Construction Estimator

Career Requirements

Degree Level

Bachelor's degree

Degree Field

Building science, construction management, or other business-related or industry-related field

Certification

Preferably ASPE-certified

Experience

Relevant work experience of at least five years

Key Skills

Analytical, detail oriented, critical-thinking, communication and time-management skills; knowledge of calculation programs and databases; knowledge of industry and materials used in the industry

Specific Tasks

• Evaluate risk and budgets for projects by considering RFP, blueprints, specs, or other documents.
• Manage subcontractor bids and process.
• Develop strategies to meet project goals, like setting work hours, sequencing tasks, obtaining materials, etc.
• Develop and present cost estimates for internal and external audiences.

A project estimator is responsible for predicting the cost of a construction project.
Specifically, I am looking for an estimator that will work where directed but also has the ability to work independently. In other words, if a good opportunity arises, to be willing to dump whatever is on hand in order to answer the new (and hopefully better) opportunity.
To accomplish this, an estimator must gather all the data regarding materials, equipment, utilities and manpower required for a given project, figure out how long the project will take, adjust for economic conditions and perform a cost analysis to produce an accurate estimate.
Once the estimate is complete, the estimator presents the estimate to the bid team.
The actual submission of the bid/proposal will be coordinated with the bid team.

The estimator may also be expected to work with architects and other consultants to find ways to reduce costs without endangering the success of the project and could be expected to take part in soliciting and negotiating prices from contractors and suppliers. Estimators will often work a standard 40-hour work week, but emergencies and tight time restraints may require working additional hours to meet deadlines.
The bulk of a estimator’s time will be spent in an office, but sometimes travel to work sites is required to meet with contractors, architects and other team members, and to meet with suppliers.

A bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil engineering, architecture or a related field is usually the educational requirement to become an estimator.

Additionally, a thorough understanding of RSMeans Costworks is a requirement.