Job Details

Overview

Chief Estimator role at The Dutra Group. The Chief Estimator is responsible for overseeing the estimating department and ensuring accurate and competitive cost estimates for construction projects. This role involves managing a team of estimators, coordinating with project managers and superintendents, and developing strategies to win bids.

The Chief Estimator is expected to perform estimating tasks and focus on more complex projects, while training employees to perform more routine estimating functions. The Chief Estimator is responsible for complete, accurate estimates for all contract types, collecting and analyzing all project costs, identifying and quantifying potential risks and cost uncertainties, and updating costs as necessary based on new information and project scope changes.

Note: The original description contains additional operational details and meeting expectations that are retained in the responsibilities section below.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Managing all Hanford employees designated to the estimating department and any Dutra staff assisting Hanford Estimating Efforts.
• Ensure all employees follow Dutra Standard Operating Procedures (DSOPs) and the following: proper file management using established company systems; appropriate solicitation of vendors and subcontractors.
• Annual review and modification (if needed) of DSOPs to refresh and retain staff of estimating standard practices. All modifications reviewed by the Director of Preconstruction and VP of Estimating.
• Schedule meetings with appropriate team members: Project Kickoff Meetings, Means and Methods, Bid Reviews, Bid Closeouts.
• Coordinate with key team members (VP of Estimating, COO, Director of Preconstruction, Director of Operations, Estimators, Superintendents, Project Managers, Project Engineers, Project Coordinators, Foremen, Estimating Admins) as needed for bid reviews and project sessions.
• Hold bid reviews that showcase project elements and estimate components: high risk items, payment terms and conditions, crew selection, project schedule and contract time, and close out of open bid items to distribute indirect costs and margins.
• Assist Estimating Coordinators on all bid documents and write-ups required for each bid.
• Collaborate with the Director of Preconstruction on CAPEX for the year and attend monthly managers meetings.
• Manage assigned projects from initial solicitation through handoff to the project team.
• Gather additional information beyond provided data to deliver a complete cost evaluation and make reliable cost predictions for all scopes of work.
• Incorporate cost history from prior projects into estimates where similar scopes apply and understand heavy equipment utilization to obtain detailed production rates based on anticipated crews.
• Coordinate time effectively to perform quantity take-offs and solicitations for materials, subcontractors, and professional services.
• Understand public works bid packages regarding prevailing wages, minority and small business participation, and final proposal details.
• Ensure all components of an estimate are included and documented with cost evidence.
• Prepare conceptual cost estimates and studies from schematic or feasibility documentation.
• Collaborate with project team members for estimate reviews, risk analysis, staffing needs, and project requirements.
• Maintain excellent time management and perform under pressure to meet project-driven deadlines.
• Read and understand permit documents from agencies (e.g., CDFW, USACE) and apply permit conditions to estimates when applicable.
• Responsible for other reasonable activities as required by management/leadership.

Required Skills

• Thorough understanding of standard estimating process
• Excellent listening, communication, organization, prioritization, and time management skills
• Strong oral and written business communication skills
• Solid work ethic and a can-do attitude
• Ability to read and understand construction drawings and specifications, with emphasis on grading plans
• Knowledge of planting, seeding (including hydroseeding), irrigation and plant maintenance
• Creative and innovative approaches to solve project-based problems

Education and/or Experience

• College degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering is required
• 15+ years of experience as a professional construction estimator, preferably within core markets
• 5+ years in a leadership role

Computer Skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; estimating database software (HCSS Heavy Bid highly desired); take-off software (on-screen take-off, Planswift, Bluebeam, etc.); construction bid invitation and bid management software (Smart Bid Net)

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Management and Manufacturing

Industries

• Construction

San Francisco, CA and related locations were listed as part of the original job description; this refined version focuses on the Chief Estimator role and its responsibilities.