Compare your current skills to what this opportunity needs—we'll show you what you already have and what could strengthen your application.
Job Description
Who We Are Since founded in 2006, Ironwood Commercial Builder, Inc. has been a highly respected general contractor and specialty contractor in the industry. We are committed to continuing education and ensuring our teams are not only passionate about what they do but are also highly trained to get the job done. Ironwood Commercial Builders, Inc. is proud to be a Woman-Owned Small Business. We are committed to employing a diverse workforce that brings a unique perspective to the job site to deliver quality projects across federal, public, and private markets. Unlike most general contractors, Ironwood Commercial Builders, Inc. self-performs several facets of construction, including but not limited to light gauge metal framing and drywall, weather barrier, fireproofing, lath and plaster, as well as custom interior Venetian and historical plaster. Position Summary The Public Works Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and compliant cost estimates for publicly funded construction projects, including federal, state, county, and municipal contracts. This role requires strong knowledge of public bidding procedures, prevailing wage requirements, and government contracting regulations, and works closely with project executives, business development, subcontractors, and suppliers to develop winning bids for public sector work. Key Responsibilities Review bid documents, plans, specifications, and contract requirements for publicly bid projects to develop comprehensive quantity takeoffs and cost estimates. Monitor public bid postings (DBE/MBE/WBE portals, PlanetBid, BidNet, eBidboard, agency websites) to identify and qualify upcoming opportunities. Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier quotes, ensuring compliance with
DBE/MBE/WBE/SBE
participation goals and good faith effort documentation. Prepare detailed cost breakdowns including labor (prevailing wage/certified payroll rates), material, equipment, subcontractor, bonding, insurance, general conditions, overhead, and contingency. Calculate and apply prevailing wage rates (Davis-Bacon, state wage determinations) accurately to labor estimates. Prepare and assemble complete bid packages, including bid bonds, forms, certifications, addenda acknowledgments, and required compliance documentation. Ensure all bids meet agency requirements for responsiveness and responsibility, including licensing, certifications, and pre-qualification submittals. Attend mandatory pre-bid conferences, site walks, and submit/respond to requests for information (RFIs) during the bid period. Track addenda, plan revisions, and bid deadlines to ensure timely and compliant submissions. Coordinate with legal/compliance teams on bid protests, contract terms, and public contracting regulations as needed. Maintain and grow relationships with certified
DBE/MBE/WBE
subcontractors and suppliers. Analyze historical public bid results and market data to refine pricing strategy and improve win rates. Support project handoff to operations team post-award, ensuring estimate assumptions and compliance commitments are clearly communicated.
Qualifications Required:
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (or equivalent industry experience). 3-7+ years of estimating experience with a general contractor, focused on publicly funded/government projects. Working knowledge of prevailing wage laws (Davis-Bacon Act, state labor code requirements) and certified payroll requirements. Familiarity with public bidding processes, procurement codes, and contract types (lump sum, unit price, design-build, CMAR/CM-at-Risk). Experience with
DBE/MBE/WBE/SBE
compliance and outreach documentation. Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., Sage Estimating, ProEst, Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Procore, or similar). Strong understanding of civil, vertical, and/or infrastructure construction methods depending on company focus. Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings. Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to regulatory detail and deadlines. Must pass E-Verify Successful completion of a background check
Preferred:
Experience estimating projects for school districts, municipalities, state agencies, or federal entities (Caltrans, Army Corps of Engineers, etc.). Knowledge of public works licensing requirements (e.g., DIR registration, contractor licensing boards). Familiarity with bid bond, payment bond, and performance bond requirements. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced formulas) and Bluebeam Revu. Core Competencies High attention to detail and regulatory compliance. Strong mathematical and analytical aptitude. Ability to manage multiple bids and strict, non-negotiable submission deadlines. Sound judgment in risk assessment and competitive pricing strategy. Clear, professional communication with public agency representatives and subcontractors. Comfort navigating bureaucratic processes and documentation-heavy workflows. Work Environment Primarily office-based with occasional travel for mandatory pre-bid conferences and site visits. Deadline-driven environment with firm, non-extendable public bid submission dates. Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary based on experience Performance bonus eligibility Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company match Paid time off and holidays Vehicle allowance/mileage reimbursement (if applicable) Ironwood Commercial Builders Inc. is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, age, disability, national origin, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors. Ironwood Commercial Builders Inc. is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in the employment process, including the job application and interview process. Applicants can request reasonable accommodation by contacting the Ironwood Human Resources Department by sending a message through Indeed.
Pay:
$140,000.00 - $160,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) 4% Match Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): What's the largest public works bid you've prepared solo, and what was the project type? What's your experience with public bid procedures — sealed bids, bid bonds, performance/payment bonds, pre-qualification requirements? Have you worked on Caltrans, county, municipal, or federal (FAR-based) projects? What were the differences in how you approached the estimate? What estimating software have you used (HCSS, Sage/Timberline, B2W, ConEst, On-Screen Takeoff, etc.) and which do you prefer for public works specifically?
Experience:
public works estimating: 3 years (Required)
Language:
English (Preferred) Shift availability: Day Shift (Required) Ability to
