Project Engineer or Estimator-Heavy Civil, California

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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