Estimator & Special Project Manager in Marion, Iowa at Acterra Group LLC

Location: Marion, IA

Travel: 25%

Job Summary:

The Estimator & Special Projects Manager at Acterra Group plays a duel, high-impact role on our team – leading accurate and comparative project estimation while managing the full lifecycle of special projects from award through closeout. This position focuses on fuel systems construction and installation projects (above ground and under ground fuel tanks, piping, and related mechanical systems), with particular emphasis on strategic or complex accounts, specialty customers, and internal consensuses improvement initiatives.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Estimation

• Conduct through and detailed cost estimations for fuel tank installation, repair, and related construction projects, ensuring compliance with PEI, API, and STI standards.
• Utilize estimating software to prepare accurate, competitive project bids from initial takeoff through final submission.
• Frequently review and validate cost estimates to ensure accurate reflection of scope, timeline, and materials; update estimates as project details evolve.
• Stay current on industry trends, material pricing, and cost fluctuations to maintain up-to-date and competitive estimations.
• Assist in the negotiation and finalization of contracts based on estimated costs.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, procurement, and field teams to gather information and align estimates with execution realities.

Special Project Management

• Oversee the complete project lifecycle for designated special projects – from initial estimation through execution, closeout, and final review.
• Lead and coordinate fuel tank installation and service projects for specialty or strategic customers, ensuring compliance with all applicable standards and client specifications.
• Manage special internal projects schedules, budgets, scope documentation, and resource plans.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for special project clients and stakeholders, ensuring clear, timely, and consistent communication throughout the project lifecycle.
• Monitor project progress against plan; identify risks, develop mitigation strategies, and escalate issues as appropriate.
• Work closely with procurement and construction teams to coordinate materials, subcontractors, and field resources.
• Ensure all projects adhere to safety standards, regulatory requirements, and Acterra Group’s quality expectations, particularly in high-stake environments such as airports and military installations.
• Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement within the project team.

Other Duties

• Please note, this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong analytical and mathematical skills with high attention to detail in cost and scope development. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities simultaneously.
• Excellent communication skills – written and verbal – for effective engagement with clients, crews, and leadership.
• Problem solving mindset with the ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing project conditions.
• Familiarity with construction industry standards: PEI, API, STI, and applicable safety regulations.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate project records and documentation.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil or mechanical engineering, quantity surveying, or related field – or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in construction estimating and/or project management, preferably with a focus on fuel tanks, mechanical piping, or similar industrial/petroleum projects.
• Experience working on government, military, or aviation fueling projects is beneficial.