Estimating Manager

Slayden is a leader in the construction industry, with a primary focus on water and wastewater infrastructure. Slayden is built on strong values, hard work, and a commitment to getting the job done right. The success of our company is best expressed through our efforts to provide a safe workplace with respected employees and a committed management team. Our approach has provided steady growth in work volume, successful career development for personnel, and an extensive list of satisfied clients for more than 40 years.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing multiple, simultaneous estimating projects and resources while maintaining company standards of quality and sponsoring the estimate through the operations and management team's reviews. Projects consist of wastewater treatment facilities, potable water treatment facilities, hydropower facilities, fisheries, pipelines, and various water infrastructure ranging from $1-200 million dollars. The position will require strong coordination and communication skills along with the ability to deliver high-quality cost estimates within the prescribed budget and schedule.

Essential Functions

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  Lead and mentor the estimating team, including senior and junior estimators, fostering professional growth and skill development.

  
  
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  Assign projects, prioritize tasks, and oversee workflows to ensure timely and accurate bid submissions.

  
  
• Provide leadership in developing and implementing best practices, procedures, and innovative techniques in estimating.
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  Oversee the preparation of detailed cost estimates for water/wastewater treatment plants, pipelines, pump stations, reservoirs, and other heavy civil projects.

  
  
• Review project drawings, specifications, and bid documents to identify scope, challenges, and opportunities.
• Validate quantity takeoffs, labor/equipment rates, and material costs for accuracy and alignment with company standards.
• Direct the preparation of bid packages, subcontractor quotes, and vendor proposals to ensure completeness and compliance.
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  Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and field teams to ensure estimates reflect constructability and practical approaches.

  
  
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and clients to ensure competitive pricing and mutual trust.
• Lead pre-bid meetings, site visits, and discussions with owners to clarify project requirements and expectations.
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  Analyze market trends, industry conditions, and project opportunities to align estimating efforts with business goals.

  
  
• Collaborate with leadership on go/no-go decisions for project pursuits.
• Contribute to building client relationships by providing expert consultation and preconstruction insights.
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  Maintain and update cost databases, historical project data, and production rates for water/wastewater and heavy civil projects.

  
  
• Provide detailed reports and presentations for leadership, outlining bid strategies, project risks, and cost trends.
• Conduct post-bid reviews to identify areas for improvement and incorporate lessons learned.
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  Ensure all estimates comply with company policies, project specifications, and legal requirements.

  
  
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with cost overruns, scope gaps, or scheduling challenges.
• Validate subcontractor and supplier qualifications for inclusion in bids.

Basic Qualifications

• BS in Engineering, Construction Management, other technical degree, or equivalent experience.
• 10 years of relevant construction experience of which 5 plus years of estimating experience, preferably incorporating various contract types.
• Working knowledge of self-perform construction equipment and techniques, drawings, and specifications, building materials and required standards.
• Understanding of water treatment plant processes and construction standards.
• Experience supervising other estimators to develop a comprehensive project estimate.
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel.
• The candidate should be comfortable working with designers, clients, and project managers through all levels of design from conceptual to 100% complete.
• Periodic travel may be required based on project needs.
• Strong computer skills are essential.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant field experience in heavy civil or industrial construction
• Experience with HCSS HeavyBid Estimating Software is preferred.
• Cost control and scheduling exposure is a plus
• Knowledge or experience in CMAR, Design-Build, and Design-Bid-Build estimates

Please note that all positions require pre-employment screening, including drug and background check, as a condition of employment.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.

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