Estimator

Job Summary:
The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, complete, and competitive cost estimates for pipeline and facility construction projects from the conceptual stage through final bid submission. The Estimator performs quantity takeoffs, develops labor, equipment, and material pricing, solicits and evaluates subcontractor and vendor quotes, and works closely with project management, engineering, and business development to assess project scope, identify risks, and support proposals that meet client requirements and company profitability targets.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review bid documents, drawings, specifications, and scope narratives to fully understand project requirements prior to preparing an estimate.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from plans, drawings, and specifications for pipeline, facility, and civil construction scopes of work.
• Develop and maintain accurate unit costs for labor, equipment, materials, and subcontracted work based on historical data, vendor quotes, and current market conditions.
• Solicit, evaluate, and compare pricing from subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers to ensure competitive and complete bid coverage.
• Analyze project drawings, engineering specifications, and process designs for cost-effectiveness, and provide suggestions for alternatives when applicable.
• Prepare conceptual, budgetary, and final estimates and bid proposals, ensuring that budget quotes and proposals are accurate and completed with professional quality.
• Collaborate with clients, vendors, and personnel from other departments to discuss and develop estimates for resolving issues.
• Coordinate with project management, engineering, and operations personnel to clarify scope, resolve ambiguities, and validate estimate assumptions.
• Identify and document project risks, exclusions, clarifications, and assumptions to be incorporated into the final bid proposal.
• Develop preliminary project schedules and craft labor projections in support of the estimate and proposal.
• Assist in the preparation of change order estimates and pricing for scope changes during project execution.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site walks, and client meetings to gather information necessary to develop a comprehensive estimate.
• Prepare bid tabulations and comparisons for management review, and support final bid strategy decisions.
• Ensure that a trend program is in place and that estimate revisions, change orders, and clarifications are processed and documented promptly.
• Maintain and update historical cost databases, unit pricing, and productivity benchmarks to improve the accuracy of future estimates.
• Collaborate with the business development team to identify and pursue new project opportunities and support proposal development.
• Ensure all estimates comply with company standards, bid instructions, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Support project handoff to the project management team by providing a clear scope basis, budget breakdown, and estimate documentation at project award.

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Excel, Word, Project, Outlook, and construction estimating/takeoff software.
• Demonstrated analytical, mathematical, and organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
• Must be a problem solver with the ability to evaluate alternatives and find cost-effective resolutions.
• Must be self-motivated and capable of working with minimal supervision or direction.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents accurately.
• Demonstrates strong written and oral communication skills and utilizes effective listening skills.
• Demonstrates a tactful, mature, and professional demeanor with well-developed interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse personnel.

Education & Experience:

Basic

• A minimum of 3-7 years of experience in construction estimating, preferably in oil & gas pipeline or facility construction, including quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, vendor and subcontractor bid solicitation, and bid proposal development.
• Proficiency in estimating and takeoff software and project management software
• Strong knowledge of pipeline and facility construction methods, materials, and industry standards  

Education & Experience:

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field
• Experience with FERC, PHMSA, or other regulatory agencies

Physical Requirements

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job (but are not limited to). The employee is frequently required to sit for extended periods while using a computer, and occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, and stoop, kneel, or crouch, including during job site visits. Manual and finger dexterity, and hand-eye coordination sufficient to operate office machinery and computer equipment are required. The incumbent must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 (twenty-five) pounds unassisted. Visual acuity, hearing, speaking, reading, and writing must be adequate to perform all required tasks safely.

Work Environment

The noise level in the work environment is typically low to moderate in the office setting and can be loud during occasional visits to active job sites. Work is typically conducted indoors in an office environment, with occasional travel to client facilities or job sites for site visits and pre-bid meetings, with prior notice.

AAP/EEO Statement

It is the policy of Badlands Contracting, LLC. to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. In addition, Badlands Contracting, LLC. will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Other Duties

Please note that this job description is not intended to encompass a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.