Entry-Level General Estimator (Water/wastewater)

Slayden Constructors Inc. is currently seeking an Entry-Level General Estimator to be based out of our company headquarters in Salem, Oregon.

The Entry-Level General Estimator will assist with preparing cost estimates at different levels of design for various project delivery systems, such as Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC), Progressive Design-Build, and Hard Bid. Projects will consist of wastewater treatment facilities, potable water treatment facilities, hydropower facilities, fisheries, pipelines, and various water infrastructure projects ranging from $1 million to $100 million.

Slayden is a leader in the construction industry, with a primary focus on water and wastewater infrastructure. Slayden is built on strong values, hard work, and a commitment to getting the job done right. The success of our company is best expressed through our efforts to provide a safe workplace with respected employees and a committed management team. Our approach has provided steady growth in work volume, successful career development for personnel, and an extensive list of satisfied clients for more than 30 years.

Essential Functions

• Assist with reviewing solicitation documents, including specifications, drawings, and addenda, to understand project scope and identify potential risks and opportunities related to competitive pricing.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and assist with preparing labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and indirect cost estimates.
• Support the preparation of cost estimates for proposals, projects, and studies, ensuring that assigned portions are complete, accurate, and meet the requirements of the Estimating Manager.
• Assist with coordinating estimating information with Engineering, Procurement, and Operations.
• Support the Estimating Manager and senior estimators in preparing conceptual, preliminary, and detailed estimates of varying scope and complexity.
• Assist with reviewing completed estimates, including labor hours, materials, equipment, subcontractor, construction, and home-office costs.
• Assist with developing pricing structures and applying labor rates, unit costs, productivity assumptions, quantities, and cost allowances to project takeoffs.
• Obtain, organize, and verify quotations from subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors for construction projects, addenda, and contract changes.
• Communicate with subcontractors and suppliers regarding questions, scope requirements, and compliance with construction documents.
• Compile and analyze bids under the direction of experienced estimating personnel.
• Assist with developing and maintaining Work Breakdown Structure codes, cost codes, and resource-loaded estimates.
• Prepare estimate summaries, comparison sheets, reports, and supporting documentation for internal review.
• Participate in constructability reviews and assist with identifying project risks, discrepancies, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Assist with researching, soliciting, and developing relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and other members of the construction supply chain.
• Review and incorporate historical information from purchase orders, subcontractors, and productivity reports to help improve estimating accuracy.
• Maintain organized and accurate estimating files in accordance with company procedures.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and job walks as required to evaluate existing conditions, understand project scope, and support the development of accurate estimates.
• Perform other estimating and preconstruction duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant construction experience.
• 0 to 2 years of construction, engineering, estimating, or related experience.
• Basic knowledge of construction methods, materials, equipment, drawings, and specifications.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations and accurately organize numerical information.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to producing accurate work.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet established deadlines.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with estimators, engineers, project teams, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Willingness to learn estimating software, company procedures, and heavy-civil construction practices.

Preferred Qualifications

• Internship, cooperative education, field, or project experience in construction, engineering, or estimating.
• Exposure to heavy-civil, industrial, water, wastewater, pipeline, or infrastructure projects.
• Familiarity with CM/GC, Construction Manager at Risk, Progressive Design-Build, or Hard Bid estimating.
• Experience performing quantity takeoffs or preparing cost estimates through coursework, an internship, or previous employment.
• Exposure to construction cost control, scheduling, or resource loading.
• Familiarity with HCSS HeavyBid estimating software.
• Familiarity with PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, or similar takeoff software.
• Interest in developing a long-term career in construction estimating and preconstruction.

Physical Requirements

This position is primarily office-based but may require periodic travel to project sites, pre-bid meetings, and other construction-related locations. The employee may be required to attend pre-bid meetings, participate in site visits, and perform job walks in active construction or undeveloped project environments.

While performing these duties, the employee may be required to stand or walk for extended periods; navigate uneven, rough, muddy, or sloped terrain; climb stairs or ladders; bend, stoop, crouch, or reach; and work outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions. The position may also require the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) while visiting active construction sites.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Benefits

• Health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible Time Off Policy, including vacation, sick, and personal time
• Paid Parental Leave Program
• 10 paid holidays
• 401(k) Plan with company-matching contributions of up to 4%
• Employee Referral Program

Slayden, including its parent company MWH, is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees on the basis of age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Slayden offers reasonable accommodation in the hiring and employment process for individuals with disabilities. If you need assistance in the Application or hiring process to accommodate a disability, you may request an accommodation at any time.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled individuals and veterans.

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