Estimator

Ames Construction has been building America for more than 60 years, and the people who work here are the reason we continue to succeed. 

We are a full-service, heavy civil and industrial contractor building critical infrastructure, including highways, bridges, mines, dams, rail, and more. Our teams take on challenging projects that keep communities safe, supply chains moving, and the country connected. 

At Ames, we are Fueled by Family and Driven by Ownership. That means we look out for one another, take pride in what we build, and take responsibility for our actions, our results, and the long-term health of the company. 

Guided by our core values of People, Team, Our Bond, Persistence, and Vision, we do what we say we will do, push through challenges and deliver work we’re proud of. 

When you join Ames, you’re joining a company built for long-term success — where skilled people, strong teams, and disciplined execution come together to build careers and a better future.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Estimating & Bid Preparation

• Review and analyze plans, specifications, schedules, milestones, permitting requirements, and contractual obligations for incorporation into the estimate.

• Perform quantity take-offs using computer-aided tools.

• Compute production-based cost estimates in HCSS Heavy Bid software following Ames Estimating protocols.

• Identify risks and opportunities for assigned items.

• Assist in developing bid documents, construction schedules, and proposals.

• Solicit, analyze, and enter into bid software quotes from material suppliers and subcontractors.

• Prepare clarifications, inclusions, and exclusions for proposals.

Collaboration & Vendor Management

• Collaborate openly with the estimating team.

• Consult with vendors/subcontractors to confirm scope.

• Compare and validate quotes for coverage.

Site & Project Support

• Attend pre-bid site visits.

• Support transition of successful projects to Operations.

Team & Relationship Development

• Help recruit and develop the estimating team.

• Build relationships with clients, communities, and partners.

Operational Excellence

• Follow all estimating procedures to win work.

• Maintain confidentiality, meet deadlines, and prioritize safety.

• Demonstrate growing expertise across multiple work types (earthwork, underground pipe, concrete, etc.).

Qualifications

• Three or more years’ experience in general engineering construction. 

• Bachelor’s degree in construction, engineering, or construction management, or equivalent experience. 

• Ability to work in a team environment and be self-motivated.  

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with all levels internally and externally.

• Experience with HCSS Heavy Bid or similar estimating programs.

• Competent in the use of computer software applications including Bluebeam, Microsoft Word and Excel.

• Knowledge of - Scheduling software and AGTEK or similar earthwork programs. 

• Effective communication skills, both written and oral. 

• Ability to review and address technical issues with solutions in a timely manner. 

• Time management, multitasking, and prioritization. 

Working Conditions

• Location – This position will work out of our (OFFICE LOCATION).

• Travel – This role will be expected to travel to project locations and Area Offices as needed.

• Office environment – extensive sitting at desk and computer; some standing, bending at the waist, stooping and reaching required; ability to lift 5-20 pounds occasionally.

• Construction site environment – physical ability to stand, walk, crawl, bend, reach and climb. Exposed to the elements and project site conditions. 

Ames Construction is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.