Chief Estimator
Summary
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 will properly task individuals with assignments and work with each one to determine the proper workload that can be accomplished. The Chief Estimator is expected to perform estimating tasks and focus their attention 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. Collects and analyzes all project costs, including raw materials, labor, equipment and tooling to ensure estimates. Identifies and quantify potential risks and cost uncertainties to ensure costing models capture the full range of potential costs. Updates costs as necessary based on new information and project scope changes.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Managing all Hanford employees that are designated to the estimating department and any Dutra Staff that may be assisting the Hanford Estimating Efforts.
- Make sure that all employees that are working under him/her follow all estimating 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 will be reviewed by the Director of Preconstruction and VP of Estimating.
- Schedule the following meetings with appropriate Team Members: Project Kickoff Meetings, Means and Methods, Bid Reviews, Bid Closeouts
The following team members may need to be present at the above meetings: (VP of Estimating, COO, Director of Preconstruction, Director of Operations, Estimators, Superintendents, Project Managers, Project Engineers, Project Coordinators, Foremen, Estimating Admins)
- Holding bid reviews that showcase the following elements of the Project and Estimate: High Risk Items, Payment Terms and Conditions, Crew (Labor and Equipment) Selection, Project Schedule and Contract Time.
- Properly close out open bid items to ensure that indirect costs and margin are spread appropriately.
- Assist Estimating Coordinators on all bid documents and write ups required for each bid.
- Work with the Director of Preconstruction on CAPEX for the year.
- Attend monthly managers meetings.
- Handle assigned projects from initial solicitation through handoff to the project team.
- Ability to look beyond the information that has been given, take initiative to gather additional information and provide a complete cost evaluation.
- Ability to make reliable predictions related to cost and be comfortable estimating all scopes of work.
- Incorporate cost history from prior projects into estimates that require similar scopes of work.
- Understand heavy equipment utilization and how to obtain detailed production rates based on anticipated crews.
- Manage time appropriately to coordinate quantity take-offs and solicitations for materials, subcontractors, and professional services.
- Knowledge of public works bid packages regarding prevailing wages, minority and small business participation, and final proposal details.
- Ensure that all components of an estimate are included and that there is an ample trail of documented cost evidence.
- Prepare conceptual cost estimates and studies from schematic or feasibility-level documentation.
- Collaborate with project team members for estimate reviews, risk analysis, staffing needs and project requirements.
- Excellent time management skills and the ability to work under pressure in meeting specific project-driven deadlines.
- Ability to read and understand permit documents from CDFW, USACE and other agencies when preparing an estimate, and apply permit conditions to estimates as 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 written and verbal business communication skills
- A strong 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 solutions on a project-by-project basis
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 our 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).
#J-18808-Ljbffr