Senior Civil Estimator at Sendero Energy Services in Houston, TX

Job Title: Senior Civil Estimator Location: Houston, TX Position Type: Full-Time Company Overview Sendero Energy Services is a leading civil construction–focused professional services company specializing in earthwork, drainage, and utilities for renewable energy developers and EPC firms across the Southwest. As our project portfolio continues to expand, we are seeking a Senior Civil Estimator to play a critical role in driving accurate, competitive, and strategic estimates for complex civil construction projects. This position is ideal for a seasoned estimator who brings strong technical expertise, market insight, and leadership to the preconstruction process.

Key Responsibilities Senior-Level Project Estimation & Strategy

• Lead the preparation of detailed, high-value cost estimates for large-scale and complex civil construction projects supporting renewable energy and energy infrastructure developments.
• Responsible for the review of final estimate and presentation to management and client.
• Review and interpret project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, and contract documents to develop comprehensive and competitive bids.
• Establish estimating strategies, production assumptions, and risk profiles to maximize competitiveness and profitability.
• Serve as a key preconstruction partner to executive leadership, project managers, and operations teams.

Cost Analysis & Risk Management

• Develop high level project schedules in Microsoft Projects
• Identify project risks, constructability challenges, and scope gaps; develop contingency plans and pricing strategies accordingly.
• Maintain current knowledge of regional pricing trends, vendor capabilities, and market conditions to support informed decision-making.

Bid Leadership & Review

• Lead the development, review, and final submission of bid packages, ensuring compliance with client requirements and internal standards.
• Participate in bid reviews and present estimate summaries, general conditions, clarifications, and risk assessments to leadership.
• Collaborate closely with the business development team to align bid strategy with company growth objectives.
• All other duties as assigned.

Vendor & Subcontractor Management

• Review and verify subcontractor bid packages before being transmitted for quotes.
• Responsible for reviewing and incorporating quotes for vendors, subcontractors, bond and insurance.
• Leverage long-standing industry relationships to strengthen Sendero’s market position and bid competitiveness.
• Evaluate subcontractor scopes, qualifications, and exclusions to minimize risk exposure.

Mentorship & Process Improvement

• Provide guidance and mentorship to preconstruction staff.
• Assist in developing and refining estimating standards, templates, and best practices.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to estimating accuracy, efficiency, and win rates.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field. Applicable experience may be substituted for the degree requirements.
• 10+ years of experience in civil construction estimating, with demonstrated leadership on large projects. Preferred self-perform and field experience.
• Strong background in heavy civil, demolition, drilling, concrete, drainage and utilities in the renewable energy or energy infrastructure market.
• Advanced proficiency with HeavyBid, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong understanding of Texas and Southwest construction markets.
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities.
• High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously under tight deadlines.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based annual bonus.
• Healthcare, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401k Match
• Truck allowance.
• Phone allowance.
• All work-related expenses reimbursed weekly, including fuel, lodging, and per diem.
• Paid vacation: Three weeks (120 hours) after completion of a 90-day probationary period.
• Company-sponsored hunting and fishing trips, representing Sendero Energy Services.

Equal Opportunity Employer Sendero Energy Services is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.