About this opportunity
Judge Direct Placement lists this Chief Estimator opportunity in irvine, California. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
We are seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead our clients estimating department and drive the successful pursuit of public works and infrastructure construction projects. This executive-level leadership role combines hands‑on estimating expertise with departmental oversight, strategic bid planning, team leadership, and business development.
The ideal candidate is a proven construction estimating professional with extensive experience in public‑sector projects, prevailing wage compliance, and leading high‑performing estimating teams.
You will play a critical role in developing competitive bids, managing risk, mentoring staff, and ensuring project profitability.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and oversee all estimating activities from project identification through bid submission
Develop and execute bid strategies that maximize competitiveness while maintaining profitability
Review and approve all estimates, proposals, and bid submissions
Maintain ongoing communication with executive leadership throughout the bidding process
Manage estimating schedules and prepare weekly bid calendars to ensure timely submissions
Prepare detailed conceptual and hard‑bid estimates for public works, municipal, educational, and infrastructure projects
Analyze plans, specifications, contracts, and bid documents to identify project scope, risks, and pricing opportunities
Perform quantity takeoffs, labor analysis, equipment pricing, and material cost evaluations
Conduct value engineering exercises to optimize project costs and improve bid competitiveness
Evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals and compare competitive trade bids
Public Works Compliance
Ensure all estimates comply with prevailing wage requirements and public agency procurement regulations
Identify D/M/WBE participation requirements and develop compliance strategies
Prepare all bid forms, proposal documentation, Statements of Qualifications (SOQs), RFQs, and RFP responses
Support Joint Venture pursuits, including preparation of JV manuals and bid documentation
Lead, mentor, develop, and supervise estimating staff
Assign workload and monitor performance of estimators and takeoff personnel
Foster professional growth through coaching and training initiatives
Establish estimating procedures, standards, and best practices
Manage project and bid setup within
Procore
BuildingConnected
SmartBid
On‑Screen Takeoff (OST)
Utilize estimating and project management systems to maintain accurate records and reporting
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
10+ years of estimating experience on public works or government‑funded construction projects
5+ years leading or managing estimating teams
Demonstrated success developing and winning large, complex construction bids
Ability to interpret construction plans, specifications, contracts, and technical documents
Experience performing conceptual estimating, hard bidding, and value engineering
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Worksite address
irvine, CA, 92713, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.