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Estimating Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

In this role, you will lead estimating teams in pricing, bidding, and negotiating heavy civil, transit, and transportation construction projects ranging in value from $5 million to $1 billion+. This ...

AECOM is seeking a Program Estimating Manager to be based onsite in Sacramento, CA . JOB SUMMARY: Under the overall guidance of the Program Controls Deputy Director, the Program Estimating Manager ...

AECOM is seeking a Program Estimating Manager to be based onsite in Sacramento, CA . JOB SUMMARY: Under the overall guidance of the Program Controls Deputy Director, the Program Estimating Manager ...

The Estimating Quote Support Specialist contributes to the successful completion of bid and procurement activities while developing foundational estimating skills and knowledge of electrical ...

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

Showing results 41-60

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.

Estimating Manager / Lead Estimator

Lenax Construction Services

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Please Note:  This is a Los Angeles based position. LENAX does not pay for relocation or travel expenses for interviews.  This is not a remote position.  The Estimating Manager / Lead Estimator will report to LENAX's Corporate Offices in Los Angeles, CA.

About Lenax Construction Services, Inc.

Since its inception in 1993, Lenax Construction Services, Inc. (LENAX) has provided quality construction services and project controls to a diverse range of owners, engineering, design, and construction firms. LENAX services a broad range of markets, including aviation, transportation, industrial, correctional, educational, and marine. LENAX is a goal-oriented and customer-driven independent consulting business, aimed at adding value and strength to our clients' program teams by providing expertise in current pricing and economic trends while utilizing the most up to date means and methods in the construction and design industries.

POSITION OVERVIEW

LENAX is looking for an Estimating Manager / Lead Estimator with broad-based experience in all construction disciplines and diversification across multiple market sectors of all types of horizontal and vertical construction. Special emphasis for experience with Alternative Project Delivery Methods such as CM/GC or Progressive Design Build. This individual will provide a hands-on approach--bringing strong experience as a general cost estimator to produce detailed cost estimates, along with the ability to effectively manage multiple projects, ranging in size and scope, working under tight deadlines, leading and managing cost estimators whose unique talents and specializations make for a truly robust estimating team; compiling and performing quality control to ensure the integrity of the estimates; and then effectively negotiating and defending estimates to the client.

The Estimating Manager / Lead Estimator role provides an opportunity to fully utilize one's diverse skills and experience as part of an amazing team, and an organization that values and rewards individual contributions, teamwork, and dedication--offering exceptional benefits, including fully-paid Medical, Dental, Chiropractic/Acupuncture, 401-k with matching, educational assistance, professional development and more.  This a wonderful opportunity for an individual with superior cost estimating skills with proven results.  As a team member and key contributor, this position will allow one to exercise their talents and significantly impact LENAX's business and people in a multitude of ways.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

  • BA/BS degree in construction or related field; OR, any combination of education, certifications, licensure, experience, and training that would support the individual's ability to effectively perform the essential functions of the job.
  • Fifteen plus (15+) years' applicable work experience-ideally, in a variety of roles, and with progressively increasing responsibilities, and including senior and/or lead roles.
  • Must have diversified experience, with various types of projects, and in multiple markets-strong emphasis in rail, highway and aviation.
  • A minimum of five (5) years in a Consulting and/or Construction-Management environment required.
  • A minimum of five (10) years of estimating/cost-estimating management experience required. Strong experience in "conceptual estimating."
  • Must have experience providing cost estimating services for the agency/owner, including change order negotiations. A mixture of experience providing estimates for the public agency/owner, as well as the contractor, preferred.
  • Experience with CM/GC and/or Progressive Design-Build Projects is required.
  • Experience with successfully reaching an agreed price with the CMGC contractor is required. 
  • A track record of successful work experience in a similar role. Note:  This position is based on projects that are typically not "time and materials;" but rather, "lump-sum" projects with hard deadlines. The individual in this role will not only be expected to perform effectively-coordinating multiple projects, competing priorities, and tight deadlines; but, be able to work as part of a high-functioning team, in successfully meeting objectives-on-time, and meeting quality control stipulations.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office applications. Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, required.
  • Strong experience with commercial estimating software required. Proficiency with Sage/Timberline cost estimating software is required. Additional experience with HCSS and/or MC2 cost estimating software strongly preferred.
  • Must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills--written and verbal.
  • Must be a self-starter, and self-directed; able to work collaboratively and effectively with others-regardless of level or position and perform as part of a high-functioning team.

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STATUS / COMPENSATION - This is a full-time, regular, exempt employment opportunity reporting to LENAX's Corporate Offices in Los Angeles, CA.  The rate range is $90 - $120/hr. ($187,200.00 - $249,600.00/yr.), depending upon skills, education, experience, directly-applicable experience and aptitude associated with taking-on additional responsibilities. 

BENEFITS of JOINING THE LENAX TEAM

LENAX employees enjoy a competitive compensation and benefits package! Here are some of the basics:

  • Three (3) weeks (120 hours) Paid Time Off (PTO) per year.
  • Eight (8) Company-Paid Holidays
  • A wide selection of medical plans, with HMO, PPO, HSA/EPO options available; Dental, Vision, and Chiropractic/Acupuncture benefits
  • 401-k Retirement Savings Plan with employer matching
  • Educational Assistance Program and Professional Development support
  • Employee Referral Program

Lenax Construction Services is a Drug-free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer

No Staffing Agency Inquiries, please.