subcontractors and suppliers; evaluate bids for scope, cost, and compliance.
Work closely with project managers, engineers, and field supervisors to ensure alignment between estimates and execution plans.
Maintain organized records of estimates, bid results, and historical cost data.
Job Title: Estimator – Sitework & Civil Construction
Location: Near Ellington, Connecticut (Tolland County)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $80,000 – $120,000 annually, commensurate with experience
Company Overview:
A well-established and privately held construction firm located in the Ellington, CT area is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Estimator to join its growing team. The company specializes in site development, earthwork, utility installation, and heavy civil infrastructure projects across Connecticut. With a strong reputation for quality workmanship, safety, and client satisfaction, the firm offers a collaborative work environment and long-term career growth opportunities.
Position Summary:
The Estimator will play a critical role in the pre-construction phase, responsible for developing accurate and competitive cost estimates for a variety of sitework and civil construction projects. This includes public and private sector work such as commercial site development, municipal infrastructure, roadway improvements, stormwater systems, and underground utilities. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of civil construction practices, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to work effectively with internal teams, subcontractors, and clients.
Key Responsibilities:
Project Evaluation & Scope Review
Analyze civil drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and bid documents.
Conduct site visits to assess existing conditions and project feasibility.
Estimating & Cost Analysis
Perform detailed quantity take-offs for excavation, grading, utilities, concrete, asphalt, and erosion control.
Develop cost breakdowns for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
Prepare comprehensive bid proposals and budgets for competitive and negotiated projects.
Subcontractor & Vendor Coordination
Solicit pricing from subcontractors and suppliers; evaluate bids for scope, cost, and compliance.
Maintain and expand a network of qualified vendors and subcontractors.
Collaboration & Communication
Work closely with project managers, engineers, and field supervisors to ensure alignment between estimates and execution plans.
Participate in pre-bid meetings, client presentations, and value engineering sessions.
Documentation & Reporting
Maintain organized records of estimates, bid results, and historical cost data.
Assist in post-bid reviews and project handoffs to operations teams.
Qualifications:
Minimum 3–5 years of experience in estimating sitework and civil construction projects.
Proficiency in estimating software such as HCSS HeavyBid, Agtek, Bluebeam, or similar tools.
Strong knowledge of excavation, grading, utility installation, stormwater systems, and DOT standards.
Ability to read and interpret civil plans, specifications, survey data, and geotechnical reports.
Excellent math, analytical, and organizational skills.
Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred (but not required).
Compensation & Benefits:
Salary: $80,000 – $120,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications.
Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement: 401(k) plan with company match.
Time Off: Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
Professional Development: Training, certifications, and advancement opportunities.
Work Environment: Supportive team culture with a focus on safety, integrity, and long-term success.
- Max. file size: 100 MB.
- reCAPTCHA
- Recaptcha requires verification.
- reCAPTCHA is changing its terms of service.
VP Construction Recruiter
Freqently Asked Questions
Hartford's civil construction sector is moderately competitive for Estimators, with growth in infrastructure projects increasing demand. Candidates with experience in sitework and utility installation often have an edge, especially when proficient with local DOT standards and estimating software, making this a promising area for skilled professionals.
While a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or construction management is beneficial, certifications like Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or proficiency in software like HCSS HeavyBid can significantly boost an Estimator's profile in the Ellington area, aligning well with local project compliance and client expectations.
Smith Arnold Partners fosters growth by encouraging Estimators to deepen their expertise in sitework and civil construction. Ambitious professionals can transition into senior estimator roles or project management positions, supported by ongoing training and involvement in complex municipal and commercial infrastructure projects.
Estimators focus on precise cost forecasting and bid preparation before construction begins, whereas Project Managers oversee the execution phase ensuring timelines and budgets align with those estimates. At Smith Arnold Partners, collaboration between these roles is vital to maintain project integrity and client satisfaction.
Daily responsibilities include analyzing civil drawings and specifications, performing detailed quantity take-offs for materials like concrete and asphalt, soliciting subcontractor bids, and coordinating with project teams to ensure estimates match execution plans. Attention to detail and strong communication are essential.
Estimators in Hartford focusing on sitework and civil construction generally earn between $80,000 and $120,000 annually. Compensation varies based on experience, proficiency with estimating software, and ability to manage multiple bids effectively in this specialized sector.
Yes, the company provides comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision insurance, and a 401(k) with matching. Additionally, Estimators benefit from training programs and certification support, promoting career advancement within a safety-conscious and collaborative environment.
Candidates with strong analytical skills, experience with software like Bluebeam or Agtek, and a thorough understanding of excavation, grading, and stormwater systems tend to excel. Effective communication with subcontractors and a track record of delivering accurate, competitive bids are highly valued.
The market in Hartford leans toward candidates with 3–5 years of relevant experience in sitework and civil estimating, given the complexity of projects. However, motivated individuals with a related degree and proficiency in estimating tools may find opportunities for junior roles or internships.
Smith Arnold Partners is distinguished by its specialization in heavy civil infrastructure and a supportive team culture emphasizing safety and quality. Their commitment to long-term employee growth and competitive salaries makes them a sought-after employer in the Hartford area.
Find The Related Jobs
Ives & Associates Inc
Estimator
Brea, CA
Jobseekers are also searching for