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Underground Utility Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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... underground utility construction practices · Strong analytical skills with high attention to detail · Effective communication and teamwork skills · Ability to manage multiple estimates and ...

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Underground Wet Utility Estimator

Austin, TX · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Senior Estimator - Commercial WET UTILITIES/ Wet Utilities - Commercial Underground ESTIMATOR Position Overview: - Wet Utilities Estimator The Utilities Estimator performs detailed estimates for wet ...

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... estimating storm, water and sewer utilities. * Knowledge of various online bidding platforms ... Company Description We are a well-established North Texas underground utility contractor located by ...

The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground ... Our best estimate of the salary range for this position is $21/hr.-$28/hr. Offers are based on a ...

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Underground Utility Estimator information

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$35.5K

$83K

$135K

How much do underground utility estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for underground utility estimator in the United States is $83,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,000.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an underground utility estimator do?

An Underground Utility Estimator is responsible for evaluating costs related to the installation, repair, or relocation of underground utilities such as water, sewer, gas, and telecommunications. They analyze project plans, assess job site conditions, and collaborate with engineers and contractors to ensure accurate budgeting. Their duties include material takeoffs, labor estimates, and cost forecasting to produce competitive bids. Accuracy and industry knowledge are crucial to securing contracts and maintaining profitability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an underground utility estimator?

To thrive as an Underground Utility Estimator, you need proficiency in reading blueprints, strong mathematical skills, knowledge of construction processes, and often a degree in engineering or construction management. Familiarity with estimating software (such as HCSS HeavyBid or Bluebeam), relevant safety certifications (e.g., OSHA), and GIS or CAD systems is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and strong organizational skills help you collaborate with project teams and manage complex proposals. These capabilities ensure accurate job costing, minimize project risks, and enable successful project bidding in a highly competitive industry.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of an underground utility estimator?

Underground Utility Estimators typically spend their days analyzing project plans, conducting site visits, and preparing accurate cost estimates for utility installations such as water, sewer, gas, and telecommunications lines. They gather material and labor cost data, review bid specifications, and coordinate with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to clarify project requirements. Estimators also attend pre-bid meetings, communicate with suppliers for pricing, and prepare detailed bid proposals. This role requires balancing time between office-based data analysis and occasional fieldwork, ensuring all aspects of a project are accounted for in estimations.

How much does an underground utility estimator make?

An underground utility estimator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled estimators with certifications and knowledge of estimating software can earn higher salaries in the construction and utility industries.
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Infographic showing various Underground Utility Estimator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,002 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Civil Sitework and Underground Utility Estimator

Budds Grading and Excavating, LLC

Rio Grande, NJ

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Civil Sitework Estimator to join our team, specializing in competitive bid preparation for excavation and underground utility projects. The Estimator will be responsible for accurately calculating the material, labor, and equipment costs required to successfully complete municipal and private civil sitework, with a core focus on water, sewer, and storm drainage systems. The ideal candidate possesses strong technical knowledge, proficiency in industry-specific estimating software, and the ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously under tight deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
  • Bid Preparation: Develop comprehensive and accurate cost estimates for various civil sitework projects, including grading, excavation, trenching, backfilling, and primarily the installation of water, sanitary sewer, and storm drain systems.
  • Scope Review: Thoroughly analyze construction documents, blueprints, specifications, and geotechnical reports to define the full scope of work, identify potential risks, and propose value engineering solutions.
  • Quantity Take-Offs: Perform detailed quantity take-offs using specialized estimating software (e.g., EarthWorks, Agtek, HCSS HeavyBid, B2W) for all components, including pipe, fittings, bedding material, trench depth, earthwork volumes, and site materials.
  • Cost Analysis: Determine unit and total costs for labor, equipment rental/ownership, materials, subcontracts, and general conditions. Maintain and update a comprehensive cost database.
  • Subcontractor/Supplier Management: Solicit and evaluate quotes from subcontractors and material suppliers, negotiating pricing and ensuring scope coverage.
  • Site Evaluation: Conduct pre-bid site visits to assess existing conditions, accessibility, laydown areas, soil types, and other factors that influence construction methods and costs.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, and Engineers to develop construction means and methods and optimize the project schedule and budget.
  • Documentation & Handover: Prepare professional, organized bid proposals and participate in the post-award project hand-off meeting to the operations team, ensuring the budget baseline is clearly communicated.
✅ Required Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in civil construction with a minimum of 3 years dedicated to estimating heavy civil projects, specifically focusing on underground utilities (water, sewer, storm drain).

  • Expert proficiency in performing digital quantity take-offs and utilizing industry-standard estimating software (mention specific software if applicable, e.g., EarthWorks, Agtek, HCSS HeavyBid, etc).
  • Deep understanding of excavation and trench safety standards (OSHA), soil mechanics, and common construction means and methods for utility installation.
  • Excellent mathematical, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to negotiate and present complex information clearly.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple simultaneous bids and adhere to strict deadlines.
Desired Attributes
  • Experience with estimating large-scale public works projects and familiarity with public bidding procedures.
  • Knowledge of local material suppliers, subcontractors, and prevailing wage requirements in the region.
  • Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel for complex financial modeling.