ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Bid Contractor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

pcg

Senior Estimator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Work directly with owners, construction managers, architects, engineers, and contractors * Attend pre-bid site walk-throughs * Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and estimates * Dissect projects into ...

pcg

Senior Estimator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Work directly with owners, construction managers, architects, engineers, and contractors * Attend pre-bid site walk-throughs * Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and estimates * Dissect projects into ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBid Contractor JobsBid Contractor Jobs in Iowa

Bid Contractor information

What is a bid contractor?

Bid contractors are professionals or companies who submit proposals or tenders to secure contracts for construction, renovation, or various projects. They review project specifications, estimate costs, and provide detailed bids to clients or general contractors. Their main goal is to win contracts by offering competitive pricing and demonstrating their ability to complete the work efficiently and to standard. Bid contractors may specialize in specific trades or offer general contracting services depending on the project's scope.

How does a bid contractor typically collaborate with project managers and estimators during the bidding process?

A Bid Contractor works closely with project managers and estimators to ensure that proposals are accurate, competitive, and aligned with client requirements. This collaboration often involves reviewing project specifications, clarifying scope details, and strategizing on cost-effective solutions. Bid Contractors also coordinate with suppliers and subcontractors to gather pricing and availability information. Effective teamwork and communication are crucial, as these roles often meet regularly to update timelines, adjust estimates, and address any challenges that arise during the preparation of bids.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bid contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bid Contractor, you need a solid understanding of construction or service industry practices, cost estimation, and contract law, often supported by relevant education or experience. Proficiency in bid management software, spreadsheets, and project management tools is typically required. Strong negotiation, attention to detail, and effective written communication are essential soft skills for producing compelling and accurate bids. These skills ensure competitive, compliant bids and successful project acquisition in a highly competitive environment.

What is the difference between Bid Contractor vs Subcontractor?

AspectBid ContractorSubcontractor
CredentialsTypically holds general contractor licenses, bidding certificationsSpecialized trade licenses, certifications in specific fields
Work EnvironmentWorks directly with project owners or general contractorsWorks under the direction of a general contractor or Bid Contractor
Role in ProjectsPrepares bids, manages overall project scopePerforms specific tasks or trades within the project
Industry UsageCommonly involved in project bidding and contract negotiationsFocuses on executing specific parts of a project

The main difference between a Bid Contractor and a Subcontractor is that the Bid Contractor is responsible for submitting bids and managing the overall project scope, while the Subcontractor specializes in executing specific tasks within the project under the Bid Contractor's or general contractor's supervision.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Bid Contractor jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Bid Contractor job openings:

Bid Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bid Contractor job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Estimator/Project Manager Assistant

Walford, IA • On-site

The Contractor Consultants
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about The Contractor Consultantsexternal

$50K - $55K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Estimator/Project Manager Assistant – Support Growing Commercial & Government Fencing Projects with Taves Contracting


Job Overview:

  • Company: Taves Contracting
  • Salary/Pay Rate: $50,000 - $55,000 per year plus Performance Based Bonus
  • Location: Walford, IA
  • Job/Employment Type: Full Time
  • Project Scope: Residential, Commercial, Industrial, and Government/Federal Fencing
  • Mandatory Licences & Certifications: Driver’s License


The Opportunity:

You will play a pivotal role in driving our expansion from a minimalist residential fence contractor into a major regional competitor in the commercial and government sectors. You will work directly with project logistics and help us build efficient back-room workflows to define the future of our growing business. This is a hands-on, casual environment where your common sense and decision-making skills directly impact company success.


How You Will Make an Impact:

  • Search for and identify strategic new commercial and government project opportunities to bid.
  • Complete detailed material take-offs to prepare accurate project cost estimations.
  • Coordinate project material orders to ensure site crews have necessary supplies on time.
  • Prepare change orders and temporary fence proposals for ongoing operations.
  • Input new project details into internal systems to ensure seamless tracking.
  • Maintain strict adherence to all project bid submission deadlines.
  • Organize and systemize computer files to optimize overall office efficiency.


Required Qualifications & Experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Strong practical common sense and confident decision-making skills.
  • Basic computer literacy and administrative organizational skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, non-traditional office environment.


Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

  • At least 1 year of experience in construction estimating or project management assistance.
  • Prior exposure to the fencing, commercial construction, or civil contracting industries.
  • Familiarity with reading blueprints or material take-off processes.


Compensation & Benefits:

  • Reliable weekly pay cycle.
  • Performance-based bonus opportunities tied to project success.
  • Structured mentor training to support your career development.
  • Casual work environment with a strict no-suits policy.
  • Paid time off


About Us:

Taves Contracting is a fast-growing fence contractor headquartered in Walford, Iowa. Having expanded from residential roots into major commercial and federal sectors, we maintain a down-to-earth, collaborative culture focused on continuous growth and practical solutions.


Taves Contracting is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.