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Contract Estimating Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Contract Admin - Fluid Systems Division Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 250 global leader in motion ... Evaluates performance requirements, delivery schedules, and estimates of costs of material ...

Evaluates performance requirements, delivery schedules, and estimates of costs of material ... Negotiates contracts of moderate scope and complexity in accordance with legal and company ...

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Evaluates performance requirements, delivery schedules, and estimates of costs of material ... Negotiates contracts of moderate scope and complexity in accordance with legal and company ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to ... Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions. * Oversee proposal ...

Support contract and subcontract administration and assist the Branch Manager, Project Managers, and Estimators as needed Salary range: $55,000-60,000 annual salary plus non-guaranteed annualized ...

Support contract and subcontract administration and assist the Branch Manager, Project Managers, and Estimators as needed Salary range: $55,000-60,000 annual salary plus non-guaranteed annualized ...

Contract Specialist Pay Rate: $115k to $125k, depending on experience Location: Irvine, CA Area ... Evaluates performance requirements, delivery schedules, and estimates of costs of material ...

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Contract Estimating information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$28.7K

$85.2K

$143.4K

How much do contract estimating jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract estimating in Riverside, CA is $85,210.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $121,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is contract estimating?

Contract estimating is the process of calculating the likely costs and resources needed for a construction or service contract. Estimators analyze project specifications, drawings, and other documentation to determine material, labor, equipment, and overhead expenses. Their goal is to provide accurate estimates that help set budgets, win bids, and ensure profitability for their organization. Estimators often work closely with project managers, engineers, and suppliers to gather up-to-date pricing and assess project risks.

What are some common challenges faced in a Contract Estimating role, and how can they be managed effectively?

One common challenge in Contract Estimating is accurately forecasting costs when project details or client requirements are incomplete or change frequently. Estimators often need to balance thorough research with tight deadlines, which can require effective time management and strong communication with project managers and suppliers. Collaborating closely with the engineering, procurement, and construction teams can help clarify project scopes and reduce the risk of costly errors. Staying updated on industry pricing trends and using up-to-date estimating software also helps ensure estimates remain accurate and competitive.

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

To thrive as a Contract Estimator, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a background in construction or engineering, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Proficiency with estimating software (such as Bluebeam or CostX), spreadsheet tools, and familiarity with contract documentation are typically required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively and manage multiple bids or projects. These competencies are vital for producing accurate cost estimates, securing profitable contracts, and minimizing financial risk for the company.

What's the average salary of an estimator?

The average salary of a contract estimator typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior estimators or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Certifications like CMAA or AACE can also influence earning potential.

What is the difference between Contract Estimating vs Construction Estimating?

AspectContract EstimatingConstruction Estimating
CredentialsEstimating certifications, construction knowledgeEstimating certifications, construction knowledge
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, project-specificOffice and on-site, project-specific
Industry UsageConstruction, contracting firmsConstruction, contracting firms
Primary FocusPreparing bid estimates for contractsPreparing cost estimates for construction projects

Contract Estimating and Construction Estimating are closely related roles within the construction industry. Both involve preparing cost estimates, require similar certifications, and often work in office environments. The main difference lies in scope: Contract Estimating focuses on bidding for specific contracts, while Construction Estimating covers broader project cost planning. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and professionals identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

Will estimators be replaced by AI?

Contract estimators perform detailed cost analysis and project scope assessments that require judgment and industry knowledge. While AI tools can assist with data analysis and cost estimation, they are unlikely to fully replace estimators due to the need for experience, negotiation skills, and understanding of project complexities.

How to become a contract estimator?

To become a contract estimator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, with many roles preferring a bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience in construction or related industries, developing skills in cost analysis and estimating software, and obtaining certifications such as the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) can improve job prospects.

What is a contract estimator?

A contract estimator is a professional who calculates the costs and prepares bids for construction or project contracts. They analyze project plans, materials, labor, and other expenses to ensure accurate and competitive estimates, often using specialized software and industry knowledge.
What are the most commonly searched types of Estimating jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Estimating jobs in Riverside, CA are:
Infographic showing various Contract Estimating job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,210 per year, or $41 per hour.
Director, Estimating

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 79 rated construction


Job description

Overview

Company Overview

Henkels & McCoy West works closely with clients from diverse markets to build enduring partnerships throughout the Western United States. Our team of seasoned professionals designs, builds, manages, and maintains critical and sustainable infrastructure for the power, oil & gas pipeline, gas distribution, and communications industries. Building on a 100-year legacy of performance and service to utility, commercial, industrial, and government clients, H&M West brings together extensive knowledge and innovation to deliver infrastructure construction solutions that meet future energy needs today.

H&M West is a purpose-driven company. Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an environment where team members can make an impact, grow, and thrive. A place where they find meaning and purpose in doing the important work of ensuring communities have the vital energy, light, and communications to prosper. Our culture is inclusive and welcoming. Our teams are empowered with abundant training, tools, and opportunities to follow their curiosity and ambitions. Everyone has an equal chance to advance. Everyone is supported, respected, and challenged to be their best. We’re always looking for talented and dedicated people to join us and love where they work.

Henkels & McCoy West is a proud subsidiary of MasTec (NYSE: MTZ), a Fortune 500 Company ranked by Energy News-Record as one of the leading contractors in the country. H&M West is part of the MasTec Power Delivery segment. We are certified as a minority-controlled company by the National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC). Our rich diversity of people and ideas makes us a stronger, more innovative organization.

Position Summary:

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and broader utility capital programs. This role provides oversight of estimate development, bid strategy, cost modeling, and risk evaluation to ensure proposals are accurate, competitive, and aligned with operational capabilities, client expectations, regulatory requirements, and company financial objectives.

Serving as a strategic partner to operations, business development, procurement, engineering, and executive leadership, the Director plays a critical role in assessing project opportunities, shaping gotomarket strategies, and driving profitable, sustainable growth within the T&D and gas infrastructure markets.


Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

  • Lead, mentor, and develop estimating teams supporting transmission, distribution, substation, gas, and related utility infrastructure projects.
  • Establish estimating standards, bid review processes, and preconstruction best practices across the T&D business.
  • Drive consistency in estimate development, documentation, assumptions, and handoff procedures.
  • Build team capability in conceptual estimating, detailed estimating, risk analysis, and proposal development.

Estimating & Preconstruction Management

  • Oversee preparation of conceptual budgets, EPC estimates, unit-price estimates, negotiated proposals, and competitive bids.
  • Review drawings, engineering packages, specifications, contracts, and client requirements to validate project scope.
  • Direct quantity takeoffs, labor analysis, equipment planning, subcontractor pricing, material costing, and productivity assumptions.
  • Validate pricing for transmission lines, substations, distribution systems, underground utilities, foundations, civil work, and renewable interconnections.
  • Ensure proper inclusion of indirect costs, escalation, contingency, permitting, environmental requirements, and regional labor factors.

Bid Strategy & Proposal Development

  • Lead bid/no-bid analysis and opportunity review processes.
  • Facilitate estimating review meetings and executive bid strategy sessions.
  • Oversee proposal schedules, deliverables, and submission requirements.
  • Support pricing strategies based on market conditions, client relationships, competition, and operational capacity.
  • Participate in client clarifications, scope negotiations, and contract reviews.

Financial & Risk Management

  • Analyze historical cost data, production rates, and project outcomes to improve estimate accuracy.
  • Review margins, fee structures, contingencies, and commercial assumptions.
  • Identify operational, contractual, schedule, labor, and procurement risks during pursuit phases.
  • Support forecasting, backlog analysis, and strategic planning initiatives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Partner with Operations, Engineering, Safety, Procurement, Project Controls, and Business Development teams.
  • Ensure effective turnover from estimating to project execution teams.
  • Support project kickoff meetings and scope alignment discussions.
  • Participate in customer presentations, proposal interviews, and relationship management activities.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.
  • 15+ years of progressive estimating experience within utility, power delivery, or heavy civil construction.
  • 10+ years of leadership experience managing estimating teams or preconstruction functions.
  • Strong knowledge of transmission lines, substations, distribution systems, utility relocations, and renewable energy interconnections.
  • Experience with self-perform construction, subcontractor strategy, equipment costing, and labor productivity analysis.
  • Working knowledge of utility contracts, EPC delivery models, unit-rate pricing, and design-build methodologies.
  • Proficiency in estimating and project management systems such as Bid2Win, InEight Estimate, Procore, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Excel.
  • Strong analytical, negotiation, and executive communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, or renewable developers.
  • Familiarity with utility clients such as Southern California Edison, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, San Diego Gas & Electric, or similar organizations.
  • Knowledge of union labor agreements and regional labor markets.
  • Experience with California utility and environmental regulations preferred.

Work Environment

  • Remote with occasional travel to project sites, client offices, and regional operations.

Salary Range: TBD

Benefits: 

Full-time employees are eligible to participate in our benefit plan which includes the following: 

  • 401(k) Plan
  • Annual bonus or incentive eligibility
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Paid time off

Henkels & McCoy West, LLC. is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.
  • 15+ years of progressive estimating experience within utility, power delivery, or heavy civil construction.
  • 10+ years of leadership experience managing estimating teams or preconstruction functions.
  • Strong knowledge of transmission lines, substations, distribution systems, utility relocations, and renewable energy interconnections.
  • Experience with self-perform construction, subcontractor strategy, equipment costing, and labor productivity analysis.
  • Working knowledge of utility contracts, EPC delivery models, unit-rate pricing, and design-build methodologies.
  • Proficiency in estimating and project management systems such as Bid2Win, InEight Estimate, Procore, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Excel.
  • Strong analytical, negotiation, and executive communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, or renewable developers.
  • Familiarity with utility clients such as Southern California Edison, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, San Diego Gas & Electric, or similar organizations.
  • Knowledge of union labor agreements and regional labor markets.
  • Experience with California utility and environmental regulations preferred.

Work Environment

  • Remote with occasional travel to project sites, client offices, and regional operations.

Salary Range: TBD

Benefits: 

Full-time employees are eligible to participate in our benefit plan which includes the following: 

  • 401(k) Plan
  • Annual bonus or incentive eligibility
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Paid time off

Henkels & McCoy West, LLC. is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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