Senior Estimator

Overview

Cajun is a key player in the marine construction market providing turnkey services from design and construction through mechanical completion.  We service and construct numerous types of projects ranging from the lower Mississippi River and its tributaries to coastal and offshore waters. Cajun specializes in marine projects that demand intensive planning and constructability reviews, and intricate construction. We are rooted in safety and feature company-owned equipment including ocean-class barges that allow us to operate safely and in compliance with regulations when working outside of the line of demarcation. Cajun has delivered both design-build and bid-build marine projects for a wide range of clients in various industry sectors.

The Senior Estimator position is accountable for the preparation of large-scale marine construction cost estimates, takeoffs, and gathering information required for project proposals.  Activities of the incumbent include working closely with the project team(s) to ensure success in the bid proposal and award process.  The ideal candidate in this position possesses a detailed understanding of inland marine construction of docks, terminals, breasting and mooring structures, fenders, bulkheads, bridges, navigation locks, flood protection systems, heavy concrete and steel structures, and modular construction, as well as marine equipment. 

Responsibilities

*The following are intended as general illustrations of the work in this job class and are not all-inclusive.

• Reports to the Manager of Estimating and works closely with the Senior Vice President, Senior Construction Manager, and the Management Team to help ensure success in the bid estimation process for marine construction projects.
• Leads efforts to develop comprehensive plan and timetable to complete project estimates.
• Consults with vendors, personnel in other business units or construction superintendents/engineers to discuss and formulate estimates and resolve issues
• Contacts all material suppliers and subcontractors involved in a given project and solicits quotations on needed bid items
• Analyzes plan documents and other data to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates
• Establishes proper sequencing of construction, labor requirements, and productivity, including allowances for bad weather and other unforeseen circumstances
• Reviews and analyses bid documents for items relating to project risk, cost or company capability
• Confers with engineers, owners, contractors and subcontractors on changes and adjustments to cost estimates
• Designs, or coordinate design, of temporary structures such as shoring, false work, cofferdams, formwork, and templates
• Reviews material and labor requirements to determine whether it is more cost-effective to produce or purchase components
• Organizes estimates, quotations, notes, plans, and other pertinent data for final pre-bid review and leads discussion of individual bid items
• Calculates a final figure for the estimated cost, supplemented by adjustments for overheads and profit, and presents a bid price
• Coordinates bid closeout and final proposal preparations
• Coordinates technical and commercial proposal writing, with assistance from marketing/proposal team
• Travels as required to attend meetings, site visits, training, etc.
• Reports status on assigned tasks and escalates any identified potential issues
• Helps guiding and mentoring junior estimators
• Interfaces effectively with clients
• Performs additional assignments per management’s direction

Qualifications

General

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management is required
• 8 years of estimating experience in marine construction or 12 years combined field and project estimating experience in marine construction required
• Knowledge of the practical application of engineering and technology
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Strong problem solving and decision-making skills
• Very high attention to detail
• Strong organization and time management skills
• Excellent communication and organizational skills are essential, both written and verbal
• Proficiency with Excel
• Provide proof of clean driving record
• Must be neat in appearance and punctual

• Knowledge and ability to use and comprehend advanced math and complete calculations
• Work at various tempos; ability to maintain concentration amid distractions
• Decision-making and problem solving skills necessary
• Detail-oriented; must be able to remember, examine, and observe details

Physical:  While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee may be required to:

• Remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for extended periods during office work and meetings.
• Operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
• Frequently communicate and exchange accurate information in person, electronically, and during virtual or telephone meetings.

Mental:  While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee may be required to:

• Direct, collaborate with, and communicate with executives, clients, and project teams. 
• Interpret and apply company policies, safety protocols, and written instructions. 
• Perform mathematical calculations, analyze business data, and review project estimates.
• Maintain accuracy, productivity, and attention to detail while managing competing priorities in an active office environment with frequent interruptions. 
• Process, retain, and manage complex project details, contractual requirements, and client data.