Chief Estimator

Ames Construction has built America for more than 60 years, and the exceptional people who make up our team are a vital factor in our success. We are a full-service, heavy civil and industrial general contractor that brings innovative solutions to many market segments, from highway and bridge construction to mining and rail. Ames is an employee-owned company that retains its entrepreneurial spirit while offering the experience and stability of a proven construction industry leader. Equipped with our core values of People, Team, Our Bond, Persistence, and Vision, we make communities across the U.S. safer, keep supply chains moving, and lay the groundwork for a sustainable future. By joining Ames, you will be working with talented colleagues at an award-winning, nationally recognized top 65 general contractor.

The Estimator is the individual responsible for preparing designated tasks for bids, cost estimates and proposals assigned by the Office Chief Estimator or Senior Estimator leading the bid, in accordance with Ames Values and Strategic Plan. This position will assist or support each assigned bid or proposal with quantity takeoffs, pricing and preparation of estimates. The Estimator is an Ames’ representative and must conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times to reflect positively on Ames.

The Estimator reports directly to the Office Chief Estimator and collaborates with a Senior or Lead Estimator on assigned projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Analysis of plans, specifications, and other related engineering documents.
• Study and understand measurement and payment terms, schedules, milestones and permitting requirements, etc.
• Following and using Ames Estimating Manual protocols and procedures
• Computer-aided preparation of quantity take-offs, verification of site conditions, review of construction methods and equipment utilization.
• Responsible for timely, thorough and accurate quantity take-offs.
• Assist in preparing bid documents and developing bid construction schedules.
• Assist in soliciting material suppliers and subcontractors.
• Provide and compute production-based costs in HCSS Heavy Bid estimating software
• Assist in preparing quality proposals for the Offices pursuits.
• Consult with vendors and subcontractors to ensure a clear understanding of their scope of services.
• Compare and analyze subcontractor and material supplier quotes for necessary scope coverage.
• Review and understand contractual requirements for the scope of work assigned.
• Collaborate and assist with developing proposal clarifications, inclusions and exclusions for self-performed work and work performed by material suppliers and subcontractors.
• Attending pre-bid site visits and investigations.
• Responsible for ensuring and demonstrating cost certainty for items assigned to price.
• Identify risks and opportunities for items assigned to price (Risk Management).
• Assist in the closing of estimates.
• Provide support and transition for successful projects to Operations.
• Instill Safety as a top priority.
• Promote Ames and look for additional project opportunities.
• Assist with recruiting and developing the estimating team.
• Follow all operation procedures within all estimates to win work.
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, communities and partners.
• Maintain confidentiality with respect to sensitive items and information.
• Ensure assigned tasks deadlines are met.
• Demonstrate progressive understanding and responsibility in estimating job function including multiple work types (i.e. earthwork, underground pipe, concrete, etc.) HCSS Heavy Bid Program:
• Utilize the crew database for pricing the work. Only modify existing crews as needed.
• Responsible for pricing of assigned items of work in the estimate, with enough activities and detail to demonstrate reasonable cost certainty.
• Do not add, modify or change equipment pieces or rates in the equipment setup or labor rates without permission from the Chief Estimator.

Business Development

• Review publications for potential projects to bid as assigned by the Office Chief Estimator.
• Present potential leads on bid opportunities to the Office Chief Estimator.

Qualifications & Skills

• 3-7 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.
• Possess a positive attitude.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills to interface with owner representatives, engineering firms, subcontractors, other team members, and senior management.
• Competent in the use of computer software applications including HCSS Heavy Bid or similar estimating programs,
• AGTEK or similar earthwork programs, Bluebeam, Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Knowledge of Primavera P6 Scheduling.
• Strong communication skills both written and oral.
• Ability to review and address technical issues with solutions in a timely manner.
• Time management, multitasking, and prioritization.
• Must have a valid Driver’s License.

Working Conditions

• Location – This position will work at the local Office. 
• Work additional hours, as required, to complete bids/ estimates within deadlines. 
• Travel – This role will be expected to travel as needed to project locations and area Offices. 
• Office environment – extensive sitting at desk and computer; some standing, bending at the waist, stooping and reaching required; ability to lift 0-49 pounds occasionally. 
• Construction site environment – physical ability to stand, walk, crawl, bend, reach and climb. Exposure to elements and job site risks including high noise levels.

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.