Bridge​/Structures Estimator & Project Manager

Bridge/Structures Estimator & Project Manager at S.M. Hentges & Sons Inc Position Summary

The Bridge/Structures Estimator & Project Manager is a dual‑role position responsible for identifying, estimating, and managing bridge and structural projects from pursuit through completion for a highway heavy civil construction company. This role will lead project development, prepare competitive bids, and oversee execution in the field, working in close partnership with the Bridge/Structures Superintendent to ensure constructability, schedule adherence, quality, and profitability.

This position is hands‑on, field‑connected, and results‑driven, requiring strong technical knowledge of bridge construction means and methods, cost controls, and project leadership.

• Identify and pursue bridge and structural project opportunities in public and private markets
• Review plans, specifications, and contract documents for constructability and risk
• Develop detailed quantity take‑offs, production rates, and cost estimates
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing
• Develop bid schedules, work plans, and risk assessments
• Participate in bid strategy meetings and final bid reviews

• Prepare detailed, accurate estimates for bridge and structural scopes including foundations, piling, concrete, steel erection, and specialty structures
• Develop labor, equipment, and material pricing using historical and current production data
• Build and maintain cost databases and unit pricing
• Identify value‑engineering options and alternate construction approaches
• Clearly define project assumptions, inclusions, and exclusions in proposals

• Lead project handoff from estimating to operations in partnership with the Bridge/Structures Superintendent
• Develop project schedules, phasing plans, and detailed work packages
• Manage budgets, cost controls, and job cost reporting
• Oversee subcontractor procurement, buyout, and contract administration
• Lead owner, engineer, and internal coordination meetings
• Manage change orders, RFIs, submittals, and progress billing
• Ensure compliance with contract requirements, safety standards, and quality plans

• Work side‑by‑side with the Bridge/Structures Superintendent to plan daily and weekly work activities
• Provide real‑time support to the field on means, methods, sequencing, and problem‑solving
• Participate in critical lifts, major pours, girder settings, and other key operations as needed
• Help drive productivity, crew utilization, and schedule recovery efforts

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience in bridge/heavy civil construction)
• 5–10+ years of experience in bridge or heavy civil construction estimating and/or project management
• Strong working knowledge of DOT bridge standards, temporary works, and structural concrete/steel construction
• Proficiency in estimating software, scheduling software, and project management systems
• Ability to read and interpret complex structural plans and specifications

• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Detail‑oriented with strong analytical and problem‑solving ability
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Collaborative mindset with a strong field‑first approach
• High level of integrity and accountability

• Mix of office and field‑based work on active highway and bridge projects
• Ability and willingness to travel to project sites as required