Estimator

Jacksonville · On-site$115k – $155k

About this role

UMX is looking for a skilled Estimator to lead the development of competitive, accurate cost estimates for marine construction and commercial dive projects. You will be at the front end of our project pipeline — translating scope documents, drawings, and specifications into detailed cost models that inform pursuit decisions and set our projects up for financial success.

This role is ideal for an estimator with a strong foundation in heavy civil or specialty construction who is ready to apply those skills in the dynamic marine environment. You need to have the analytical rigor and proactive thinking to model complex, risk-laden scopes with confidence.

At UMX, estimating is not isolated from operations. This role works directly with company leadership, project management, and field teams to help shape pursuit strategy, execution planning, and long-term operational growth. We are looking for someone who wants to contribute beyond the numbers — someone who takes pride in building strong projects, strong teams, and stronger systems over time.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead preparation of detailed cost estimates for marine construction and commercial dive projects — from conceptual budgets through full competitive bids.
  • Analyze solicitation documents (RFPs, IFBs, plans, specs, and geotechnical/environmental data) to identify scope, risks, and cost drivers.
  • Develop detailed quantity take-offs and build-up unit costs for labor, equipment, materials, and subcontractor scopes.
  • Identify and quantify project risks; apply appropriate contingencies and develop risk-adjusted pricing strategies.
  • Solicit, evaluate, and incorporate subcontractor and supplier quotes.
  • Coordinate with Project Managers, field supervisors, and equipment managers to validate productivity assumptions.
  • Prepare and present estimates to leadership for review and bid/no-bid decisions.
  • Participate in post-bid reviews and win/loss analyses to refine estimating databases and methodologies.
  • Maintain and improve estimating templates, historical cost databases, and productivity benchmarks.
  • Support project teams during buyout by providing estimate context and scope clarification.
  • Monitor awarded projects to track estimate-vs-actual performance and feed findings back into future estimates.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Minimum 5 years of estimating experience in construction, heavy civil, specialty, industrial, or marine preferred.
  • Strong proficiency in estimating software (HCSS HeavyBid, Sage Estimating, Timberline, or equivalent).
  • Demonstrated experience reading and interpreting complex construction drawings, specifications, and geotechnical reports.
  • Understanding of construction means and methods sufficient to build realistic production models.
  • Familiarity with federal procurement processes (FAR-based competitive bids) is a strong plus.
  • Strong quantitative and analytical skills; advanced Excel proficiency.
  • Ability to manage multiple concurrent estimates under tight bid deadlines.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across leadership, operations, and field teams.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

  • Competitive base salary ranging from $115,000 – $155,000 depending on experience and qualifications.
  • 401(k) with 3% company match.
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
  • Paid time off.

WHY UMX

UMX operates in demanding marine environments where planning, coordination, and execution matter. We value people who think proactively, communicate clearly, and take ownership of outcomes.

This role offers direct exposure to leadership, meaningful involvement in operational decision-making, and the opportunity to help shape how projects are pursued and executed as the company continues to grow.

We are building a team that takes pride in solving difficult problems, supporting one another, and continuously improving how we operate. If you are looking for an opportunity to apply strong construction estimating experience to complex marine and specialty construction projects while growing alongside an ambitious company, we want to hear from you.

Experience:

  • Construction: 5 years (Required)
  • FAR-based competitive bids: 1 year (Preferred)
  • HCSS HeavyBid, Sage Estimating, Timberline, or equivalent: 2 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Company at a glance

Company Profile

Underwater Mechanix Services is a commercial dive and marine construction company that serves global maritime communities.

Based out of Jacksonville, Florida UMX has established itself as a leading commercial dive and marine-heavy construction contractor on the East Coast.

As a respected industry leader, we are committed to health, safety and the environment. We operate in full compliance with all marine construction industry rules and regulations for topside and underwater client projects.

Our dedicated staff of certified professionals follows fair and ethical business practices while taking great pride in serving each of our clients. At UMX our employees are our most valuable resource, we pride ourselves in our ability to attract and retain multi-talented employees that come from diverse backgrounds in the marine construction industry and commercial diving. Our key personnel include but are not limited to engineers, marine construction specialists, commercial divers, supervisors, concrete foreman, certified welder fabricators, crane operators and tug boat captains.

We are innovators and hold ourselves to the highest standard of excellence while delivering the most cost-effective solutions to our clients. To nurture the trust that you place on our performance, we will always happily supply you with references. Our referrals are a reflection of our sustained success.

Underwater Mechanix Services believes in bringing quality craftsmanship to the marine construction industry. Our hiring strategies, innovative techniques and project outcomes are a testament to our success as a company. Every day, we focus on leading with integrity.

Founded2011
Team Size51-200 employees
WorkspaceOn-site
IndustryConstruction
Location
Jacksonville, Florida, United States
LinkedInLinkedIn

Top Benefits

  • 401(k) With 3% Company Match
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off

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