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Estimating Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Program Estimating Manager

Sacramento, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manage the cost estimating group in the development of all capital cost estimates for CAHSRA from planning conceptual level to final design and construction cost estimates. * Facilitate the ...

Program Estimating Manager

Sacramento, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manage the cost estimating group in the development of all capital cost estimates for CAHSRA from planning conceptual level to final design and construction cost estimates. * Facilitate the ...

Lead Estimator/Estimating Manager

Alameda, CA · On-site

$135K - $210K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

Alameda-- Headquarters Compensation: $135,000 - $210,000 / year Description Stacy Witbeck seeks a talented Estimating Manager as a key part of our succession planning. In addition to regional and ...

Manager, Estimating

Livermore, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Estimating Manager will play a critical role of supporting and advancing Tennyson's culture as described in our playbook, with a key focus on accountability, performance and customer service. The ...

Cost Estimating Manager III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity for a Cost Estimating Manager to join our Cost Engineering team, located in our Rancho Bernardo facility. This is a working manager role. This position is responsible ...

Showing results 21-40

Estimating Manager information

See California salary details

$27.1K

$80.6K

$135.7K

How much do estimating manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for estimating manager in California is $80,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an estimating manager do?

An Estimating Manager oversees the process of calculating the costs and resources needed for construction or manufacturing projects. They lead a team of estimators, review project specifications, analyze blueprints, and collaborate with project managers and clients to develop accurate bids and proposals. Their goal is to ensure that all estimates are competitive, thorough, and aligned with company objectives. Estimating Managers also help identify potential risks and cost-saving opportunities during the pre-construction phase.

What are some common challenges estimating managers face when coordinating with other departments during project bids?

Estimating Managers frequently encounter challenges such as aligning timelines and requirements with engineering, procurement, and project management teams. Miscommunication or incomplete information from other departments can lead to delays or inaccuracies in cost estimates. Proactively facilitating regular meetings and using collaborative project management tools can help streamline information flow and ensure all stakeholders are on the same page. Building strong relationships across teams is key to overcoming these challenges and delivering accurate, competitive bids.

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

To thrive as an Estimating Manager, you need strong analytical skills, deep knowledge of construction or manufacturing processes, and a relevant degree such as in engineering, construction management, or a related field. Proficiency in estimating software like Bluebeam, Sage Estimating, or CostX, as well as familiarity with project management systems, is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, negotiation skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with stakeholders make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure accurate cost projections, effective project planning, and the building of trust with clients and project teams.

What is the difference between Estimating Manager vs Estimator?

AspectEstimating ManagerEstimator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or related field; often has industry certificationsUsually holds a diploma or associate degree; certifications like CPC or AACE are common but not mandatory
Work EnvironmentLeads estimating teams, reviews bids, and manages estimating processes in construction or engineering firmsPerforms detailed cost calculations and prepares estimates for projects
Industry UsageUsed in construction, engineering, and large-scale project firmsCommonly found in similar industries, focusing on cost estimation tasks

The Estimating Manager oversees the estimating team and manages bid processes, while the Estimator focuses on preparing detailed project cost estimates. Both roles require strong analytical skills, but the manager has additional leadership and strategic responsibilities.

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

The most popular types of Estimating jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Estimating Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Estimating Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Estimating Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,607 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

$135K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Come grow with us...
At Murray Company, how we operate is defined by shared values that are 100 years in the making -Safety, Quality, Honesty, Hard Work and Pride of Ownership. These values have led to our company consistently being in the top 15% on ENRs Best Specialty Contractor's list. Bring your enthusiasm and unique perspective to Murray Company where you will have the opportunity to grow with us professionally, personally, and financially. Join a team that cares about helping you thrive and succeed. You'll work alongside talented colleagues while establishing lifelong friendships and making a difference in our company and the specialty contracting community. As a part of Murray Company, you'll build long-term wealth by enjoying employee-ownership, great compensation, health & wellness benefits, and matched 401(k) retirement plan.
Position Summary
The Estimating Manager is responsible for supervising the estimating staff, managing project estimate deliverables, coordinating with subcontractors, and ensuring the accuracy and completeness of all proposals related to. This individual will play a key role in training and mentoring a team of estimators, supporting business development initiatives, and collaborating with project teams to validate and price changes effectively. The ideal candidate will have deep project scope specializing in at least one of the following trades: process piping, HVAC, sheet metal, and/or plumbing.
Location: San Leandro, Livermore or Sacramento, CA
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and supervise the estimating team, including assigning workloads, setting priorities, and managing performance to ensure high-quality deliverables.
  • Regularly contact the Pre-Construction Departments of our targeted community of General Contractors to identify opportunities.
  • Evaluate opportunities to ensure we pursue projects with the best opportunity for success; are consistent with our business model; exploit our competitive advantages and can contribute margins consistent with the business plan.
  • Review all plans, P&ID's, specifications, and contracts prior to preparing the estimate to ensure any impacts on the work are identified.
  • Learn and operate a computer-based take-off and estimating system that can provide reproducible results.
  • Assist in selling the project, including but not limited to developing a scope of supply; presentations if required; entertaining; negotiating and closing.
  • Assist with budget preparation for initial project set-up and any priced change order work for the Project Managers.
  • Participate in the kickoff meeting; presenting the scope of work, work plan, budget, unusual requirements and any critical limitations on the scope of our work.
  • Monitor progress of the work for purposes of comparing actual production rates with bid rates.
  • Assist in preparation of project forecasts, claims and schedules; if required.
  • Assist in productivity tracking of labor units.
  • Lead weekly staff meetings for the purposes of identifying any scope deviations, monitoring production and forecasting future work.
  • Assist with developing alternate plans to recover projects where actual performance is not meeting budgeted plan.

Qualifications
Required
  • 5-10+ years of hands-on estimating team leadership and people management experience.
  • 10+ years of experience in cradle-to-grave estimating mechanical systems.
  • Experience in business development with new and existing clients and engaging in cross-selling opportunities.
  • Familiarity with various Estimating software (Autobid, Trimble, QuickPen, FastPIPE, etc.)
  • Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office products, particularly Excel.

Preferred
  • Field/Craft experience.
  • Expertise in estimating and close of large-scale high-purity / process piping mechanical projects, ideally in the semiconductor or biopharmaceutical sectors.
  • Understanding of piping and installation of equipment.
  • Bachelor's degree in construction management or mechanical engineering, civil engineering or related field.

Physical Requirements
  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk.
  • Must be able to lift to 15 pounds at times.
  • Must have visual acuity to see and interpret detailed construction drawings on computer screens and on paper.
  • Must be able to traverse uneven surfaces on project sites and climb stairs to access project site temporary offices.

Compensation
$135,000.00 - $190,000.00 per year
Total Rewards
Murray Company offers a generous total rewards package to include no less than a 15% Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) contribution annually on top of a discretionary cash bonus program. Additional benefits include a 3% 401(k) match, 100% company-paid medical coverage for employee (up to 2/3 for family), company provided life insurance, optional vision and dental insurance, and more.
Murray Company 3rd Party Recruiter Engagements
Murray Company does not accept unsolicited resumes or candidate profiles from third-party recruiting agencies or individual recruiters in response to job postings. Resumes submitted to any employee of Murray Company without a signed agreement by an officer of the company (or his or her delegate) AND without the express written agreement by the Talent Acquisition or Human Resources function to engage in a search on behalf of the company will become property of Murray Company. Verbal or written commitments from any other member of Murray Company will not be considered binding terms. Murray Company will not pay a fee to any third-party recruiting firms or individual recruiters that have not coordinated their recruiting activity through the Talent Acquisition or Human Resources function.