Estimator

Ames Construction has been building America for more than 60 years, and our people 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. That means we look out for one another, take pride in our work, and build strong relationships rooted in trust and respect.

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.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Estimating & Preconstruction

• Analyze plans, specifications, contracts, and other engineering documents to develop accurate project estimates.
• Review and understand measurement and payment terms, project schedules, milestones, and permitting requirements.
• Follow Ames Estimating Manual protocols, standards, and procedures.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and verify site conditions using computer-aided estimating tools.
• Ensure all quantity takeoffs are timely, thorough, and accurate.
• Assist in the preparation of bid documents and preliminary construction schedules.
• Solicit and evaluate pricing from material suppliers and subcontractors.
• Develop production-based cost estimates utilizing HCSS HeavyBid software.
• Prepare and contribute to high-quality project proposals.
• Consult with vendors and subcontractors to ensure complete understanding of scope requirements.
• Review, compare, and analyze subcontractor and supplier quotations for scope completeness and cost accuracy.
• Interpret and understand contractual requirements for assigned scopes of work.
• Develop estimate clarifications, inclusions, and exclusions for both self-performed and subcontracted work.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and investigations.
• Ensure cost certainty for assigned scopes and pricing responsibilities.
• Identify and evaluate project risks and opportunities.
• Participate in estimate reviews and bid closeout processes.
• Support project handoff and transition activities to Operations teams.

HCSS HeavyBid Responsibilities

• Utilize established crew databases for estimate development, modifying existing crews only when necessary.
• Prepare detailed pricing for assigned work items with sufficient supporting activities and documentation to demonstrate cost certainty.
• Maintain consistency and accuracy within estimate structures and pricing methodologies.

Business Development

• Review industry publications, bid boards, and market opportunities for upcoming projects.
• Present viable project opportunities and leads to the Office Chief Estimator.
• Promote Ames Construction's capabilities and identify opportunities for future work.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, owners, communities, subcontractors, and industry partners.

Leadership & Team Development

• Assist with recruiting, onboarding, and developing estimating personnel.
• Demonstrate progressive responsibility and expertise across multiple construction disciplines, including earthwork, underground utilities, concrete, and other heavy civil work.
• Promote a collaborative team environment and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive business information.
• Ensure assigned responsibilities and deadlines are met.
• Foster a culture where safety remains a top priority in all estimating and operational activities.

Qualifications

Required Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Construction, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 3 to 7 years of experience in heavy civil or general engineering construction estimating.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of construction means, methods, and cost estimating principles.
• Proficiency with HCSS HeavyBid or similar estimating software.
• Experience with AGTEK or comparable earthwork modeling programs.
• Working knowledge of Bluebeam, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Excel.
• Knowledge of Primavera P6 scheduling software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical review capabilities.
• Effective time management, prioritization, and multitasking skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with clients, owners, engineering firms, subcontractors, project teams, and senior leadership.
• Positive attitude and self-motivated work ethic.
• Valid driver's license required.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based at a local Ames Construction office.
• Additional hours may be required to meet bid and proposal deadlines.
• Regular travel may be required to project sites, client meetings, and regional offices.
• Office environment includes extensive computer and desk work with occasional standing, bending, stooping, reaching, and lifting up to 49 pounds.
• Construction site visits may require standing, walking, climbing, bending, crawling, and exposure to varying weather conditions, elevated noise levels, and other typical construction site hazards.

Compensation

Salary Range: $110,000 - $130,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties and responsibilities may be modified at any time, with or without notice, to meet business needs.

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, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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.