Cost Estimator

MB&A CPAs; Dubai; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent company in Dubai seeks a Cost Estimator responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates and analyzing project requirements in construction and engineering. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree, significant experience, and a solid understanding of UAE market conditions, ensuring realistic budgets that align with client specifications and profitability goals.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of relevant experience in cost estimation.
• Familiarity with UAE construction market rates and labor laws.
• Proficiency in English; Arabic is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and analyze project costs.
• Support bid document preparation and evaluate supplier quotations.
• Monitor project costs and track variances throughout the project.

Skills

Analytical skills

Numerical skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Tools

CostX

PlanSwift

Bluebeam

MS Excel

Job description

Job Purpose:

The Cost Estimator is responsible for analyzing project requirements and preparing accurate cost estimates for construction, engineering, or manufacturing projects. This role involves evaluating materials, labor, equipment, and other factors to ensure budgets are realistic and competitive while maintaining profitability and compliance with client specifications.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Cost Estimation & Budgeting

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for proposed projects based on technical drawings, specifications, and site visits.
• Analyze and quantify material, labor, and equipment costs.
• Develop and maintain cost databases and estimation templates.
• Review and update cost estimates as project details evolve.

2. Tender & Proposal Support

• Assist in preparing bid documents and tender submissions.
• Collaborate with project teams, architects, engineers, and procurement to gather data for competitive proposals.
• Evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations for accuracy and compliance.

3. Project Cost Monitoring

• Track actual project costs versus estimates and report variances.
• Provide cost-related insights and recommendations to support project decision-making.
• Support in updating forecasts and budgets throughout the project lifecycle.

4. Market & Risk Analysis

• Conduct market research on material and labor costs, trends, and availability.
• Identify potential risks and recommend contingency provisions in estimates.
• Maintain awareness of regulatory changes, inflation, and other external factors that may impact project cost.

5. Documentation & Compliance

• Ensure all estimates, reports, and documentation are complete, accurate, and archived.
• Support compliance with client requirements and local regulations.
• Prepare cost breakdowns and justifications for internal and client use.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 3–5 years of relevant experience in cost estimation, preferably within the UAE.
• Strong knowledge of estimation software (e.g., CostX, PlanSwift, Bluebeam) and MS Excel.
• Familiarity with UAE construction market rates, labor laws, and procurement standards.
• Excellent analytical and numerical skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work under tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in English; Arabic is a plus.
• UAE driving license is an advantage.