Estimator (Preston Pipelines Infrastructure)

Job Description

Job Description

With more than 55 years of experience and over 450 employees, Preston Companies is a leading construction company comprised of Preston Pipelines, Preston Electric, and DirtMarket. Together, our teams deliver critical utility, electrical, and soil management services that support communities throughout Northern California and Nevada.

We believe great projects start with great people. That's why we invest in our employees through opportunities for career growth, professional development, and hands-on experience working on complex, high-impact projects. Whether you're just starting your career or bringing years of industry expertise, you'll be part of a team that values safety, accountability, camaraderie, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Our commitment to People, a Preston core value, speaks for itself. Preston Companies has been recognized as a Bay Area Best Place to Work for six consecutive years (2021–2026) by the San Francisco Business Times and Silicon Valley Business Journal. Based entirely on employee feedback, this recognition reflects the culture our teams have built together. Our people are the foundation for our success—each individual brings unique ideas and new opportunities that support our collective growth. Together, we're excited to discover what possibilities may lie ahead!

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Estimator to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for reviewing project plans and specifications, preparing accurate cost estimates, and coordinating with subcontractors, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure competitive and successful bids.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze project plans, specifications, standard requirements, and soil reports.
• Submit pre-bid Requests for Information (RFIs) to owners or engineers as needed.
• Perform material take-offs and verify all estimated Schedule of Values (SOV) quantities.
• Obtain a minimum of three competitive quotes from subcontractors, material suppliers, and trucking companies.
• Attend pre-bid meetings or arrange for a representative to attend in your absence.
• Conduct site visits and find documents with photographs.
• Prepare detailed bid proposals using HCSS HeavyBid.
• Contact DVBE, UDBE, and SBE contractors to meet project participation goals, ensuring maximum credit compliance per project specifications.
• Ensure the most current addendums, amendments, project plans, and specifications are accounted for in the bid process.
• Record verbal quotes on quote sheets and request formal written quotes for documentation.
• Confirm bid bonds are ordered when required, coordinating with the estimating assistant.
• Verifying all bid submittal documents are complete and accurate, coordinating with the estimating assistant as needed.
• Have bids reviewed by a Senior Estimator or Manager at least one day before submission.
• For Prime Contractor bids:
  • Finalize bid details and prepare bid schedule values at least two hours before submission.
  • Print bid documents and delivery instructions one day before submission.
• For Subcontractor bids:
  • Draft and review scope letters with a Senior Estimator or Manager one day before submission.
  • Distribute scope letters to Prime Contractors ahead of the bid deadline.
  • Prepare bid proposal sheets and have them reviewed at least two hours before submission.
  • Submit final bid to Prime Contractors at least one hour before the bid deadline.
• Save all bid documents in the appropriate project bid folder.
• Obtain and analyze bid results promptly.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers to promote company growth.
• Review project estimates and budgets in collaboration with the Project Manager (PM).
• Attend project startup meetings with the PM, Project Engineer, Superintendent, and Foreman to ensure alignment on work scope, schedule, and production goals.
• Assist the PM in reviewing purchase orders and subcontracts.
• Participate in weekly cost-to-complete reviews with the PM and incorporate insights into future estimates.
• Work with the PM to develop and maintain the project schedule.
• Assist in preparing change order estimates using HCSS HeavyBid, as needed.
• Manage multiple estimates and tasks simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• Adapt to dynamic work environments and perform additional tasks as necessary.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in heavy civil construction estimating, with emphasis on underground wet utility projects including sewer, water, and storm drain systems.
• Proficient in construction estimating software including HCSS HeavyBid and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong understanding of heavy civil construction means and methods, production tracking, labor and equipment costing, and subcontractor/vendor solicitation.
• Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, utility maps, and contract documents.
• Experience preparing quantity takeoffs, bid summaries, subcontractor comparisons, and estimate reviews.
• Valid California Driver’s License with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple bid deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in all phases of the estimating process.

• Commitment to Preston Pipelines’ safety culture, quality standards, and operational excellence.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• Experience estimating public works projects for municipalities, counties, and utility districts throughout Northern California.
• Familiarity with alternative delivery methods including design-build and negotiated work.
• Experience with budgeting, project cost tracking, and transitioning estimates into operations.
• Relationships with local subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors within the heavy civil market.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and career growth.

• Pay Range: $100,000–$125,000, annually, based on experience and role requirements
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options
• Financial Benefits: Retirement savings plans with potential employer contributions
• Paid Time Off: Paid holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Professional Development: Access to training, certifications, and opportunities for career advancement
• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness resources
• Additional Perks: Additional company-provided and voluntary benefits may be available based on eligibility

Location

• This position is onsite based out of Sacramento, CA.
• Expect to do some travel within the Bay Area and Sacramento.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Preston Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.If this role sounds like a great fit, we'd love to hear from you!

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