City Of New York

Cost Estimator (General Construction) for the Division of Building and Land Development Services

City Of New York$75K — $95K *
Real Estate & Construction
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture or a related field preferred.
  • 5+ years of experience in cost estimating or construction project management.
  • Strong knowledge of NYC building codes and housing regulations.
  • Proficiency in using RS Means and Sage cost estimating tools.
  • Excellent analytical and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare detailed cost estimates for multi-family residential buildings using construction drawings.
  • Review and validate cost estimates from external consultants for accuracy.
  • Conduct value engineering analyses to identify cost-saving opportunities.
  • Evaluate contractors' bid proposals and prepare recommendations.
  • Assist in managing change orders and negotiating with partners in the project.
  • Analyze construction documents to ensure compliance with specifications.
  • Develop and maintain a historical cost database for project analysis.

Benefits

  • Generous pension plans through the New York Employees' Retirement System.
  • 401(k) and ROTH retirement savings programs available.
  • Comprehensive health benefits including dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
  • Access to training and professional development programs.
  • Opportunities for scholarships and a college savings program.
  • Generous annual leave and paid holidays.
Full Job Description
As a Cost Estimator, you will be responsible for preparing cost estimates based on construction documents, utilizing RS Means database, for both newly-constructed and rehabilitated multi-family buildings assisted by HPD Funding/Assistance. Your Role: The ideal candidate should have a background in Cost Estimating, Engineering, Engineering Science, or related field, and possess a thorough understanding and strong knowledge base of New York City building and construction codes, as well as Federal, State, and City housing codes and regulations, along with experience in methods and standards in cost estimating of new construction and preservation of multi-family residential housing. Your Responsibilities: - Prepare cost estimate by gathering quantities from construction drawings and utilizing RS MEANS database, for multi-family new construction and renovated residential buildings. - Review cost estimates and change orders prepared by external consultants for accuracy and reasonableness multi-family residential buildings. - Perform value engineering to determine possible cost savings, and produce base costs and preliminary budget estimates for new cosntruction and renovated residential buildings. - Review contractors' bid proposals and prepare bid recommendations. - Assist in the processing of documents related to change orders and attend meetings related to change order negotiations with other HPD staff and external partners involved. - Review and analyze construction documents, including drawings, scopes of work, and project specifications. - Assist in developing and maintaining a historical cost database in order to prepare, analyze, and validate estimates and budgets. Preferred skills 1. Thorough knowledge of City, State and Federal housing regulations, procedures and practice. 2. Familiarity with New York City government and housing issues. 3. Proficient in the use of various cost estimating tools, including RS Means and Sage. 4. Proficient in Microsoft Suite (Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook, Word, etc.). 5. Thorough understanding of construction and cost estimating industry standards. 6. Ability to read and understand drawings/plans, scopes of work, and specifications. 7. Ability to negotiate with diverse technical specialists. 8. Ability to work independently, apply independent judgment in technical matters, take initiative, and work effectively with others. 9. Excellent technical, writing, verbal, interpersonal, analytical, and organizational skills. 10. Demonstrated ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and coordinate multiple projects in a timely manner. 11. Demonstrated ability to deal with sensitive, complex issues that may arise. 12. Candidate may be subject to a background investigation conducted by the Department of Investigations. Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position. The NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development does not provide sponsorship for international employees for visa applications, extensions, or status changes, including H-1B visas. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that they meet all qualifying requirements for this position at the time of application. NOTE: The Department of Housing Preservation and Development offers competitive salaries and the following benefits: Generous Pension Plans (The New York Employees' Retirement System); 401(k) and ROTH Retirement Savings Programs; U.S. Savings Bonds Flexible Spending Program; Health Benefits, Dental, Vision Coverage, Prescription Drug Program; Training and Professional Development; Opportunity for Scholarship; College Savings Program; Paid Holidays and Generous Annual Leave NOTE: ONLY THOSE PERMANENT IN THE TITLE OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGER (OR COMPARABLE TITLE) WILL BE CONSIDERED CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGER - 34202 Qualifications 1. A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent approved by a State's Department of Education or a recognized accrediting organization, and five years of full-time satisfactory experience managing and/or inspecting one or more construction projects which must have a total cost of at least $300,000 for each of the five years of the required experience; or 2. One year of the experience as described in "1" above and a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, accredited by regional, national, professional or specialized agencies recognized as accrediting bodies by the U. S. Secretary of Education and by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), in engineering, engineering technology, architecture, architectural technology, landscape architecture, construction, construction technology, or construction management; or 3. One year of the experience as described in "1" above and a valid license as a professional engineer, registered architect, or registered landscape architect, issued by a board of examining engineers, architects, or landscape architects duly established and qualified pursuant to the laws of any state or territory of the United States; or 4. A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent approved by a State's Department of Education or a recognized accrediting organization, and a combination of at least two years of experience as described in "1" above and the education as described in "2" above to equal a total of five years of education and experience. Matriculation in an undergraduate college degree program as described in "2" above may be substituted for experience on the basis of 30 semester credits for one year of satisfactory full-time experience up to a maximum of three years of experience. Note: Candidates must specify for each construction project they worked on: a description of the construction project, the time period they worked on the construction project, and the type of work they performed. Candidates must also specify the money allotted for the project. Driver License Requirement: At the time of appointment to this position, you must have a motor vehicle driver license valid in the State of New York. If you have moving violations, license suspension or an accident record, you may be disqualified. This license must be maintained for the duration of your employment. 5. For Assignment to Level II, In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" above, candidates must have one additional year of satisfactory full-time experience working in Assignment Level I; or one additional year of satisfactory full-time experience as described in "1" above. 6. For Assignment to Level III, in addition to meeting the Qualification Requirements for Construction Project Manager, candidates must have two additional years of satisfactory full-time experience working in Construction Project Manager Assignment Level I and II; or two additional years of satisfactory full-time experience as described in question "1" above and possess a motor vehicle driver license valid in the State of New York which must be maintained for the duration of employment noting that if you have moving violations, license suspension or an accident record, you may be disqualified.

About City Of New York

The City of New York is the most iconic and dynamic city on the planet. With a population of more than 8.4 million people, New York is not only the largest city in the United States — it is the academic, cultural, commercial, and financial capital of the world. City government is filled with opportunities for talented individuals seeking to improve their communities and make a meaningful difference in the lives of their fellow New Yorkers. Every day, the City’s more than 300,000 employees improve infrastructure, provide vital social services, build technology, protect health and safety, and so much more.

City of New York Careers

There has never been a better time to explore the diverse job opportunities at the City of New York—the hub of professional growth and innovation in the public sector.

Work You’ll Do

Join the City of New York’s dynamic team to contribute to the community and enhance the city’s services across a broad spectrum of disciplines. The City of New York offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful work that impacts the lives of millions while navigating through a career filled with learning and growth. Transform the metropolitan landscape and enrich the lives of its residents with the best minds in public administration, urban planning, and community services. The City of New York stands at the forefront of urban management and innovation. Lead with a unique position in public service, at the intersection of technology, community needs, and sustainable development. Work alongside a diverse team of professionals dedicated to improving city operations and enhancing the quality of urban life. Collaborate with the largest network of public service experts in the nation, fostering leadership, diversity training, and professional development.

Introducing the City of New York Public Service Careers

The team is building a market-leading public service career path to help professionals master their roles and contribute effectively to the city’s development.

Do Innovative Work

Join a vast network of experts—dedicated professionals at the intersection of governance, community service, and urban innovation.

Drive Change in Public Service

Deliver targeted solutions and policies that enhance city living and maintain New York as a leading global city through a depth and breadth of expertise that’s second to none.

Be Part of a Great Team

Engage in a wide range of city projects utilizing cutting-edge technology and strategies, harnessing the unparalleled capabilities, scale, and collaborative spirit of a dedicated public service team.

Future-proof Your Career

Advance your career with limitless opportunities in the public sector, supported by unmatched training, development programs, and certification support.

Explore

From improving city infrastructure to enhancing public safety, the City of New York offers a platform for professionals to apply their skills, innovate, and lead.

The City of New York Public Service Initiative

The combined efforts of various departments help overcome urban challenges and lead transformation in city management. Professionals around the globe look to the City of New York for new strategies and solutions to drive significant change and growth in urban living. ## Stay Connected

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. The City of New York looks for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. SEARCH CITY OF NEW YORK JOBS

Keep Up to Date

Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who serve here.

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover what exciting and rewarding opportunities await in the City of New York.
Learn more about City Of New York

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at City Of New York

More Real Estate & Construction Jobs

Find similar Cost Estimator (General Construction) for the Division of Building and Land Development Services jobs: