Director Of Estimation

Location: Burlington, NC

Position Summary:

The Director of Estimation is a critical leadership role that oversees the estimation process for outside plant construction and last mile drops and installs for National OnDemand. This position engages with Business Development, Contracts, Finance and Operations teams to deliver complete and timely proposals and financial analysis.

Primary Position Duties:

Lead the estimation of outside plant fiber construction and last mile drops and installs projects nationwide, preparing detailed proposals for various contract types including time and material, lump sum, unit-based, and storm/maintenance work.
Identify subcontractors and vendors, compile estimates, schedules and present proposals to Sr Management, and drive internal timelines to achieve successful bid delivery.
Perform project take-offs and submit itemized quote requests to subcontractors and material vendors where applicable in coordination with Contracts and Business Partner team.
Attend pre-bid meetings, conduct site visits/job walk-outs, and facilitate owner meetings to capture project requirements and ensure alignment with business objectives.
Support Operations in determining labor and equipment requirements to complete the project within the proposed schedule.
Write persuasive winning bid proposals which meet the customer’s requirements and highlight the business’s value proposition. Create a bill of materials, and rate card required to complete the project, if applicable.
Capture target price, cost, and margin assumptions and perform profitability and sensitivity analysis within proforma financials.
Outline high-level preliminary schedules which adhere to the proposed schedule and highlight the milestones that need to be completed throughout the duration of the project.
Coordinate with Contracts Manager to understand contract risk and determine proposed redlines. Ensure all estimation activities comply with company safety and regulatory standards.
Conduct post-bid meetings and negotiations/scope review meetings. Once construction documents are released, work with Owners and Engineers to formulate accurate and complete budgets and hand-off to Operations and Project Managers.
Lead adoption of new technologies and best practices in estimation and project planning.
Monitor and report on bid success rates and team performance metrics.
Build out a geographic database that includes all subcontractors and in-house resources with correlated pricing for all types of work performed in that area.
Develop and maintain standardized processes for estimate review and quality assurance.
Establish and maintain working relationships with vendors and subcontractors.
Work with National OnDemand to support new business opportunities.
Demonstrates a commitment to outstanding customer service to National’s Operations team.
Develop talent within the Estimation organization to promote individual development and career growth. Build and enhance a strong team that provides proactive support to meet the current and future needs of the business.
Monitors and assesses current trends and emerging developments within the Telecommunications industry to ensure the Company’s compliance and preparedness.
Remains abreast of best practices and trends relevant to Fiber/Network Construction and Design technologies.
Perform related duties & responsibilities as assigned/requested.

Position Requirements:

10 or more years of experience in related field (i.e., Fiber Telecommunications, Wireless and Tower, and Power Construction)
Deep knowledge of OSP technical build requirements related to various build methods and functions (underground: plow, directional bore, trench, aerial, splicing, etc)
Knowledge of best practices related to contract risk management, subcontractor recruitment, and material procurement.
Experience with industry-standard estimating and design software (Procore, etc)
Knowledge of current and emerging trends and developments within the construction field and corresponding impact on business operations.
Proven ability to adjust quickly to shifting priorities, multiple demands, ambiguity and rapid change.
Preferred: 10+ years of management and leadership experience at the director and/or executive levels developing Network upgrade and build strategies in a telecommunications business environment preferred.
Experience and knowledge with Microsoft office products.

While performing job duties, the employee is required to:

Office setting for some duties.
Occasional outdoor work in various weather conditions.
Exposure to dust, temperature fluctuations, and periodic high noise levels.
Up to 25% travel within the United States.
Possibility of staying away from home for up to 10 days at a time.

The physical demands for this job include:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Regular use of hands and fingers for handling objects, tools, and controls.
Reaching with hands and arms.
Frequent standing, talking, and hearing.

Direct reports:

Estimator

Education or Skills:

Exhibits exceptional attention to detail, is well organized and possesses strong writing skills as needed to complete and submit competitive bid proposals.
Leadership and strategic management skills to develop, coach, and direct the performance of a team to achieve goals and objectives.
Proven leadership and teamwork skills fostering an inclusive, supportive environment by motivating and developing staff at all levels.
Skills and ability to clearly and concisely communicate verbally and in writing to convey complex concepts clearly and logically.
Critical thinking and analytical skills, including the capacity to identify, assess and prioritize competing interests and needs.
Preferred: BS/BA degree in related discipline strongly desired (i.e. Business, Engineering)

Benefits

This is a full time position with access to our comprehensive benefits which include paid time off (PTO), medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, and life insurance, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and 401(k). ; EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: NATIONAL OnDemand, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. The company’s policy does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, religion, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state or local laws. NATIONAL OnDemand, Inc. prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories.

FAQs

Q. What kinds of careers does National OnDemand offer?

We hire across a wide range of disciplines. That includes field operations such as fiber construction, last mile installation, specialized capabilities, and maintenance, as well as corporate and regional roles in project management, safety, HR, finance, marketing, IT, and logistics. Whether you’re interested in working in the field or at headquarters, there are opportunities to grow and make an impact.

Q. Where is National OnDemand located?

Our corporate headquarters is in Burlington, North Carolina, and we have regional offices and project sites across the United States. Many of our employees travel between job sites depending on their role. This nationwide footprint allows us to provide “on demand, anywhere in the U.S.” service for our clients and flexible career opportunities for our teams.

Q. Do I need a telecommunications background to apply?

Not necessarily. Some roles require telecom experience, but many do not. We hire people from a variety of backgrounds, including construction, utilities, project management, administration, safety, and customer service. If you bring a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn, we can provide the training needed to succeed in your position.

Q. What does the hiring process look like?

The process is designed to be clear and respectful of your time:

Submit your application through our Careers page.
Our recruiting team reviews your skills and experience.
If selected, you’ll be contacted for a phone or virtual interview.
Some roles may include a skills assessment or background check.
Once a hiring decision is made, we’ll reach out with next steps and onboarding information.

We aim to communicate clearly throughout the process so you always know where things stand.

Q. Does National OnDemand provide training and advancement opportunities?

Yes. We believe in growing talent from within. Our teams have access to on-the-job training, safety certifications, leadership development, and technical programs tailored to their field. Many of our managers and directors started in entry-level positions and advanced through performance and dedication.

Q. What kind of benefits are offered?

Eligible employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that typically includes:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Life insurance and disability coverage
401(k) retirement plan
Paid time off and holidays
Employee assistance and wellness programs

Specific benefits vary by position and employment type, but we strive to provide competitive, supportive options across the company.

Q. Does the company support work-life balance?

We understand that balance looks different for every employee. Field teams may work variable schedules depending on project timelines, while corporate roles may follow more traditional business hours. We encourage leaders to foster realistic workloads and open communication so employees can perform at their best both professionally and personally.

Q. What is the company culture like?

Our culture is rooted in the six core values that define who we are and how we work. At National OnDemand, Integrity guides every decision, ensuring we do what’s right even when no one is watching. We believe in Teamwork, working together across boundaries to meet customer needs and help one another succeed. You can count on Reliability from every member of our team — consistent, trustworthy performance that our clients and coworkers depend on. We show Respect for each other, our clients, and the communities we serve, valuing every perspective and contribution. We pursue Excellence in everything we do, delivering premium quality and service that set us apart. And we never forget Gratitude, recognizing and appreciating the people who make our success possible. This shared commitment shapes a culture where employees feel supported, valued, and proud to deliver “Anytime, Anywhere” service every day.

Q. How does National OnDemand approach safety?

Safety is a core value across every division. All employees receive thorough safety training, and our teams follow established protocols to protect themselves, their coworkers, and the communities we serve. At the corporate level, our Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) team ensures compliance with all federal, state, and client-specific standards so that every employee returns home safely at the end of each day.

Q. How can I check the status of my application?

You can log into the Careers portal to view your application status. Our recruiting team also communicates directly by email if additional information or interviews are needed. If you haven’t heard back within a few weeks, you’re always welcome to follow up with our HR department for an update.

Q. What makes National OnDemand a great place to work?

We are a fast-growing, national organization with the heart of a family-run business. Employees appreciate the combination of stability, opportunity, and purpose that comes with helping build the networks that connect communities across the country. At National OnDemand, you’re not just taking a job — you’re joining a team that’s building the future of connectivity.

Q. What qualifications or certifications are required to work in fiber optics?

Many of our entry-level roles don’t require prior fiber experience as we provide on-the-job training. However, certifications like OSHA safety training, CDL licenses, or fiber optic certifications can be helpful for advancing in certain technical positions.