Senior Estimator

About the Position We’re seeking a Senior Estimator to support large, heavy-civil infrastructure programs in highways, roads, and bridges, transit (including rail systems), aviation (international airports), and water sectors delivered through both traditional and alternative methods. This role is responsible for all phases of estimating, from early conceptual and planning stages through final design and construction, and works collaboratively with internal teams, external consultants, and contractors to produce accurate, defensible, and risk-informed estimates within a schedule-driven environment. This is a long-term, full-time, on-site position located in Sacramento, CA. Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Develops and manages capital cost estimates for program and project components from conceptual planning through final design and construction. Coordinates with engineering, project controls, and other technical disciplines to collect, validate, and integrate data used in cost development. Supports preparation of programmatic capital cost estimates for business plans, baselines, and update reports. Reviews and analyzes contractor estimates, bids, change proposals, and claims for accuracy, consistency, and compliance with program requirements. Develops policies and procedures for programmatic cost estimating. Participates in risk, value engineering, and constructability workshops to support cost validation and decision making. Attributes Excellent communication and interpersonal skills (e.g., tact, diplomacy, influence, etc.), with the ability to effectively collaborate and interact with clients, team members, and stakeholders. Exceptional organizational skills and supreme attention to detail. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and make sound decisions under pressure. Strong negotiation skills. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, construction science/management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 10+ years of estimating experience on heavy civil infrastructure transit projects with values exceeding $1B. Knowledge of design and construction disciplines, including the means and methods used on transit infrastructure projects. Experience coordinating and utilizing internal and external resources to develop accurate cost estimates within a schedule-driven program environment. Experience analyzing, reviewing, and estimating change orders. Experience developing presentations and then delivering those to clients and other stakeholders. Experience reading blueprints and generating quantities, work breakdown structures, and scopes of work. Experience with database driven estimating software as well as electronic quantity surveying systems (Timberline/Sage300, HeavyBid, Onscreen Takeoff). Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite/Office 365 (e.g., Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in civil engineering or construction science. Active professional certifications such as CEP, CCP, CCT (AACE); CPE (ASPE); CCM (CMAA); MRICS/FRICS, AssocRICS (RICS); or CCE/A (ICEAA) or PE license in the state of California. 15+ years of estimating experience on heavy civil infrastructure projects, including a minimum of 10 years in heavy civil infrastructure transit projects with typical project values exceeding $1B. Experience in estimating roles supporting owners. Experience with Microsoft Power BI, Oracle Cloud Analytics, or other dashboard KPI reporting software. Compensation Details Expected Salary: $176k-$200k/year ($85-$96/hour). Luster provides the salary range that the company in good faith believes it might offer for this position based on the successful candidate’s level of experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, education, certifications, licenses, geographic location, etc. Luster reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the pos…