Water Estimator
Estimator – Water Department
Location: Huntington, WV
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: Based on Experience and Fair market value
About Us
C.J. Hughes Construction, established in 1946, is a recognized leader in underground utility and pipeline construction. With a strong commitment to safety, quality, and innovation, we have built a reputation for excellence in serving the natural gas, petroleum, and water/wastewater industries. As we continue to expand, we are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Estimator to join our Water Department. This position plays a critical role in ensuring the success of our water distribution and transmission projects by providing accurate and competitive cost estimates.
Position Overview
The Estimator – Water Department will be responsible for preparing comprehensive estimates and bid proposals for water distribution and transmission projects. This individual must possess extensive experience in estimating underground water pipeline projects. This individual will play a vital role in all preconstruction phases including, but not limited to, reviewing plans, specifications, completing material take offs, obtaining subcontractors, material prices, building a project schedule, recommend laborer and equipment resources for the project, preparation of the complete estimate and any and all other tasks not identified above that are typically required when preparing an estimate. Traveling to review the project, meet with the owner and their engineers, meet with subcontractors and material suppliers are all key tasks required throughout the estimate preparation. The ideal candidate will have extensive construction experience and thoroughly understand all the required tasks associated with building such faculty.
- An added recommendation is that the candidate possess extensive knowledge in the construction and estimate of sewer pipeline as well.
- There could be times when the estimator would be involved throughout the construction phase of the project.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct thorough project evaluations, including site visits and participation in pre-bid meetings, to assess project scope and requirements.
- Perform detailed material take-offs and secure competitive pricing from suppliers and subcontractors.
- Develop accurate project schedules, man-hour loading summaries, and crew size assessments.
- Evaluate equipment and resource requirements, estimating overall project duration and cost implications.
- Utilize Microsoft Project and other industry-standard estimating tools to create resource-loaded project schedules.
- Prepare detailed bid proposals, ensuring all project qualifiers, stipulations, and exclusions are clearly defined.
- Present cost estimates and project proposals for internal bid review committees.
- Manage multiple bid submissions simultaneously while meeting strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Stay informed about industry trends, cost fluctuations, and best practices to maintain competitive advantage.
- Assist with additional estimating tasks and responsibilities as assigned by management.
Qualifications & Experience
- Preferred: 10+ years of experience in estimating water distribution and transmission projects.
- Extensive hands-on experience in pipeline and underground utility construction.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Project and other estimating software.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to interpret complex construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
- Exceptional organizational skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills, working effectively with project managers, field teams, and clients.
- Ability to adapt to changing project scopes while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.
Requirements
-Must possess a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation.
-Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check.
-Willingness to travel for site visits and pre-bid meetings as required.
At C.J. Hughes Construction Co., Inc., we take pride in fostering a collaborative, innovative, and safety-focused work environment. We are dedicated to employee development and offer long-term career growth opportunities.
Benefits: (what we offer)
- 401(k) matching
- Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (paid for by the company)
- Health savings account and Flexible Spending account
- Dependent Care Spending Account
- Health Reimbursement Arrangement
- Paid time off (vacation, sick, personal) and 8 Paid Holidays
- Group Life
- Group Long-Term Disability and Short-term Disability
- Voluntary Life
- Critical Illness/Accident/Hospital Indemnity
Schedule:
- Whatever is Needed
Ability to Commute:
- Huntington, WV 25701 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Huntington, WV 25701: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
C.J. Hughes Construction Co., Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
- Department
- Water & Sewer Distribution
- Locations
- Huntington

About CJ Hughes Construction, Inc.
Since inception, C.J. Hughes has focused on being one of the region’s leading underground pipeline, utility, and facility construction contractors. With devotion to safety, environmental and quality, we offer an array of specialized services to the natural gas, petroleum, and water/wastewater industries. With in-house fabrication facilities and a diverse fleet of equipment, we remain flexible to meet all our customers’ needs. Since inception, our geographic footprint has expanded all across the northeast and midwestern region of the US as well as projection farther south.
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