Lead Estimator- Water Projects

As a Lead Estimator in Los Angeles, you'll be responsible for preparing detailed estimates by reviewing proposal specifications and drawings, attending pre-bid meetings, and analyzing historical data. Your role includes consulting with clients and vendors to create precise estimates that align with project goals, ensuring that all aspects of the project meet both budget and scheduling demands.

Candidates interested in the Lead Estimator position must hold a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field. Additionally, at least 5 years of experience in the construction industry, ideally with specialized knowledge in estimating or cost control, is preferred. Appropriate certifications and advanced knowledge of HCSS Heavy Bid Estimating Software are also necessary to succeed in this role.

In the role of Lead Estimator at our Los Angeles location, you will provide pivotal technical input regarding project risks. By conducting thorough reviews of contract data and collaborating closely with the estimating team, you'll identify potential risks related to costs and project scope, allowing for informed decision-making and strategic bid submissions.

Proficiency in HCSS Heavy Bid Estimating Software is essential for the Lead Estimator position. This tool is vital for calculating accurate takeoffs and for ensuring that all estimates reflect the true scope of work and cost considerations related to water projects, helping to streamline the estimating process.

Lead Estimators at our Los Angeles office enjoy a comprehensive compensation package, including a competitive salary that starts at $165,000, paid time off, and wellness benefits. Our employees also benefit from medical care, a robust 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement programs, fostering professional growth and work-life balance.

When answering this question, highlight specific projects you've worked on, detailing your role in estimating and how you ensured accuracy. Emphasize any unique challenges you faced in water projects and how you overcame them, showcasing your problem-solving skills.

Articulate your time management strategies. Provide examples of past situations where you prioritized tasks effectively, streamlined workflows, or collaborated with team members to meet tight deadlines without compromising accuracy in your estimates.

Discuss specific features of the HCSS software that you are familiar with, such as takeoff calculations or bid submissions. Provide an example of a project where you utilized the software to enhance the estimating process, demonstrating your technical proficiency and its impact on the project outcome.

Highlight your interpersonal skills and approach to effective communication. Discuss techniques for building rapport with clients and vendors, such as active listening and providing clear and concise information, which are critical in formulating accurate estimates.

Share your method for identifying potential risks, perhaps through a checklist or review process. Discuss how you prioritize addressing these risks and any strategies you implement to mitigate them before finalizing an estimate.

Reflect on specific challenges you've encountered, such as fluctuating material costs or compliance with regulatory standards, and discuss how you adapt your estimating approach to handle these complexities effectively.

Provide an example of your leadership experience, detailing how you organized the team, delegated tasks, and ensured everyone collaborated effectively to produce a comprehensive and accurate estimate.

Discuss your process for aligning estimates with company values and strategic plans, including your understanding of the company's objectives, past historical data analysis, and ongoing communication with other departments.

Explain how you engage in continuous learning, whether through training, attending industry conferences, or networking with other professionals, to remain informed about the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in estimating.

Detail your preparation process for project hand-off meetings, including how you gather relevant data, coordinate with team members, and create a concise presentation to ensure a smooth transition from the pursuit phase to project management.