About Van Diest Bros, Inc

Van Diest Bros., Inc. is a family-owned underground utility contractor based in Paramount, California. Established in 1932, we’ve built a long-standing reputation for quality, reliability, and craftsmanship across Southern California.

We specialize in wet utilities — including storm drain treatment and retention systems, fire and domestic water services, and sewer construction — along with repairs and system upgrades.

Serving general contractors, municipalities, and private developers throughout Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, we’re proud to continue a family legacy dedicated to building the infrastructure that supports our communities.

Position Summary – estimator

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive estimates for wet utility projects, which include underground water, sewer, and storm drain systems. The Estimator must be capable of completing and submitting accurate and competitive estimates from takeoff to submission to the client. The Estimator plays a key role in preconstruction and works closely with project managers and field personnel to ensure bids are complete, strategic, and aligned with project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Review drawings, specifications, and addenda to define project scope, identify risks, and evaluate project viability.

• Perform detailed takeoffs for wet utility projects (sewer, storm drain, domestic/fire water, reclaimed water, etc.) using zzTakeoff.

• Develop and price estimates using HCSS HeavyBid, including labor, equipment, materials, and production rates.

• Manage RFQs for quoted items such as concrete structures, valves, and appurtenances. Solicit, review, and level subcontractor proposals as required by project scope.

• Analyze historical cost data and maintain accurate assemblies, unit pricing, and estimate structures.

• Conduct site visits as required to evaluate field conditions, access constraints, and tie-in requirements.

• Coordinate with Project Managers, Superintendents, and field personnel to ensure constructability and alignment with project execution.

• Manage bid schedules, pre-bid meetings, job walks, and proposal deliverables.

• Prepare and assemble complete bid proposals, including scope reviews, clarifications, and documentation.

• Maintain and update VDB’s pricing database, including labor values, assemblies, unit pricing, and historical cost records.

• Track bid results and support post-bid analysis to improve estimating accuracy.

• Take ownership of assigned bids and continue to develop advanced estimating skills and industry knowledge.

Qualifications

• A strong understanding of Construction Management and estimating principles is required. The Estimator must be highly motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple bids and deadlines.

• 2–5+ years of relevant field experience and/or office experience as a Project Engineer or Estimator is preferred.

• Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written). Must be comfortable coordinating with clients, vendors, and subcontractors via email, phone, and in-person at job walks and meetings.

• Strong understanding of civil plans, specifications, and construction documents.

• Strong math, analytical, and organizational skills.

• Must have strong computer skills. Must be proficient with Microsoft Excel and Bluebeam. Experience with PlanSwift, HCSS HeavyBid, and other construction estimating software is required.

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field is preferred.