Construction Estimator

Arcadis is the world's leading company delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets.

We are more than 36,000 people, in over 70 countries, dedicated to improving quality of life. Everyone has an important role to play. With the power of many curious minds, together we can solve the world’s most complex challenges and deliver more impact together.

Arcadis seeks an Estimator to join our team in California to play a critical role in supporting the successful delivery of Caltrans projects by providing accurate and competitive cost estimates. This position requires technical expertise, strong analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders to ensure project success.

Please note that this job posting is intended to build a talent pipeline for upcoming on-call opportunities in transportation construction and engineering. It is not for a specific, immediate position. Instead, we are collecting a pool of qualified candidates to fill future roles as needs arise within the industry across California.

Candidates selected from this posting may be contacted for future project-based assignments to assess their qualifications for upcoming opportunities. We appreciate your interest and look forward to potentially working with you in the future.

The Estimator is responsible for accurately estimating the costs associated with construction and engineering projects managed by Caltrans. This role requires a strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and labor costs, as well as the ability to analyze project specifications and develop detailed cost estimates.

Role Accountabilities:

• Analyze project plans, specifications, and related documents to prepare detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractors.
• Use historical data, industry benchmarks, and cost databases to ensure accuracy in estimating.
• Identify and quantify cost factors, such as production time, materials, and labor expenses.
• Prepare bid proposals for Caltrans projects, ensuring compliance with project requirements and specifications.
• Coordinate with subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors to obtain competitive pricing and bids.
• Evaluate subcontractor and supplier bids to ensure completeness and accuracy.
• Conduct cost analysis to compare actual costs with estimated costs and identify areas for improvement.
• Implement value engineering techniques to optimize project costs without compromising quality or performance.
• Collaborate with project teams to develop cost-effective solutions and alternatives.
• Identify potential risks and uncertainties in cost estimates and develop mitigation strategies.
• Evaluate and quantify risks related to pricing, scheduling, and project scope changes.
• Provide input to project teams on cost impacts of proposed changes or variations.
• Maintain detailed records of cost estimates, bid proposals, and related documentation.
• Prepare accurate and timely reports on estimated costs, bid results, and project status.
• Ensure compliance with Caltrans procedures and documentation requirements.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and stakeholders to gather necessary information for estimating.
• Communicate effectively with subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors to clarify bid requirements and resolve issues.
• Participate in meetings and presentations to discuss cost estimates and project bidding strategies.

Required Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in construction estimating, preferably on transportation infrastructure projects.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).

Key Skills and Abilities:

• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., HeavyBid, HCSS, Bluebeam) and MS Office Suite.
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills, with attention to detail.
• Knowledge of construction methods, materials, and industry standards.
• Familiarity with Caltrans specifications, guidelines, and procedures (preferred).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or similar certifications (preferred).

 

Why Arcadis?

We can only achieve our goals when everyone is empowered to be their best. We believe everyone's contribution matters. It’s why we are pioneering a skills-based approach, where you can harness your unique experience and expertise to carve your career path and maximize the impact we can make together.

You’ll do meaningful work, and no matter what role, you’ll be helping to deliver susta