Heavy Civil Estimator / Senior Estimator

Location: Tucson, AZ & Albuquerque, NM

About the Opportunity

Meridian Engineering is seeking an experienced Heavy Civil Estimator or Senior Estimator to join our growing Preconstruction team. This is first and foremost an estimating position responsible for developing accurate, competitive estimates for heavy civil construction projects. Unlike many larger contractors where estimators spend their careers focused solely on producing bids, Meridian provides the opportunity to work directly with executive leadership, collaborate closely with operations, influence pursuit strategy, strengthen relationships within your market, and make a visible impact on the future of the company.

Whether you are an experienced Estimator looking for your next opportunity or a seasoned Senior Estimator seeking greater influence and ownership, Meridian offers an environment where your experience, initiative, and leadership can grow alongside the business.

Successful Team Members in This Role Will…

• Prepare accurate, competitive estimates that position Meridian to win the right work.
• Partner closely with Operations throughout the pursuit process.
• Build lasting relationships within their assigned market.
• Participate in preconstruction planning and project turnover.
• Continuously improve estimating accuracy through lessons learned.
• Take ownership of opportunities from pursuit through successful handoff.
• Contribute ideas that strengthen Meridian’s growth and long-term success.

A Day in the Life

Estimating & Preconstruction (70%)

• Review plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop complete project estimates.
• Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate subcontractor and supplier pricing.
• Develop bid strategies, pricing recommendations, and bid narratives.
• Participate in site visits, pre-bid meetings, and estimate reviews.
• Coordinate closely with Operations during project pursuits.
• Participate in turnover meetings and communicate key estimating assumptions.
• Capture lessons learned to improve future estimates.

Market Relationships & Industry Engagement (20%)

• Develop relationships with owners, engineers, municipalities, mining clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
• Participate in industry associations, networking events, and community activities.
• Monitor upcoming work opportunities within assigned markets.
• Strengthen Meridian’s reputation through professionalism, responsiveness, and technical expertise.

Operational Partnership (10%)

• Partner with Project Management and Field Operations to improve constructability and project planning.
• Participate in post-project reviews and continuous improvement efforts.
• Provide practical insight that improves future pursuits and operational success.

Measurements of Success

• Accurate, competitive estimates delivered on time.
• Successful project pursuits and smooth project handoffs.
• Strong collaboration with Operations and executive leadership.
• Meaningful relationships within assigned markets.
• Continuous improvement in estimating quality and consistency.
• Growing contribution to Meridian’s long-term success.

Qualifications

Required

• 5+ years of heavy civil estimating experience (Senior level based on experience and demonstrated capability).
• Strong knowledge of earthwork, underground utilities, grading, drainage, structural concrete, paving, and site development.
• Experience with HCSS HeavyBid or comparable estimating software.
• Strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple pursuits while meeting deadlines.

Preferred

• Construction industry relationships within Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, or surrounding markets.
• Experience with HCSS Heavybid.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Desire to grow beyond estimating and become a trusted partner in Meridian’s continued growth.

Growth Opportunity

At Meridian, estimators are more than technical professionals—they are trusted partners in helping grow the business. As experience, leadership, and market knowledge develop, team members have opportunities to pursue larger and more complex projects, mentor others, represent Meridian within their markets, and expand their influence throughout the organization.