Lead Civil/Structural Estimator - Oil, Gas, & Chemical

Kiewit Corporation - Houston, TX

Full-time - Senior

Houston, TX

Construction of Buildings

About the position

The Lead Estimator - Civil/Structural is a career-level professional responsible for managing all aspects of the estimating process from kickoff to turnover. This role is pivotal as it requires leadership and expertise in indirect costs and estimate details, ensuring that the Estimate Sponsor's vision and strategic planning are effectively communicated to the estimating team. The Lead Estimator will work closely with the Estimate Sponsor to manage high-performing estimate teams, ensuring that the estimates are accurate and align with Kiewit's estimating standards. This position also provides an opportunity for career development by allowing the Lead Estimator to learn and understand other roles within Kiewit's Oil, Gas, and Chemical (OGC) business. Additionally, the Lead Estimator will assist the Estimate Sponsor in presenting estimates to the executive leadership team during estimate reviews. Kiewit Energy, established to serve the diverse and expanding energy market, provides cohesive engineering, procurement, and construction services to various industries, including oil, gas, refining, chemicals, and petrochemicals. The company emphasizes early contract involvement, fostering long-term relationships with clients, and delivering integrated schedules and realistic construction estimates. The position is located in the Energy Corridor of Houston, TX, where Kiewit relocates teams based on available work, development plans, skill sets, and career goals, creating a custom-designed career adventure for each team member.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of the estimate from kickoff to turnover.
• Read, analyze, and interpret contract documents (RFP, specifications, drawings) to develop detailed cost estimates for oil, gas, and chemical projects.
• Lead and mentor a team of Junior Estimators on specific proposals.
• Communicate civil construction methods clearly to price estimates accurately.
• Make assumptions based on experience when detailed plans are not provided, performing front-end estimating based on conceptual designs.
• Perform accurate quantity takeoffs for earthwork, concrete work, structural and miscellaneous steel, underground piping, and drainage.
• Identify bid qualifications, risks, and assumptions along with quantities and pricing, ensuring compliance with company practices and standards.
• Participate in estimate reviews and presentations to department heads and project management.
• Manage comparisons between self-perform estimates and subcontractor quotes.
• Analyze subcontractor and material quotes for responsiveness to the estimate and project requirements.
• Work with the engineering team to prepare value engineering solutions, including cost, schedule, and owner benefits.
• Prepare responses to Request for Qualifications (RFQs) and Request for Proposals (RFPs).

Requirements

• Degree in Engineering or Construction Management with an emphasis in Civil, Structural, Construction Management, or a related field is preferred.
• 5+ years' experience in construction/estimating, preferably on oil, gas, and chemical plant projects.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent communication, interpersonal, leadership, and team-building skills.
• Strong background in Bluebeam or equivalent PDF Editor, Microsoft Office Suites, and Construction Estimating Software (Hard Dollar experience is a plus).
• Developed organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Must possess a strong work ethic and demonstrate good organization, verbal and written communication skills.
• Results-oriented individual with the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with construction estimating software other than Hard Dollar.
• Familiarity with oil, gas, and chemical industry standards and practices.

Benefits

• Top-tier medical, dental, and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents.
• Voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Retirement plans with matching contributions.
• Generous paid time off.