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Estimating 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 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 ...

Estimating Manager - Ship Repair & Marine Industry Direct Hire | Superior Skilled Trades 📍 Honolulu, HI Must be willing to relocate Relocation Assistance Provided 💰 up to $150,000/year DOE ...

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

Summary The Estimating Manager is responsible for leading the estimating team and overseeing the preparation and delivery of accurate and competitive project estimates for mechanical construction ...

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

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

Estimating Manager - Ship Repair & Marine Industry Direct Hire | Superior Skilled Trades 📍 Honolulu, HI Must be willing to relocate Relocation Assistance Provided 💰 up to $150,000/year DOE ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Estimating information

See California salary details

$27.1K

$80.6K

$135.7K

How much do estimating jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for estimating 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in estimating, and why are they important?

To thrive in Estimating, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in mathematics or engineering, often supported by relevant industry experience or a degree. Proficiency with estimation software such as Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or Microsoft Excel, and sometimes certifications like the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), is typically required. Effective communication, organization, and negotiation abilities are standout soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and managing project timelines. These combined skills ensure accurate cost projections, minimize financial risk, and contribute to successful project execution.

What does an estimator do?

An estimator is responsible for analyzing project requirements and calculating the expected costs, materials, labor, and time needed to complete a job. Estimators work in various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and engineering, to prepare accurate bids and budgets for projects. Their role involves reviewing blueprints, collaborating with suppliers and subcontractors, and ensuring that estimates are thorough and competitive. Accurate estimating is crucial for helping companies win contracts and manage project profitability.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in estimating roles, and how can they be managed?

One of the most common challenges in estimating is managing incomplete or ambiguous project information, which can make it difficult to produce accurate cost projections. Estimators often need to work closely with project managers, engineers, and clients to clarify requirements and fill in information gaps. Additionally, tight deadlines and frequent revisions are typical, so strong organizational and communication skills are essential. Staying updated on market rates for materials and labor, as well as using specialized estimating software, can help mitigate risks and improve accuracy.
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 jobs? Cities in California with the most Estimating job openings:
Infographic showing various Estimating job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,607 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Director, Estimating

MasTec Inc

Pomona, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 80 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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