What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator position at Durr Heavy Construction?
Job Description
Job Title: Estimator
Summary of Responsibilities:
The Estimator is responsible for preparing cost estimates for private and public projects, including commercial, industrial, and municipal projects based on their understanding of construction plans, specifications, and their knowledge of this industry. Provides continuous monitoring of open bids, RFP’s and estimates to inform management of either new business awards or lost opportunities.
Taking Charge
Durr TAKES CHARGE in constructing strong foundations to build upon. Our focus is to do it SAFE and to do it RIGHT the first time. Our vision is to make an IMPACT and to KICK ASS, INNOVATE, MAKE MONEY, HAVE FUN and REPEAT every day/all day. We hold every employee to this standard of “Taking Charge” and we expect this behavior to drive everything we do.
The Take Charge ESTIMATOR:
Bid Administration
· Reviews bid/proposal requirements thoroughly and asks follow-up questions timely
· Understands and is familiar with Heavy Bid software
· Solicits and maintains communication with subcontractors and vendors insuring competitive pricing is obtained for all cost categories
· Identifies areas of scope that would require subcontractor engagement
· Prepares subcontractor and material supplier bid packages
· Constructs a preliminary project schedule
· Performs quantity takeoffs that are accurate and organized for all materials, equipment, etc. required to perform the scope of work
· Enters all relevant takeoff and sub supplier quote information into HCSS
· Completes estimate early and coordinates bid review to look for innovative ways to increase our opportunity to win the work and assure the best possible proposal for the work
· Submits 100% of bids and budgets by the bid deadline
Project Knowledge
· Participates in pre-bidding decision making efforts; reviews drawings and specifications, perform site visits, gathers, and fully documents information related to site access, surface topography and drainage, overhead or access restrictions and the availability of electricity, water, and other services.
· Double checks all critical work deliverables, subcontractor, and supplier quotes to minimize inefficiencies and ensures all bid components support the project cost and schedule
· Develops a detailed and properly organized cost estimate for the entire project, which includes the costs of labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, overhead, taxes, insurance, markup, and any additional costs that may affect the project
· Has a thorough understanding of the scope for specific projects and trades assigned
· Analyzes and addresses any scope gaps
· Creates a plan for execution of the work, involving project management and operations as often as possible
· Minimizes exclusions
· Constructs accurate cost estimates so the job can be built for the budget
· Performs a comprehensive “bid day” analysis
· Includes value engineering ideas on every bid for current or future consideration
· Identifies opportunities and risks within each bid/proposal for discussion and decision‐making purposes
· Turns over project documents, estimate and proposal information to project management and operations team in a highly organized, timely and thorough manner
Follow up & closing
· Follows up on submitted proposals, bids, and budgets with architects, engineers, developers, and contractors to close opportunities and acquire intelligence on new projects
· Develops and maintains relationships with current and prospective clients handling interactions in a manner designed to build long-term relationships
· Keeps abreast of marketplace knowledge based on interaction with subcontractors, suppliers, designers and developers
· Handles interactions with clients and subcontractors in a manner designed to build long term relationships
Project turnover
· Turns over bid documents and sub information to Project Management team in a timely manner
· Reviews drawings and project plan with Project Management team and highlight areas of concern
· Review job cost with Project Management team and highlight subs/material vendors that need to be awarded
The DURR Way:
Be Proactive
· Anticipate future needs and address today (not tomorrow)
Be Accountable
· Take ownership of your actions and honor your commitments made to other
Speak the Truth
· Always be honest and share your thoughts to improve yourself and the team
Go the Extra Mile
· Do what it takes to get the job done right and safe the first time
Give Praise
· Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of teammates
Be Part of One Team
· Build strong win-win relationships with all teammates
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
· In-depth understanding of heavy construction, including but not limited to demolition, earthwork, utilities, and concrete paving
· Detailed oriented with the ability to focus on quality and accuracy
· Possess an advanced understanding of estimating, quantity take-offs, production rates, crew types/sizes, etc.
· Able to work under pressure and coordinate numerous activities and manage groups of people who need to cooperate to achieve project and company goals
· Proficient with commercial estimating software, i.e. HCSS and construction scheduling software
· Proficient in Advanced Mathematics
· Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and improvement
· Strong written and oral communication skills
· Strong computer Skills
· Strong negotiating skills, including proactive dispute resolution
· Ability to maintain professionalism when faced with aggressive deadlines
Education and/or Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management or related field preferred. 5 to 7 years of applicable work experience as an Estimator in the construction industry with a preference for heavy construction.
Physical Demands/Working Conditions:
This role operates in a business office setting. The employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee is not regularly exposed to outdoor weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate. Individual will be required to convey a positive, professional image and attitude at all times.