Job Title:
Civil Estimator
Company: Hightower Communications, Inc.
Location: Lexington, NC
Created: 2026-05-08
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
The Civil Estimator professional is responsible for winning new work by developing accurate, competitive proposals for civil construction and drilling projects while building and maintaining strong client relationships. This role owns the estimating process from initial inquiry through contract award, works closely with the Project Superintendent to ensure seamless bid-to-build handoff, and actively pursues new business opportunities with telecommunications carriers, tower companies, general contractors, and direct clients. Reports directly to company ownership.Key ResponsibilitiesEstimating & Proposal DevelopmentLead estimating for civil construction and cell tower drilling projects ($50K-$2M+)Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from plans, specs, and site assessmentsDevelop complete cost estimates including labor, equipment, materials, subs, and markupBuild and maintain estimating databases (unit costs, production rates, historical data)Price foundation drilling (caissons, auger-cast, drilled piers), concrete, sitework, and utilitiesPrepare proposals, scopes of work, and bid submissionsEvaluate subcontractor quotes and integrate into pricing strategyAnalyze risk factors (soil, access, schedule) and apply appropriate contingenciesPresent proposals and negotiate scope, pricing, and contract termsBusiness Development & Client ManagementIdentify and pursue new work in telecom, civil, and infrastructure marketsBuild relationships with carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile), tower companies, and GCsConduct sales calls, attend industry events, and generate leadsRespond to RFPs, bid invites, and direct client requestsMaintain and manage CRM pipeline through full sales cycleServe as primary point of contact for preconstruction inquiriesDevelop repeat client relationships and strategic partnershipsRepresent the company at industry events and associationsSite Assessment & Preconstruction PlanningVisit job sites to evaluate conditions, access, and logisticsIdentify constraints (soil, utilities, environmental, access)Coordinate with engineers, clients, and stakeholders during preconstructionDevelop preliminary work plans and schedules for awarded projectsLead bid-to-build handoff Market Intelligence & Continuous ImprovementTrack market pricing, competitor activity, and industry trendsAnalyze win/loss rates and refine estimating strategyCompare estimated vs actual costs to improve accuracyCapture lessons learned with field teamsIdentify new service offerings and growth opportunitiesStay current on telecom and infrastructure developmentsCollaboration & ReportingCoordinate with Project Superintendent on scheduling and resourcesReport to ownership on pipeline, win rates, and market insightsSupport change order pricing on active projectsMaintain organized estimate files and cost historyParticipate in leadership meetings and planningQualificationsRequired:7+ years of construction estimating experience (civil, sitework, or heavy construction)Proven track record of winning work in competitive bid environmentsStrong knowledge of civil construction methods and materialsExperience with drilling, concrete, earthwork, and utilitiesAdvanced skills in estimating software (HCSS/HeavyBid or similar) and ExcelAbility to read and interpret plans, specs, and geotechnical reportsStrong communication and client-facing skillsBusiness development mindset with comfort in sales activitiesValid driver's license for site visitsWhat Sets You ApartExperience in telecom or tower constructionExisting relationships with carriers, tower companies, or GCsAbility to operate independently and drive revenue growth