Civil Estimating Manager (Plano)

Civil Estimating Manager

Location: Plano, Texas (Hybrid/Remote Considered)

Department: Preconstruction & Estimating

Reports To: Director of Preconstruction

Our client is a major renewable energy contractor across North America, with it's US head office in Plano, TX.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Civil Estimating Manager to lead civil and balance-of-plant (BOP) estimating efforts for industrial-scale renewable energy projects. This role will play a critical part in securing new utility-scale solar, wind, and battery energy storage system (BESS) projects by developing competitive, accurate, and risk-aware cost estimates.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in civil engineering and proven experience estimating large infrastructure or renewable energy construction projects (100MW+ scale preferred).

This position is based in Plano, TX . Hybrid or remote work arrangements may be considered for highly qualified candidates, with periodic travel to headquarters and project sites as required.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Preconstruction Leadership

• Lead preparation of detailed civil cost estimates for utility-scale renewable projects, including:
• Site grading and earthwork
• Roads and access improvements
• Foundations (driven piles, drilled piers, spread footings)
• Underground utilities and drainage systems
• Stormwater management and erosion control
• Substation and interconnection civil scopes
• Develop conceptual, preliminary, and final bid estimates.
• Oversee quantity takeoffs using digital modeling and estimating software.
• Review drawings, geotechnical reports, and specifications to identify risks and opportunities.
• Coordinate subcontractor and supplier pricing efforts.

Commercial & Risk Management

• Conduct bid leveling and subcontractor evaluations.
• Identify cost risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Support value engineering initiatives to improve cost efficiency.
• Partner with business development and project management teams during RFP responses.
• Present estimate reviews to executive leadership.

Team & Process Development

• Mentor and supervise civil estimators and takeoff specialists.
• Implement best practices for estimating systems, cost databases, and benchmarking.
• Collaborate with engineering and construction teams to capture lessons learned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering , Construction Management, or related field.
• 8+ years of civil construction estimating experience.
• 3+ years in renewable energy or large industrial infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated experience with projects exceeding $100M in value.
• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., HCSS HeavyBid, Bluebeam, Primavera, or similar).
• Strong knowledge of:
• Earthwork and mass grading
• Geotechnical interpretation
• Civil foundations for solar/wind
• Large-scale site development
• Ability to read and interpret IFC drawings and technical specifications.

Key Competencies

• Strong commercial awareness and cost risk analysis skills.
• Leadership and team-building ability.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• High attention to detail with a strategic mindset.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Travel Requirements

• 10–25% travel to project sites and corporate meetings.
• Occasional travel to client meetings and industry conferences.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary ($180,000 – $200,000 depending on experience)
• Annual performance bonus
• Long-term incentive plan eligibility
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Flexible work arrangements (hybrid/remote considered)
• Professional development and licensure support