top of page

Light Civil/Landscape Estimator (Commercial Construction)

Job Overview


The Light Civil/ Landscape Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates for commercial site development and landscape projects.

This role requires in-depth knowledge of site construction means and methods, strong analytical skills, and the ability to interpret civil/ landscape drawings, specifications, and geotechnical reports.


The estimator will collaborate closely with project managers, superintendents, subcontractors, and vendors throughout the preconstruction process to ensure complete scope coverage, submittal process and profitable bids.


Job type: full-time employment


Key Responsibilities


Estimating and Preconstruction

  • Prepare detailed cost estimates for commercial light civil/ landscape site construction projects from conceptual through final bid stages. Participate in Prebid meetings to develop desirable scopes.

  • Perform comprehensive quantity takeoffs from civil/ landscape plans, details, and specifications

  • Analyze project documents including civil/ Landscape drawings, geotechnical reports, addenda, and owner requirements

  • Develop estimates based on labor, materials, equipment, subcontractor pricing, production rates, and site conditions

  • Identify scope gaps, discrepancies, conflicts, and constructability concerns during plan review

  • Develop bid clarifications, exclusions, alternates, and value engineering options

  • Support negotiation and buyout efforts after award

Drainage and Utilities

  • Storm drainage systems including pipe, structures, inlets, manholes, and detention systems

  • Subgrade preparation, bedding, backfill, and compaction requirements

  • Coordination with existing utilities and site constraints

Earthwork/Cut & Fill

  • Mass grading, fine grading, and building pad preparation

  • Cut and fill analysis, balancing, export/import quantities

  • Understanding of soils, compaction requirements, and moisture conditioning

  • Temporary erosion and sediment control measures

Site Paving

  • Concrete paving systems for commercial applications

  • Subgrade, base course, and paving section assemblies

  • Parking lots, drive lanes, sidewalks, curbs, and ADA requirements

Hardscape/Pavers

  • Concrete and unit paver systems

  • Base preparation, edge restraints, and jointing systems

  • Integration with drainage and landscape features

Landscaping, Irrigation, & Site Lighting

  • Landscape installation including planting, soils, and mulch

  • Irrigation systems: mains, laterals, valves, controllers, and testing

  • Site lighting systems including conduit, foundations, fixtures, and controls

  • Coordination between landscape, irrigation, electrical, and civil scopes

Subcontractor & Vendor Coordination

  • Solicit pricing from qualified subcontractors and suppliers

  • Evaluate and level bids to ensure scope completeness and accuracy

  • Identify missing scope items or qualifications in subcontractor proposals

  • Build relationships with trade partners and suppliers

  • Maintain and update subcontractor and vendor databases

Project Handoff & Support

  • Participate in preconstruction and turnover meetings

  • Assist with project submittals based off of specifications provided with bid proposal

  • Assist project management with budget validation and cost breakdowns

  • Provide estimating support during construction as needed (change orders, value engineering, etc.)

  • Maintain historical cost data for future estimating efforts


Required Qualifications

  • 5+ years experience estimating or field experience commercial light civil, Commercial landscaping, or site construction projects

  • Strong understanding of drainage, paving, earthwork, hardscape, and landscape infrastructure

  • Ability to read, interpret, and analyze civil/ landscape/site plans and specifications

  • Proficiency with estimating and takeoff software such as Aspire, Bluebeam, PlanSwift, Excel, or similar

  • Strong math, analytical, and organizational skills

  • Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

  • Detail-oriented with a strong sense of ownership and accountability


Preferred Qualifications

  • Field experience in site, civil and landscape construction

  • Experience working on projects for developers, general contractors, or municipalities

  • Familiarity with local codes, soils, and permitting requirements

  • Experience with value engineering and cost optimization


Work Environment

  • Office-based role with occasional site visits

  • Fast-paced, deadline-driven preconstruction environment

  • Collaborative team setting with direct impact on project success


Benefits

  • 401(k) matching

  • Health insurance

  • Life insurance

  • Paid time off

bottom of page