What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr Capital Project Cost Estimator (5009) position at SEPTA?
Secure Your Future with SEPTA – A Leader in Transportation!
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth-largest transportation system in the U.S., connecting communities across a 2,200-square-mile service region. SEPTA is at the forefront of innovation in the transit industry, ensuring reliable and efficient services while driving economic growth in the Philadelphia region.
We are proud to be recognized as:
2023 FORBES Best in State Employer
Philadelphia Employer of Choice for 2024
We are seeking to hire candidates for our Sr Capital Project Cost Estimator (5009).
Opening Date: 12/12/2025
Closing Date: 01/04/2026
Job Grade: SAM 40
Salary Range: $79,534.00-$99,424.00
OVERALL DESCRIPTION
To perform cost estimating and related duties for SEPTA's Capital Program. These duties include, but are not limited to, reviewing & understanding project design documents, estimating costs for construction projects, reviewing design estimates, monitoring estimated and actual costs, preparing cost estimate reports for management, and reviewing costs for change orders. Will serve as part of Project Control at SEPTA to minimizing Authority exposure and risk associated with cost overruns, particularly as related to full funded agreements.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provides construction estimate for all phases of the Capital Program including grant applications, preliminary through final designs, and construction contracts.
- Performs quantity take-offs for civil, mechanical, and electrical plans and ensuring technical accuracy of estimates for both in-house estimates and third-party estimates.
- Interfaces with Project Managers, Management, Legal Staffs, Designers, Construction Management Consultants, Value Engineering Consultants, and Construction Contractors in the development and review of cost estimates.
- Supports Project Managers in developing tasks and estimating man-hours and costs for review of design, construction management and value engineering consultant proposals.
- Supports Project Managers in review of bid breakdowns.
- Develops, administers and updates a cost database reflecting the history of contractor bids and actual costs for use in preparing future estimates.
- Reviews in-house and contractor change order estimates.
- Develops and updates a Market Conditions Index and recommends, a Market Condition adjustment to the requisition value for construction contracts.
- Assists the Manager, Cost Engineering in the development of SEPTA estimating standards and in-house training seminars.
- Assist Project Management staff to performs cost analyses for delay claims, etc.
- Supports Project Management and Legal staffs in negotiating with construction contractor.
- Attends claims analysis and negotiation meetings, when necessary.
- Complies with all Authority and departmental safety and security policies and procedures as well as all applicable job safety responsibilities.
- Reports any safety concerns, compromises or hazards affecting operations, the public, self and/or other employees.
- Responsible for personal safety and is encouraged to promote the safety of others.
- Performs other duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- B. S. in Engineering or related discipline and five (5) years estimating experience in a construction or project management environment which includes working with construction drawings from conceptual through contract documents required.
- In lieu of B. S. Degree, an Associate’s Degree in engineering or related field with a minimum of nine (9) years construction cost estimating experience working with construction drawings from conceptual through contract documents would be an acceptable equivalent to the above listed requirements.
- Excellent analytical, verbal and written communication skills required.
- Skill in using a computer and modern office suite software required.
- Knowledge of construction materials and method required.
- Knowledge of current CSI Master Format required.
- Knowledge on cost estimating software, Ineight Estimate preferred.
Why Join Our Team? Enjoy Outstanding Benefits!
✅ Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage – Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.
✅ Retirement Security – Participate in a Defined Benefit Pension Plan and a 457B Deferred Compensation Plan to build your financial future.
✅ Work-Life Balance – Enjoy paid parental leave, generous vacation time, and paid holidays to recharge and spend time with loved ones.
✅ Employee Wellness – Access wellness programs and resources to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
✅ Invest in Your Growth – We offer tuition reimbursement to support your education and career advancement.
✅ Student Loan Assistance – Our positions qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, helping you manage and reduce student debt.
✅ Free Travel Perks – Receive a FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass, giving you unlimited access to all SEPTA services!
Join us and take advantage of these incredible benefits while making a difference in your community!
Join the Best in Transit! Apply Today
Click Apply Now and take the next step in your career with SEPTA!
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SEPTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
SEPTA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Nearest Major Market: Philadelphia
Salary : $79,534 - $99,424