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Estimating Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and ...

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and ...

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and ...

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and ...

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and ...

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and ...

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and ...

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and ...

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and ...

The Director of Estimating is responsible for leading all estimating and preconstruction functions across transmission, distribution, substation, gas infrastructure, renewable interconnection, and ...

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Estimating Director information

What does an estimating director do?

An Estimating Director oversees the cost estimation process for construction or manufacturing projects, ensuring accurate and competitive bids. They lead teams of estimators, review project specifications, assess labor, material, and time requirements, and develop budgets and proposals. The role also involves collaborating with project managers, clients, and vendors to ensure estimates align with project goals and company profitability. Estimating Directors play a strategic role in securing new business and managing risk for their organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an estimating director?

To thrive as an Estimating Director, you need deep expertise in cost estimation, project management, and a relevant degree in construction, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with estimation software such as Sage Estimating, ProEst, or Bluebeam, and certifications like Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) are typically required. Strong leadership, negotiation abilities, and analytical thinking set top candidates apart. These skills are crucial for delivering accurate bids, leading estimation teams effectively, and ensuring company profitability and client satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by an estimating director when leading a team on large-scale projects?

As an Estimating Director overseeing large-scale projects, you may encounter challenges such as coordinating inputs from multiple departments, ensuring accuracy under tight deadlines, and adapting to changing project scopes. Balancing the need for detailed, reliable estimates with the pressure to deliver results quickly can be demanding. Effective communication and strong leadership skills are essential for guiding your team, resolving discrepancies, and maintaining consistency in estimating methods across various projects.

What is the difference between Estimating Director vs Estimator?

AspectEstimating DirectorEstimator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or related field; extensive industry experienceUsually holds a diploma or degree in construction, engineering, or related field; less experience required
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects, manages teams, and develops estimating strategiesFocuses on preparing detailed cost estimates for specific projects
Industry UsageCommonly found in large construction firms and project management companiesUsed across various construction and engineering firms for project-specific estimates

The Estimating Director leads the overall estimating department, setting strategies and overseeing large projects, while the Estimator focuses on preparing detailed cost estimates for individual projects. Both roles require relevant industry credentials, but the Director's role is more strategic and managerial.

Is estimating a lucrative career?

Estimating is a well-paying career, especially in industries like construction, manufacturing, and engineering, where accurate cost predictions are critical. Experienced estimators with certifications and strong analytical skills can earn high salaries, and the profession often offers opportunities for advancement and specialization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Estimating jobs in California?

The most popular types of Estimating jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Estimating Director jobs in California?

For Estimating Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Estimating Director jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Estimating Director jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Estimating Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Estimating Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Estimating Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

$320K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Overview

Are you an influential leader with strong negotiation skills? As the Northwest Director of Estimating, you will lead and develop a high-performing estimating team responsible for pursuing and securing some of the region's most complex and high-profile infrastructure projects, driving bid strategy, subcontractor engagement, and commercial competitiveness. This is a unique opportunity to lead estimating efforts for FlatironDragados' largest division, supporting significant growth while delivering some of the Northwest's most complex and transformative infrastructure projects.

Bring your diverse ideas to build stronger, more resilient communities.

Apply now and transform your career with us.

What you will be doing
  • Works with operational and business development leaders to determine which pursuits to engage in across our Northwest Division
  • Provides technical and industry knowledge towards risk, contract management, owner relationships and vendor or subcontractor partnerships.
  • Organizes and supervises estimating teams to prepare bids, select vendors or subcontractors and determine cost effectiveness of project to bid.
  • Delegates review of project and appropriate regulations required to construct the project to meet disadvantages business requirements and minority participation agreements.
  • Reviews total estimate of all projects to ensure accuracy and completeness prior to formal submission.
  • Participates in pre-bid meetings, bid strategy, bid reviews and representation meetings as required.
  • Upon project completion, participates in debriefing with estimating, engineering and production teams to discuss positive and negative aspects of the project related to overall financial performance.
  • Leads Joint Venture (JV) meetings and hand-off meetings between pursuit phase and active project management team to ensure accurate and complete knowledge transfer between the phases.
  • Manages the development and submission of BRC documentation.
What we are looking for
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field required.
  • 15+ years estimating & cost control related experience required.
  • Construction, design, finance and management experience required.
  • Estimating experience on mega jobs required. 
  • Ideally you will have a diverse mix of project experience across roads, bridges, tunnels, aviation, water/water treatment and/or marine. 
  • Experience across alternative and collaborative delivery contract models, including DB, PBD, CMAR and CMGC is strong preferred. 
  • Expert knowledge of HCSS Heavy Bid Estimating Software
  • Understands best value approach to winning new work.
  • Expert knowledge of various construction engineering and project delivery methods.
  • Strong negotiation and influencing skills required.
Why work for us

Some of the benefits you may be eligible for as an employee are:

  • Comprehensive compensation package and paid time off program
  • Industry leading 401(k)/RRSP
  • Medical/Extended Health Care, Dental, Vision and/or Provincial Medical
  • Wellness benefits & Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

We are an EEO/ADA/Veterans employer.

Salary MinUSD $260,000.00/Yr.Salary MaxUSD $320,000.00/Yr.Vehicle ProgramPersonal Vehicle Allowance Tier III: $1,150 USD/monthEmployment Type: OTHER