What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cost Estimator / Planner/Inspector/Analyst II position at Michigan State University?
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
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.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
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
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.
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.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
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
Salary : $81,900 - $100,100