Construction Cost Estimator

Overview

Please note that this position is contingent upon the successful award of a contract currently under bid.

Summary:

The Construction Cost Estimator provides professional cost estimation services for construction, renovation, and maintenance projects. The role ensures accurate, defensible cost projections that support planning, budgeting, and procurement decisions. The estimator analyzes drawings, specifications, facility data, and site conditions, and prepares detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and contingencies. This position directly supports project managers, engineers, and leadership by delivering reliable financial assessments for strategic decision-making.

Responsibilities

Essential Job Functions:

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for construction, renovation, demolition, and infrastructure projects.
• Review architectural, civil, structural, electrical, and mechanical plans to develop accurate quantity takeoffs.
• Analyze historical cost data, market trends, and contractor pricing to refine estimates.
• Develop cost models for conceptual, preliminary, and final design phases.
• Assist in developing independent government cost estimates (IGCEs) for acquisitions.
• Maintain cost databases, unit price references, and estimating tools.
• Coordinate with engineering, maintenance, and project management staff to identify scope requirements and constraints.
• Perform risk assessments and create cost contingencies and escalation factors.
• Support budget planning by providing cost inputs, alternatives, and value-engineering options.
• Evaluate contractor proposals to validate pricing, identify discrepancies, and recommend adjustments.
• Assist with scheduling inputs such as phasing, critical path considerations, and resource allocation.
• Prepare written reports summarizing assumptions, methodologies, and cost conclusions.
• Ensure all estimates comply with federal, agency, and industry standards.

Qualifications

Necessary Skills and Knowledge:

• Ability to interpret construction drawings, technical specifications, building codes, and engineering reports.
• Strong understanding of construction means, methods, materials, and labor requirements.
• Proficiency with cost estimating software (e.g., RSMeans, CostWorks, Sage Estimating).
• Skill in quantity takeoffs, cost modeling, parametric estimating, and comparative pricing.
• Ability to communicate technical cost information clearly to non-technical audiences.
• Attention to detail and strong analytical reasoning.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Understanding of federal IGCE requirements and basic acquisition principles (helpful but not mandatory).

Minimum Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• At least 3-5 years of experience in construction or cost estimating.
• Experience reviewing construction documents and producing independent estimates.
• Primarily office-based, with occasional site visits as needed.
• Ability to work on a computer for extended periods and review technical drawings.
• Works under the general supervision of a project manager, engineering supervisor, or facilities/utility program manager.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA) - International Cost Estimating and Analysis Association
• Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) - American Society of Professional Estimators
• Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE) Certifications:
• Cost Estimating Professional (CEP)
• Certified Cost Technician (CCT)
• Certified Cost Professional (CCP)
• RSMeans Cost Estimating Certification
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• OSHA 30 Construction

Pay and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $100,000.00 to $130,000.00 annually.

At Goldbelt, we value and reward our team's dedication and hard work. We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company matching, tax-deferred savings options, supplementary benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.