Kimmel & Associates Logo

Project Engineer or Estimator-Heavy Civil

San Diego CA

$125,000 - $150,000

About the Company:

A well-established heavy civil general engineering contractor, specializing in marine and infrastructure work, is seeking marine construction professionals, as they have an urgent need to employ a Marine Construction Estimator or Project Engineer to join their team in Southern California. This is a high-growth opportunity, as their current and only estimator is nearing retirement. Direct, through-put estimating experience is not necessary, as the current estimator will stay on long enough to train and mentor for 1-3 years. Afterwards, this employee will retire, leaving a clear pathway for the Chief Estimator position. Increases in salary are certain to follow a successful first year. This contractor self-performs a high percentage of its work with in-house crews and specialized equipment.

The company is experiencing growth, which is occurring at the unfortunate time when many long-time employees are nearing retirement. So, this is an ideal growth opportunity for marine construction professionals in their first 5-10 years of their career. This company has many decades of profound market-share in the San Diego area, a leading contractor for NAVY contracts at the downtown and maritime waterfronts.

About the Position:

Key Responsibilities:

  • Manage the full estimating process: review drawings, conduct site visits, perform quantity take-offs, prepare scopes of work, and solicit subcontractor/supplier pricing.
  • Identify wage rates, develop pricing strategies, negotiate contracts, and process change orders.
  • Monitor procurement sites for relevant project opportunities from federal and local agencies.
  • Assist in developing project work plans, schedules, and submittals.
  • Draft subcontracts, interface with owners and engineers, and coordinate RFIs and submittals.
  • Maintain organized electronic and physical project documentation.
  • Support additional tasks as assigned.

Requirements:

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in marine construction estimating.
  • PE license and a degree in civil or construction-related engineering preferred (not required).
  • Strong ability to interpret blueprints, perform take-offs, and understand labor/equipment requirements.
  • Familiarity with applicable wage rates and production rates for marine and civil scopes.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel; experience with estimating software (HCSS preferred).
  • Valid driver’s license, ability to pass a drug screening and federal background check.
  • Prior experience with federal marine construction projects (e.g., USACE/NAVFAC) is a strong plus.

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Health, dental, and life insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Weekly pay schedule
  • Some travel may be required

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday
  • In-person work required
  • Must be willing to relocate to San Diego, CA (prior to start date)
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