Lead Estimator - Houston, TX

Overview:
We are seeking an experienced Lead Estimator to oversee the preparation of competitive, detailed, and strategic bids for large-scale heavy civil projects in Texas. This role requires hands-on leadership in the development of cost estimates, bid proposals, and contract negotiations while managing a team of estimators and support staff. The Lead Estimator will be responsible for 25-50 bids annually, ranging from $5M to $100M, and will play a key role in securing projects that align with our business growth strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Direct and manage the full estimating process, including bid structuring, pricing, scheduling, and final closeout.
• Analyze historical productivity data, labor and equipment costs, material quotes, and subcontractor pricing to ensure accuracy in estimates.
• Develop comprehensive conceptual budgets and provide final cost analysis for all bids.
• Offer technical guidance to estimators preparing detailed bid components.
• Review project plans, specifications, and attend pre-bid meetings to assess scope and critical requirements.
• Lead scope review meetings and collaborate with construction managers and clients on bid expectations.
• Develop and present value engineering strategies and CPM schedules to optimize project feasibility.
• Drive formal bid presentations and lead final contract negotiations with key stakeholders.
• Maintain and enhance estimating software, including labor, crew, activity, and master codebooks.
• Transition successful bids into project execution, ensuring proper budget and cost control structures are in place.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation and backup data for all estimates.
• Monitor awarded contracts, including pricing for extra work items, change orders, and project credits.
• Support procurement teams in bid evaluations and subcontractor negotiations.
• Collaborate with Business Development to align estimating efforts with long-term growth strategies.
• Mentor and develop junior estimators to enhance team capabilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field; or equivalent technical training and industry experience.
• 10+ years of experience in estimating, cost control, or engineering within the construction industry, with at least 3 years in a Senior or Lead Estimator role.
• Strong background in heavy civil construction, with experience in Design-Build and Best Value contracts preferred.
• Proven ability to estimate a variety of project types, from unit price to lump sum and DOT contracts.
• Exceptional leadership, analytical, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids concurrently while maintaining high accuracy and attention to detail.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to lead high-profile infrastructure bids and drive strategic growth in Texas. If you're an experienced estimator looking for a leadership role with significant impact, we encourage you to apply!

ersg are an equal opportunities employer; we are committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all job applicants. We do not discriminate against applicants on the basis of age, sex, race, disability, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or religious background; all decisions are based on merit.