Cost Estimator/Bid Specialist
Description:
Job Description
Cost Estimator / Bid Specialist
Location: Detroit, MI
Employment Type: Full-Time
Build What Matters. Win What Counts.
OCG Companies is seeking a detail-driven and analytical Cost Estimator / Bid Specialist to support our continued growth in civil infrastructure construction.
This role is central to our business development strategy and directly impacts our ability to secure complex municipal and utility projects. You will prepare competitive, data-driven bid packages for projects including:
Concrete flatwork
Underground utility infrastructure
Sewer systems
Water main installations
Utility restoration (hard and soft surface)
If you thrive in a numbers-driven environment, enjoy research and analytics, and understand the mechanics of civil construction bidding — this is a high-visibility opportunity to grow with an industry leader.
What You’ll Do
Estimating & Data Analysis
Develop accurate cost estimates using historical data, vendor pricing, and market research
Analyze production rates, labor costs, material pricing, and subcontractor proposals
Build and maintain detailed unit rate bid sheets
Leverage Excel and other tools for advanced cost modeling and scenario analysis
Bid Development & Strategy
Review RFQs, RFPs, ITBs, drawings, and technical specifications
Extract scope requirements and identify risk factors
Coordinate with operations, project management, and field teams for input
Assemble complete, compliant bid packages for municipal and utility clients
Track project postings and identify new bidding opportunities
Market Research & Business Intelligence
Conduct research on potential customers, municipalities, and utility providers
Analyze competitor trends and historical award data
Monitor industry pricing shifts and supply chain changes
Support business development with data-driven insights
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in civil construction estimating (flatwork, underground utilities, sewer, water main, restoration)
Strong knowledge of construction bidding processes for municipal or public works projects
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, formulas, lookups, cost modeling)
Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
Ability to read and interpret civil drawings, specifications, and blueprints
Familiarity with project posting platforms and solicitation systems
Exceptional attention to detail and deadline management
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Bonus Qualifications:
Experience with estimating software platforms
Background in data analytics or business intelligence
Understanding of production rates and field operations
What Makes This Role Unique
Direct impact on revenue growth
High visibility within executive leadership
Opportunity to shape bidding strategy
Exposure to large-scale municipal infrastructure projects
Growth potential within a rapidly expanding organization
About OCG Companies
OCG Companies is a Detroit-based infrastructure services company with over 26 years of experience serving municipalities and utility providers. With more than 250,000 completed jobs, we understand the complexities of underground infrastructure and restoration better than anyone.
We specialize in:
Hard and soft surface restoration
Underground utility construction
Trucking and hauling
Forestry services
Municipal infrastructure support
Through strong customer service and strategic growth, we have become one of Michigan’s largest utility servicing companies.
Learn more at: Description
We are a Detroit based, company that has been serving businesses and communities alike for 26 years. Having completed over 250,000 jobs, we fully understand the unique needs of municipalities and the utility industry.
We specialize in hard and soft surface restoration, trucking, forestry, and many other complementary services. Through our excellent customer service and continual growth, we have transitioned into one of the largest utility servicing companies in Michigan.
Please visit our website at :
Full-time