Cost Estimator / Planner/Inspector/Analyst II

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Job no:
Work type: Support Staff
Pay Grade: 13
Major Administrative Unit / College: Infrastructure Planning And Facilities
Department: Ipf Recp Planning Design Construction 40001189
Sub Area: AP- Professionals
Salary: 81900.00 - 100100.00 Salary Commensurate
Location: East Lansing
Categories: Administrative/Business/Professional, Engineers/Architects, Administrative Professionals- AP, Full Time (90-100%), Union, Remote-Friendly

Working/Functional Title

Cost Estimator

Position Summary

Salary- $81,900 - $100,100 annually depending on experience. MSU Benefits - Free comprehensive health care for you and your family as well as a 10% contribution toward your retirement; Generous sick, vacation, personal and holiday time; Eligible to work a partial remote schedule.

This position will develop cost estimates for alterations and new construction on independent systems. Will support project managers by preparing thorough estimates that are in line with most current market information. Reviewing consultant plans and estimates to ensure compliance with MSU construction standards. Completes plan reviews for outside consultants' work and offer suggestions or improvements for estimates and project plans.

Essential job Duties & Responsibilities:

• 40% - General cost estimating - providing cost and budget related to semi-complex and complex projects. Supporting Planning Design and Construction as well as Project Services. Support other IPF and MSU units to create comprehensive Preliminary Cost Estimates (PCE).
• 20% - Maintaining and updating cost estimation records, databases, guidelines, and forms and conducting market research. Ensures that MSU's construction standards and building codes are incorporated with estimations and plans.
• 20% - Communication with project managers, and project sponsors regarding ongoing projects. Attending meetings related to ongoing projects and providing technical direction for consultants (as needed).
• 20% - General project management duties as assigned.

Regular attendance is required to meet business and customer needs.
This position will engage in high performing, leading edge practices, valuing people, partners and stewardship.

This search includes two separate postings for Planner/Inspector/Analyst II (Cost Estimator) and Planner/Inspector/Analyst III (Senior Cost Estimator). Applicants who meet the qualifications for both levels and wish to be considered for both positions must apply to each posting. Applying to only one posting will limit consideration to that posting.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge normally acquired by completing a four- year college degree program in Engineering, Construction Management, Building Sciences, or a related field; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in construction specific to the work being performed, supervision and management; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Possession of a valid Michigan vehicle operator's license will be required for this position. Must drive University vehicle to perform the duties of this classification and meet the Universities rigorous safe driving standards.

Desired Qualifications

A bachelors degree in Construction Management, or related field. 3 - 5 years of experience in cost estimation as it relates to construction. The ability to read blueprints, draw information from blueprints, and analyze drawings related to semi complex or complex building structure alterations. A desired candidate would proactively research market values of building materials, pricing, tariffs, and other costs that would affect the budget of projects and update records to reflect the current market.

The desired candidate would ideally be a team player, who is willing to meet regularly with project managers to assess costs as projects change, and provide input on: budget, scope, scale, and schedules of projects from planning stages through substantial completion of projects. Knowledge of cost estimating systems, familiarity with construction management systems is desired. Certification related to Cost Estimating is encouraged, but not required.

A lifelong learner and problem solver with strong technical and communication skills, who focuses on innovative solutions aligned with University goals.

Required Application Materials

Cover letter and resume required.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

ipf.msu.edu

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding Eligibility ends August 18, 2026, at 11:55 PM

Advertised: Aug 12, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Aug 25, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time