Senior Estimator - Michels Trenchless
Michels
Reston, VA · $123k–$185k a year · Posted August 10, 2026
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Where Reston, VA ranks
Where Reston, VA placed in our monthly rankings, month by month. Each month stays online at its own address.
November 2026
- #1Best cities for operations pay after cost of living$177k · of 41
- #1Best all-round cities for remote workers in the Mid-Atlantic93 / 100 · of 37
- #1Best all-round cities for remote workers in the Southeast93 / 100 · of 33
- #2Best all-round cities for mid-career professionals in the Southeast75 / 100 · of 33
- #3Best cities for AI-skill jobs in the Southeast17% · of 87
- #3Best all-round cities for mid-career professionals in the Mid-Atlantic77 / 100 · of 37
Rankings about operations jobs
- Best cities for operations jobs #1 New York (1,429 openings)
- Best cities for operations pay after cost of living #1 Reston ($177k)
- Most requested AI skills in operations jobs #1 AI tools in daily work (2.5%)
- AI tools named most often in operations jobs #1 Claude (0.28%)
- Employers with the most operations jobs #1 Amazon (1,480 roles)
How AI is used in this kind of work
AI use among cost estimators is little observed so far. Measured exposure for cost estimators: 0% (little observed).
Share of this job’s tasks that AI is already used for at work, from real usage. It is not a forecast of job loss, and a low number means no use seen yet. Source: Anthropic Economic Index.
Skills this job asks for
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About the job
Senior Estimator
Reston, Virginia
Michels Trenchless, Inc. sets the standard for complex underground infrastructure construction and rehabilitation projects across North America. For decades, our teams have delivered some of the industry's most challenging tunnel, trenchless, and utility projects while maintaining an unwavering commitment to safety, quality, and performance. We are seeking a Senior Estimator to join our team in Reston, Virginia , supporting the Anacostia Rehabilitation Project , a major long-term wastewater infrastructure program expected to continue through 2033. This position will work directly with project leadership and operational teams to support project estimating, change management, forecasting, and strategic planning efforts throughout the life of the project. Our work improves lives. Find out how a career with Michels Trenchless can change yours.
As an Estimator, you will play a critical role in supporting the successful execution of one of the largest and most complex infrastructure projects in the region.
Responsibilities include:
Review contract documents, drawings, specifications, and geotechnical information to identify risks, opportunities, and project requirements.
Develop detailed labor, equipment, material, subcontractor, and production-based cost estimates.
Collaborate with project management, engineering, field operations, procurement, and executive leadership teams.
Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations.
Assist with project budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis activities.
Perform quantity takeoffs and productivity evaluations.
Participate in owner meetings, subcontractor meetings, jobsite visits, and project reviews.
Maintain accurate estimating databases and historical cost information.
Why You:
Opportunity to be part of a landmark infrastructure project through 2033.
High visibility role supporting project leadership and executive management.
Exposure to complex tunnel rehabilitation, underground construction, and wastewater infrastructure work.
Collaborative environment where your ideas and expertise directly influence project success.
Long-term project stability with significant growth opportunities.
What It Takes:
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Engineering Technology, Business, Finance, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum 5 years of estimating, project engineering, project management, or construction operations experience.
Strong understanding of heavy civil, underground utility, tunneling, trenchless, rehabilitation, or wastewater infrastructure construction.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
Experience with estimating software and cost databases preferred.
Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills.
Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
Experience with tunnel rehabilitation, wastewater conveyance systems, or large-diameter utility infrastructure.
Experience with change order development and negotiation.
Familiarity with trenchless construction technologies.
Experience supporting large public infrastructure projects.
Periodic travel to project sites, pre-bid meetings, subcontractor facilities, and corporate offices will be required.
This information reflects the anticipated base salary for this position based on current market data. Minimums and maximums may vary based on location. Actual pay will be adjusted based on individual’s skills, experiences, education, and other job-related factors permitted by law.
Expected Salary Range $123,000 — $185,000 USD
AA/EOE/M/W/Vet/Disability
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