Takeoff Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SUMMARY

The Estimating / Takeoff Specialist is responsible for performing accurate and thorough quantity takeoffs for all private civil construction projects. This role serves as a critical link between project plans and field execution by producing precise linear footage calculations for utility work and cubic yard (CY) calculations for earthwork operations. The Specialist works directly within our estimating technology stack—PlanSwift and Insite Earthwork—to quantify scope and support competitive bid development.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Utility Takeoffs (Linear Footage)

• Perform detailed utility quantity takeoffs from civil construction drawings including storm drain, sanitary sewer, water main, dry utilities, and underground piping systems.
• Calculate accurate linear footages (LF) for all pipe runs, conduit, and linear utility installations using PlanSwift digital takeoff software.
• Quantify associated fittings, structures (manholes, inlets, vaults), and appurtenances per plan set.
• Interpret plan and profile sheets, utility drawings, and specifications to ensure complete scope capture.
• Cross-reference multiple drawing sheets to reconcile conflicts, changes, and addenda.
• Document all takeoff measurements with clear notes for estimator review and bid backup.

Earthwork Takeoffs (Cubic Yards)

• Perform mass grading and site earthwork takeoffs producing cut/fill volumes in cubic yards (CY) using Insite Earthwork software.
• Import and process survey data, digital terrain models (DTMs), and design surfaces to calculate net earthwork volumes.
• Analyze cut/fill balances, haul routes, and disposal/import quantities to support earthwork strategy and cost modeling.
• Prepare earthwork summary reports and export data for use in bid proposals and project schedules.
• Identify potential soil conditions, shrinkage/swell factors, and other variables that affect volume calculations.
• Validate earthwork quantities by reviewing grading plans and cross-sections against software output.

General Estimating & Coordination

• Review complete project plan sets and specifications for all assigned private projects prior to performing takeoffs.
• Maintain organized digital takeoff files within PlanSwift and Insite Earthwork for project records and future reference.
• Communicate scope clarifications and RFIs to the estimating team or project engineers as needed.
• Collaborate with estimators to ensure takeoff quantities are accurately transferred into bid proposals.
• Track plan revisions and addenda, updating takeoffs promptly to reflect changes.
• Assist with building cost databases and unit-price benchmarking tied to takeoff data.
• Support post-bid reviews and project buyout by providing takeoff backup and documentation.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Minimum 2 years of experience performing construction quantity takeoffs in civil, site work, or heavy construction.
• Demonstrated proficiency with PlanSwift digital takeoff software.
• Hands-on experience with Insite Earthwork software for cut/fill analysis and CY volume calculations.
• Ability to read, interpret, and extract data from civil engineering plan sets, grading plans, utility drawings, and project specifications.
• Strong understanding of civil construction methods including underground utilities, grading, paving, and site development.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• High attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, verifiable quantities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering Technology, Construction Management, or related field.
• Experience working for a civil site contractor or heavy/highway contractor in an estimating or field capacity.
• Familiarity with AutoCAD Civil 3D surface files and DTM exports used in earthwork analysis.
• Knowledge of standard earthwork factors (swell, shrink, compaction rates) and their application in volume calculations.
• Experience with private developer projects including residential, commercial, and mixed-use site development.

SOFTWARE & TECHNOLOGY

• PlanSwift: Primary takeoff platform for all utility linear footage (LF) quantity calculations.
• Insite Earthwork: Earthwork cut/fill modeling and cubic yard (CY) volume analysis.
• Microsoft Excel: Quantity summaries, bid inputs, and data tracking.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This position is primarily office-based with occasional site visits to support project verification or field coordination.
• Must be able to work at a computer for extended periods reviewing large-format drawings and detailed plan sets.
• Ability to manage multiple takeoff assignments simultaneously and meet bid deadline schedules.
• Occasional overtime may be required during peak bid periods.