Senior Industrial Estimator – Watkinsville, GA

Work Location:  Watkinsville, GA

Rate: Not Defined / need Candidate’s requested rate

Hours: 40

The required qualifications are as follows:

• 7+ years of experience in construction estimating with a demonstrated focus on heavy civil and industrial projects

• Proven track record estimating large-scale industrial projects: data centers, power plants, petrochemical or manufacturing facilities, or similar complex builds

• Strong civil sitework and underground utilities background — this is a must-have

• Proficiency with professional estimating software (e.g., HCSS HeavyBid, On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, ProEst, or similar)

• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, geotechnical reports, and technical specifications

• Strong command of subcontractor bid solicitation, scope leveling, and bid package management

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to clearly present and defend estimates to project teams and clients

• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to thrive in a collaborative, in-office environment

• Bachelors degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred; equivalent field experience considered

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with industrial project types in the energy, utility, or advanced manufacturing sectors

• Background in both self-perform and subcontracted scopes across civil, structural, and mechanical/electrical systems

• Familiarity with design-build or EPC delivery methods

• Experience supporting or leading estimating teams

Position Details: Our client is seeking a Senior Industrial Estimator to lead the estimating function for its growing major projects portfolio, reporting directly to the VP of Preconstruction. This is a high impact role with a defined path toward a Chief Estimator position as the industrial division scales. The ideal candidate is a seasoned estimating professional who brings deep civil and industrial project experience, thrives in a collaborative office environment, and wants a long-term home where their expertise will shape the direction of the company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of comprehensive cost estimates for major industrial projects including data centers, power generation plants, and large-scale manufacturing facilities

• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for civil sitework, underground utilities, foundations, structural, and MEP systems

• Analyze project plans, specifications, and technical documents to define full project scope and identify risk areas

• Develop and maintain long-range budgets and conceptual estimates to support preconstruction planning and client decision-making

• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers to gather pricing, validate assumptions, and ensure estimate accuracy

• Evaluate subcontractor and vendor bids; prepare bid leveling and scope gap analyses

• Utilize estimating software platforms to build organized, defensible, and repeatable estimate packages

• Identify and recommend value engineering options that maintain project quality and technical requirements

• Present estimates and budget analyses to internal leadership and client stakeholders

• Support business development efforts by contributing to proposal development and client- facing cost narratives

• Monitor and incorporate market trends in material pricing, labor rates, and subcontractor availability to keep estimates competitive

• Serve as a mentor and technical resource to junior estimating staff

Location & Work Environment:

This position is based in-office in Watkinsville, GA. Our client operates as a team — the kind of company where people show up, roll up their sleeves, and build things together. This is not a remote or hybrid-first role. The ideal candidate is someone who wants to be in the office, knows their colleagues, and is energized by working alongside a crew that’s invested in each other’s success.