Project Manager / Estimator – Heavy Civil Construction
Job Description:
Project Manager / Estimator – Heavy Civil Construction
Location: Elk River, Minnesota (Onsite)
Compensation: $120,000 – $150,000 base salary + full benefits
Employment Type: Full-Time
Travel Requirement: No travel required
Industry: Heavy Civil Construction | Earthwork | Underground Utilities | Demolition
Position Overview
HireNow Staffing is representing a well-established heavy civil contractor seeking an experienced Project Manager / Estimator to lead both the preconstruction and execution phases of civil construction projects. This role requires a hands-on professional who understands heavy civil construction at both the estimating and operational level.
The selected individual will be responsible for preparing competitive and accurate bids while maintaining full ownership of awarded projects through execution and closeout. This includes cost control, subcontractor coordination, client communication, and ensuring work is delivered according to scope, schedule, and budget.
This position is designed for someone who thrives in a field-driven environment and has direct experience managing and pricing earthwork, underground utilities, and related civil construction scopes.
Core Responsibilities
Estimating & Preconstruction Leadership
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Analyze project drawings, specifications, and bid documents to develop accurate and competitive cost estimates.
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Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for earthwork, underground utilities, demolition, and site preparation scopes.
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Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing to support estimate development.
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Prepare complete bid packages, including cost breakdowns, schedules, and scope clarifications.
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Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and internal bid reviews.
Project Management & Execution
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Manage projects from award through final completion, ensuring all contractual and operational requirements are met.
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Develop project schedules, track progress, and maintain alignment with construction timelines.
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Monitor project costs, budgets, and financial performance throughout execution.
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Coordinate field crews, subcontractors, equipment, and material deliveries.
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Identify and resolve project challenges related to scope, scheduling, and site conditions.
Client & Stakeholder Coordination
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Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, municipalities, subcontractors, and vendors.
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Maintain clear communication with stakeholders regarding project status, changes, and expectations.
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Support contract administration, including change orders, documentation, and project reporting.
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Ensure project deliverables meet quality standards and contractual requirements.
Operational & Financial Oversight
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Track project financial performance, including cost forecasting and variance analysis.
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Support invoicing, cost tracking, and financial documentation.
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Assist leadership with project planning, scheduling priorities, and workload coordination.
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Maintain accurate project records and documentation.
Required Qualifications (Non-Negotiable)
Candidates must meet all of the following requirements:
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Minimum of 5 years of combined heavy civil project management and estimating experience.
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Direct hands-on experience with earthwork, excavation, demolition, and underground utilities.
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Demonstrated ability to prepare complete project estimates and manage projects through completion.
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Experience managing public sector and/or municipal infrastructure projects.
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Ability to interpret civil construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
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Strong understanding of civil construction methods, materials, and equipment.
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Excellent organizational, communication, and project coordination skills.
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Stable work history demonstrating long-term employment and consistent project involvement.
Preferred Qualifications (Strongly Emphasized)
Standout candidates will possess:
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Experience pricing and managing municipal, DOT, or public infrastructure projects.
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Background working for heavy civil contractors specializing in excavation, utilities, or site development.
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Strong proficiency in estimating software and project management systems.
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Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related technical degree.
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Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining cost and schedule control.
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Strong client-facing skills with the ability to build and maintain professional relationships.
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Ability to independently manage both estimating and project execution responsibilities.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate is a heavy civil construction professional who understands both estimating and project execution. They are capable of developing accurate bids, winning work, and managing projects through successful completion.
They have hands-on experience with earthwork and underground utilities, understand public sector construction requirements, and are comfortable operating independently while maintaining accountability for project outcomes.
This individual demonstrates strong technical judgment, financial awareness, and operational ownership.
Deal Breakers (Candidates Will Not Be Considered If)
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No heavy civil construction experience.
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Experience limited to commercial building construction without earthwork or utilities exposure.
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No estimating experience or inability to prepare project bids.
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Unstable employment history or frequent short-term roles.
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Requires travel outside the local Elk River area.
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No direct involvement in managing heavy civil construction projects.
Compensation & Benefits
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Base salary: $120,000 – $150,000 (depending on experience)
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Health insurance coverage
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Dental and vision insurance
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401(k) retirement plan
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Paid time off and holidays