Amtrak

Lead Cost Estimator - 90386206 - Philadelphia

Amtrak$94K — $122K *
Real Estate & Construction
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent education and experience required.
  • 6+ years of relevant work experience, 8+ years preferred.
  • Experience with cost estimates for large to mega capital construction projects.
  • Experience with quantitative risk assessment estimates.
  • Relevant rail industry capital construction experience preferred.
  • Certifications such as CCT, CCP, CEP, or PMP are a plus.
  • Hands-on experience in data analysis and database management, preferably SQL.

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with project manager to develop cost estimates using InEight and Excel.
  • Collect project scope details and maintain the Basis of Estimate document.
  • Perform quality control checks on fellow estimators' estimates and develop review reports.
  • Identify work packages and estimate direct, indirect, and 'soft' costs for projects.
  • Support development of project budget contingency to address uncertainties and risks.
  • Assist with change order impact estimates and mentor junior estimators.
  • Conduct site visits for cost estimate development and scope understanding.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans.
  • 401K retirement plan with employer match.
  • Paid time off and wellness programs.
  • Education reimbursement and Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility.
  • Rail pass privileges and adoption/surrogacy assistance.
Full Job Description
**This role is headquartered from Philadelphia, PA.**

Job Summary

Under the guidance of Cost Estimating management, the Lead Project Controls Specialist (Lead Cost Estimator) prepares cost estimates for mid-sized to large capital construction projects with moderate to high complexity. This role involves close collaboration with the Project Manager and other team members to develop and update project cost estimates. The Lead Cost Estimator adheres to established departmental procedures, guidelines, and best practices throughout the estimate development process and when documenting the basis of estimate, while also supporting management in the development and continuous improvement of existing procedures and practices. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed.

Essential Functions

  • Collaborates with the Project Manager and team to create cost estimates at various scope maturity levels using InEight Estimate application and Excel.
  • Collects project scope details, drawings, schedules, and execution strategies. Prepares and maintains the Basis of Estimate document to support development of cost estimates
  • Perform QC checks on estimates prepared by fellow Estimators on the team and review and assessment of cost estimates completed by others. Provides feedback in prioritized and comprehensive format and develops formal Cost Estimate Review Reports when required.
  • Develop cost estimate by identifying work packages, quantifying scope elements, estimating direct cost line items and construction indirect costs, and estimating project "soft" costs such as project management, construction management, etc.
  • Support development of project budget contingency to account for estimate uncertainties and potential project risks events. Participates in risk evaluation sessions or pre-construction reviews, and ensures risks are documented and assessed in terms of probability and impact to enable project team development of risk mitigation plans and contingencies
  • Assists with preparing and assessing change order impact estimates, mentors' junior estimators, contribute to initiatives in business process improvements.
  • Conduct site visits of future and ongoing construction project sites to support cost estimate development and gain knowledge of craft/discipline scope of work.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of education, training and/or relevant experience.
  • Plus 6 years of relevant work experience.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of education, training and/or relevant experience.
  • Plus 8 years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience developing estimates on large to mega capital construction projects in railroad environment.
  • Experience in quantitative risk assessment cost estimates supporting contingency development.
  • Capital construction experience in the rail industry.
  • One or more of the following certifications / credentials: CCT, CCP, CEP (AACE), PMP (PMI)
  • Hands on experience with data analysis
  • Experience with data analysis, preferably with Excel.
  • Experience with database management (SQL)


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Must have excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Intermediate to Advanced skill level/knowledge in:
    o Principles and practices of project cost estimating through all phases of the project lifecycle
    o Reviewing and providing feedback on all aspects of project cost estimates developed by others.
    o Business processes, techniques, and procedures related to cost estimating in large and/or complex capital construction projects
    o Construction / Engineering contracting methods and types
    o Principles and practices of construction services and materials procurement
    o Cost estimating methods and practices for projects in conceptual design phase through completion of detailed design
    o Statistical analysis methods
    o Principles of business letter writing and report preparation
    o Principles and practices of budget preparation and administration
    o Integration of estimating and scheduling processes, tools, systems, and data.
    o Common software tools used in project cost estimating (e.g., InEight Estimate (Hard Dollar), Heavy Bid, Sage Timberline, RS Means) in developing and maintaining cost estimates for large and/or complex construction projects and extracting data to generate analysis and status reports.
    o Use of internal financial system data to determine benchmarking to validate and improve estimates.
    o Advanced user skills in MS Excel for data analysis.
    o Communicating complex information clearly and concisely, both orally and writing across all levels.
    o Effectiveness working diplomatically across teams with varying objectives.
    o Strong focus on collaboration, team building and customer service.
    o Objective evaluation of available information or differing points of view and making sound and timely decisions consistent with department strategic goals.
    o Establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
    o Negotiation and conflict resolution.
    o Leading effective meetings.
    o Delegating authority and responsibility.
    o Preparing and delivering effective presentations and/or training to diverse audiences.
    o Preparing professional letters, memos, and other documents using Excel, Word, Visio, and/or PowerPoint.
  • Basic to Intermediate skill level/knowledge in:
    o Principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation
    o Leading, motivating, selecting, supervising, training, and evaluating staff.


Environmental Conditions/Physical Demands

The salary/hourly range is $94,300.00 - $122,256.00. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, etc. Depending on an employee's assigned worksite or location, Amtrak may consider a geo-pay differential to be applied to the employee's base salary. Amtrak may offer additional incentive and pay programs to recognize and reward our employees, including a short-term incentive bonus based upon factors such as individual and company performance that is commensurate with the level of the position and/or long-term incentive plan compensation. In addition to your salary, Amtrak offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes health, dental, and vision plans; health savings accounts; wellness programs; flexible spending accounts; 401K retirement plan with employer match; life insurance; short and long term disability insurance; paid time off; back-up care; adoption assistance; surrogacy assistance; reimbursement of education expenses; Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility; Railroad Retirement sickness and retirement benefits; and rail pass privileges. Learn more about our benefits offerings here.

Requisition ID:165954

Work Arrangement:06-Onsite 4/5 Days Click here for more information about work arrangements at Amtrak.
Relocation Offered:Yes
Travel Requirements:Up to 25%

About Amtrak

Discover the wealth of opportunities awaiting you with Amtrak, the nation's premier passenger rail service. Learn about the high-paying positions and the benefits of joining a mission-driven organization committed to connecting communities.

Amtrak's Legacy and Mission

Since its inception in 1971, Amtrak has been at the forefront of connecting cities and communities across North America with its extensive network of passenger rail services. Born from the need to revitalize the nation's train transportation system, Amtrak has grown into a symbol of national pride and technological advancement in public transport. With a steadfast commitment to safety, efficiency, and reliability, Amtrak's mission transcends mere transportation; it aims to create a more connected society. Through continuous investment in the modernization of its fleet and infrastructure, Amtrak demonstrates an unwavering dedication to enhancing the passenger experience and setting the standard for rail travel in North America.

Why Choose Amtrak?

Choosing a career with Amtrak means more than joining a leading transportation company; it represents a commitment to fostering safety, driving innovation, and serving the community. Amtrak stands out as an employer for its holistic approach to employee development, offering a supportive environment where safety is paramount—not just for passengers but for every team member. Innovation is at the core of Amtrak's operations, where cutting-edge technology and creative solutions are embraced to improve service and efficiency. Moreover, a career at Amtrak is an opportunity to contribute to a service that plays a crucial role in the lives of millions, enhancing connectivity and accessibility while upholding values of environmental stewardship and community service. Whether you're passionate about engineering, customer service, or logistics, Amtrak offers a dynamic and rewarding work setting where you can make a tangible impact.

Amtrak's Hiring Process

Visit Amtrak’s official website to gain insights into the steps to join Amtrak, from application to acceptance.

Application Submission

Submitting a standout application that captures your qualifications and enthusiasm for rail service. You can find tips on how to write a resume that makes employers want to interview you here.

The Interview Process

Amtrak uses a unique interview process to screen candidates. For more details on the exact stages, visit their official website and contact their human resources department. For more general tips about how to prepare for a successful interview, go here.

Background Checks and Final Steps

Amtrak prioritizes the safety of its passengers and employees. That means certain candidates may be required to complete a background check before they begin working. Visit Amtrak’s official website for more information about which specific roles may require a background check.

Employee Benefits and Perks

Amtrak careers are not just rewarding in terms of salary but in overall well-being. Discover the comprehensive benefits package that makes Amtrak such an excellent employer.

Health and Wellness

Contact Amtrak’s human resources department for details on Amtrak's health, dental, and vision plans, emphasizing the commitment to employee health.

Retirement and Financial Planning

Full-time employees at Amtrak often take advantage of the retirement planning options available to them. Explore the 401(k) plans, pension options, and financial planning services available to employees by contacting Amtrak’s HR department.

Work-Life Balance

Amtrak currently has initiatives in place to support a healthy work-life balance, including flexible scheduling and paid time off. Visit their website for more details.

Training and Development Programs

Unveil the pathways for professional growth through Amtrak's dedicated training and development offerings.

Onboarding for Success

Amtrak ensures new hires are welcomed, oriented, and prepared for their roles.

Continuous Learning Opportunities

Ongoing education and training programs designed to advance your skills and career are available for ambitious employees. Consult with Amtrak’s HR department for more specific details.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Amtrak is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that values and respects diversity.

Building a Diverse Workforce

Amtrak's strategies and programs are aimed at fostering diversity within its team.

Inclusion in the Workplace

Initiatives to ensure all employees feel valued, included, and empowered to contribute fully.

Career Growth Opportunities at Amtrak

Amtrak offers upward mobility and career advancement paths to ambitious and talented professionals.

From Entry-Level to Leadership

Amtrak thrives because of ambitious employees who take advantage of the potential for growth within the company. The right person can start at an entry-level and advance to leadership positions at Amtrak.

Specialized Career Tracks

Some specialized roles within Amtrak offer unique challenges and rewards, including technical and leadership positions.

Embark on a Rewarding Journey with Amtrak Careers

Choosing Amtrak as the next step in your career path offers more than just a job—it opens the door to a world of opportunities where your growth, well-being, and success are at the forefront. Amtrak careers are synonymous with a commitment to excellence, not only in transportation but in fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. At Amtrak, employees are valued as the most crucial asset, a belief that is reflected in the comprehensive benefits, continuous learning opportunities, and career advancement programs designed to elevate your professional journey.
Learn more about Amtrak
Size
20,000 employees
Industry
Founded
1971

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Amtrak

More Real Estate & Construction Jobs

Find similar Lead Cost Estimator - 90386206 - Philadelphia jobs: