Lead Designer and Estimator

Overview

Join a Team That Builds the Impossible

RoadGuard is a division of GeoStabilization International (GSI), the leading geohazard mitigation and critical infrastructure protection firm in North America. RoadGuard focuses on high-integrity guardrail, fencing, and automated gate access systems that safeguard roadways, industrial sites, and transportation corridors.

Our work protects people and critical infrastructure in some of the most challenging and sensitive environments.

Our passion is to innovate and implement optimized solutions that protect people and improve infrastructure.

We’re hiring a Lead Estimator & Designer to drive estimating strategy, system design, and bid execution across all commercial and industrial fencing and gate/access system projects in the Western U.S.

This is a mission-critical, succession-track role with direct visibility to executive leadership. You’ll be the go-to expert for fence and gate system scoping, cost modeling, and engineered solutioning—ensuring every project we pursue is both profitable and protectively excellent.

You’ll report directly to the Regional GM and collaborate across operations, business development, and field teams to shape scalable solutions and winning proposals. Success in this role unlocks future leadership opportunities.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end design and estimating process for commercial and industrial fencing and gate/access control scopes: chain link, anti-climb, high-security, wildlife, sound barrier, manual and automated gates, and DOT applications.
• Interpret engineering drawings, topographic maps, and technical specifications to develop optimal fence and gate system designs and layouts.
• Own material takeoffs, labor estimates, crew production rate modeling, and subcontractor integration.
• Partner with sales and BD teams to assess site conditions and develop accurate, field-ready bids.
• Create design drawings (AutoCAD, Bluebeam, or equivalent) for submittals, installations, and proposals.
• Collaborate with Project Managers to refine construction methods and value-engineering opportunities.
• Coordinate with suppliers and specialty subcontractors for gate operators, card readers, safety loops, and integrated access components.
• Drive continuous improvement in estimating tools, cost databases, and lessons-learned feedback loops.

Qualifications

You’re a disciplined estimator and systems thinker with deep knowledge of fencing and automated gate systems— and the judgment to balance quality, cost, and installability. You have a builder’s mindset and a track record of seeing your designs come to life. You thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial culture where outcomes matter more than inputs.

You are someone with the intellectual sharpness, self-leadership, and operational rigor to help shape the future of RoadGuard’s growth in the Western U.S.

This is a key succession role for our division. We are investing in someone who can grow into a senior leadership position and help scale both people and systems as RoadGuard expands nationally.

Must-Haves

• 5–10 years of estimating or design experience in fencing, gate systems, guardrail, or civil construction
• Demonstrated expertise in commercial/industrial fence and gate/access control design, materials, and installation sequencing
• Proficiency with Bluebeam, CAD software, and Microsoft Excel (advanced use expected)
• Proven success estimating self-performed scopes and understanding construction labor models
• Experience translating engineered drawings into real-world installation plans
• High attention to detail and systems accuracy—"wrong takeoffs” don't happen on your watch
• Ability to manage multiple bids and design efforts simultaneously under tight deadlines
• Based in or willing to relocate to Erie, CO (Denver Metro)

Preferred but Not Required

• Experience estimating DOT or federal/military fence and gate scopes
• Background in guardrail, fall protection, or civil site development
• Familiarity with gate automation, access controls, and vehicle/pedestrian safety systems
• Knowledge of wildlife, anti-climb, or specialty high-security fencing specs
• Familiarity with Western U.S. regional pricing, vendors, and terrain-driven challenges

What Sets Top Candidates Apart

• High cognitive agility and learning speed
• Track record of solving cost/design challenges creatively under pressure
• Proven impact: cost savings, margin lifts, or win-rate increases
• Ownership mentality and bias for action—doesn’t wait to be told what to do
• Fluent in design and construction operations, including gate and access control integration

What GSI Offers

• Competitive base salary in the $95-115,000 range
• Yearly bonus
• Participation in the Equity Ownership program
• 401 (k) with company match
• Full medical, dental and vision insurance
• Paid holidays and generous PTO