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Estimating Manager Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

Previous leadership experience of teams (performance management, training, coaching) * Proficient with ERP systems, willingness to help tactically as needed to support estimating workload * Strong ...

Russ Darrow Waukesha Body Shop is seeking a detail-driven Body Shop Estimator to manage repair estimates and coordinate collision repairs from initial assessment through completion. This role is ...

Estimating * Estimating projects for all three trades (Plumbing, Pipefitting, and Sheetmetal) * Teaching and mentoring Project Managers/Assistant Project Managers in change order estimating

... Estimating track, and achieved after completion of BELFOR new hire training tasks. This position will be responsible for creating and managing estimates and job in the residential, commercial, and ...

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Estimating Manager information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$27.1K

$80.5K

$135.5K

How much do estimating manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for estimating manager in Milwaukee, WI is $80,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $114,800.00 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 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 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 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 Milwaukee, WI?

The most popular types of Estimating jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:

What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Estimating Manager jobs?

Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Estimating Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Estimating Manager job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,471 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Estimating Manager

Waukesha, WI • On-site

Five Star Infrastructure Services, dBA InterCon Construction

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
Five Star Infrastructure Services is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Estimating Manager to lead our estimating team and oversee the preparation of accurate, competitive, and profitable project estimates. This position plays a critical role in supporting the company's growth by managing the estimating process for underground utility construction projects, including electric, gas, telecommunications, fiber optic, water, and other infrastructure work.
The Estimating Manager will collaborate with Operations, Business Development, Project Management, Procurement, and Executive Leadership to develop winning proposals while ensuring estimates align with company objectives, customer requirements, and project profitability goals.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of estimators and estimating support staff.
  • Oversee the preparation of accurate and competitive estimates for underground utility construction projects.
  • Review project plans, specifications, bid documents, contracts, and customer requirements.
  • Develop comprehensive cost estimates including labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, traffic control, restoration, and overhead costs.
  • Analyze project risks and incorporate appropriate contingencies into estimates.
  • Establish estimating standards, processes, and best practices across the organization.
  • Coordinate with Operations to ensure estimates accurately reflect construction methods and production capabilities.
  • Work closely with Business Leaders and Project Managers during proposal preparation and customer presentations.
  • Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
  • Review project scopes to identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving alternatives.
  • Participate in bid strategy meetings and recommend pricing strategies.
  • Prepare detailed bid summaries and executive reviews prior to proposal submission.
  • Ensure all bids comply with customer specifications and contractual requirements.
  • Maintain estimating databases, production rates, historical cost information, and labor productivity metrics.
  • Monitor market conditions affecting labor, equipment, fuel, and material pricing.
  • Assist with contract negotiations and project turnover meetings after award.
  • Analyze awarded versus estimated project costs to improve future estimating accuracy.
  • Develop departmental KPIs and reporting metrics.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives throughout the estimating department.
  • Foster strong working relationships with customers, vendors, subcontractors, and internal departments.
  • Promote and enforce Five Star Infrastructure Services' commitment to safety, quality, and ethical business practices.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.
  • Minimum 7-10 years of estimating experience in utility or heavy civil construction.
  • Minimum 3-5 years of leadership or supervisory experience.
  • Strong knowledge of:
  • Underground electric distribution
  • Natural gas distribution
  • Fiber optic construction
  • Telecommunications infrastructure
  • Water and sewer utilities
  • Experience estimating both public and private utility construction projects.
  • Strong understanding of construction methods, productivity rates, scheduling, and project execution.
  • Experience with unit price, lump sum, negotiated, and design-build estimating.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
  • Experience with estimating software such as HeavyBid, B2W Estimate, HCSS HeavyBid, InEight Estimate, or similar platforms.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office.
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously while meeting strict deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) designation.
  • Experience working with union and non-union labor environments.
  • Knowledge of utility owner specifications and standards.
  • Experience with DOT, municipal, and investor-owned utility projects.
  • Familiarity with GIS, utility mapping, and project management software.

InterCon Construction is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on account of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, mental or physical disability, veteran status, or any other category protected by law.
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer