Job Description
Job DescriptionSalary:
Position Summary
First Star Safety is seeking a skilled and analytical Construction Project Estimator to lead and support our bidding efforts across a range of public and private roadway and construction projects. This role plays a critical part in helping shape the future of our projects by reviewing bid documents, preparing competitive cost proposals, analyzing risks, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and profitability.
The ideal candidate has strong technical skills in estimating, knowledge of DOT/ODOT regulations, and the ability to manage multiple complex bids simultaneously. Experience with Microsoft Office and Deltek is highly preferred.
Key Responsibilities
Estimation & Bid Management
- Analyze requirement documents, blueprints, and specifications to prepare accurate cost estimates for labor, materials, and equipment.
- Perform detailed quantity take-offs and confirm material pricing using digital takeoff software or blueprint reviews.
- Lead preparation and submission of bid proposals, ensuring compliance with bid instructions and regulatory requirements.
- Conduct pre-bid site visits, when warranted, to verify project conditions.
Vendor & Contractor Engagement
- Maintain strong relationships with suppliers, engineers, and clients to gather necessary estimate inputs and stay updated on pricing trends.
Documentation & Reporting
- Organize and prepare complete bid packages including pricing sheets, supporting documentation, and internal handoff notes.
- Track actual project costs against original estimates to assess accuracy and identify trends.
- Generate post-bid review reports and collaborate with project managers to transition successful bids into execution.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Sales & the Project team to ensure accurate scoping and estimate alignment.
- Communicate bid strategy, status, and priorities to internal stakeholders clearly and proactively.
- Attend bid openings and pre-construction meetings as necessary.
Compliance & Process Improvement
- Stay current with ODOT, DOT, and OSHA standards as well as prevailing wage guidelines.
- Help maintain a library of unit pricing and historical project cost data to inform future bids.
- Participate in the ongoing refinement of estimating SOPs and templates using Deltek and Microsoft tools.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years experience in construction estimating, ideally with a general contractor or heavy highway firm.
- Strong background in roadway, traffic control, or pavement marking projects.
- Proven experience estimating public works and prevailing wage projects.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Deltek (or similar estimating/project management tools).
- Ability to read and interpret construction documents and specifications.
- Familiarity with Bluebeam, OnScreen Takeoff, or other digital takeoff platforms is a plus.
Skills & Attributes
- High attention to detail and accuracy in take-offs and calculations.
- Excellent time management and ability to handle multiple bids with varying deadlines.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to interface with multiple departments and external partners.
- Sound judgment and analytical skills for cost forecasting and risk analysis.
- Team-oriented, proactive, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
Education
- Bachelors degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Business, or a related field preferred.
- Equivalent combination of vocational training and relevant experience will be considered.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to work in office and job site environments; occasional travel to project sites (<10%).
- Must be able to sit, stand, walk, bend, lift up to 25 lbs., and read/communicate clearly.
- All First Star Safety employees are subject to our Substance Abuse Prevention Policy, including pre-employment and random drug screening.
Statement of Flexibility
We reserve the right to change or modify job duties and assignments at any time. The above description reflects the core responsibilities and qualifications but may evolve based on business needs.