OPT Estimator Jobs

Job Summary:

Assists in the preparation of accurate and competitive cost estimates and bid documentation for construction projects by reviewing plans, specifications, and pricing information. Supports preconstruction efforts through quantity takeoffs, vendor and subcontractor coordination, documentation review, and collaboration with project teams.

Main Responsibilities:

• Embrace the Company’s safety culture, actively support all safety initiatives, and adhere to defined accountabilities implemented by the Safety Steering and Continuous Improvement teams.

• Support, promote, and practice the Company’s core values, vision, and mission; follow code of ethics, workplace conduct, safety, and other established policies.

• Order, review, read, and interpret construction plans, proposals, drawings, and specifications, including preliminary and incomplete documentation.

• Assist in the preparation of accurate project cost estimates, bid proposals, contracts, and standard estimating forms using established procedures.

• Assist project engineers, project managers, and senior estimators with estimating practices, data collection, and bid preparation activities.

• Participate in project setup meetings and bid-to-project handoffs with project managers and superintendents.

• Perform detailed material quantity takeoffs and support cost analysis activities.

• Communicate with subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors to obtain pricing, scope clarifications, and supporting documentation.

• Participate in bid review meetings with internal leadership and, when applicable, project owners or owner representatives.

• Assist in the development of preliminary project schedules and identification of critical phases.

• Support the presentation of completed estimates to senior management and project stakeholders.

• Follow up with owners and clients on submitted bids; track and report bid outcomes to management.

• Assist with post-project reviews by comparing estimated costs to actual project costs and identifying variances or improvement opportunities.

• Maintain and update estimating databases, bid software, and related tracking tools.

• Support market analysis activities, including tracking competitor activity, bid volume, and backlog information.

• Coordinate with other regional teams as needed to support bidding processes.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.

• Valid Driver’s License and clean driving history required.

Skills:

• 3+ years of estimating or construction-related experience preferred; experience with highway paving, bridge construction, utilities, municipal, heavy civil, or commercial construction a plus.

• Proficiency with computers and mobile devices (Android/iOS), including Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams); experience with estimating and construction software such as HCSS, Bluebeam, Microsoft Project, or similar programs preferred.

• Ability to read, understand, and interpret technical diagrams, financial data, and related documentation.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Analytical mindset with solid problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with team members at all levels of the organization.

• Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements:

• Wears and maintains required PPE (personal protective equipment) to ensure safe performance of job responsibilities as required.

• Regularly lifts and/or moves up to 50 pounds with or without assistance to handle documents, equipment, and materials needed to support office and field-related operations.

• Regularly uses hands to feel, handle, and manipulate objects, write, and operate a keyboard and/or mobile device to complete administrative tasks, documentation, and communication duties.

• Regularly communicates (talks and hears) and uses visual acuity to exchange information, coordinate work, and review documents and plans necessary for project oversight.

• Regularly operates a vehicle to travel to and from work sites to perform inspections, attend meetings, and support project activities.

• Regularly sits for long periods at a desk using a computer to perform administrative, planning, and reporting responsibilities.

• Frequently stands or works on feet for extended periods and walks across uneven terrain to navigate construction sites safely.

• Frequently stands, walks, sits, reaches, and stoops, kneels, crouches, or crawls to access work areas and complete required tasks.

• Frequently works in environments that may include loud noise, moving equipment, dust, or varying indoor/outdoor conditions depending on operational needs.

• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and overtime; overnight travel may be required.

Benefits and Perks:

• Choice of 3 Medical Plan Options

• Prescription Drug Coverage

• Dental and Vision Plans

• Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Options

• Access to Telemedicine and Healthcare Advocacy Services

• Paid Parental Leave

• Employee Assistance Program

• Life and AD&D Insurance

• Disability Insurance

• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays

• 401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match

• Product and Service Group Discount Programs

The information contained herein is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job, nor are they intended to be an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Application window anticipated to close on 07/24/2026; open until filled.

Colas Inc. and its subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to:

• to meet the requirements of the role in which you are applying
• complete any part of the application process

access or use the online application process and need an alternative method for applying

Please contact Colas Inc. at 973-290-9082 or send an email to ColasRecruiter@colasinc.com.