Chief Cost Estimator - Infrastructure & Capital Programs

The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey; Jersey City (NJ); Hybrid; USD 191,000 - 236,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work options

Competitive benefits

Job summary

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey seeks a Chief Estimator to lead the Engineering Estimating function, set standards, and provide cost intelligence for a multi‑billion dollar capital program. You will guide strategic cost governance, develop accurate estimates, and advise leadership on feasibility and budgets.

This senior role requires deep expertise in transportation infrastructure, BIM‑enabled estimating, risk analysis, and cross‑functional collaboration with engineering, PMO,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• 15+ years on large-scale engineering or infrastructure projects with cost estimating.
• Experience with transportation, buildings, bridges, marine and utilities.
• Proficient in estimating software (HCSS, Bluebeam) and Microsoft Office.
• Strong Excel modeling and data analytics; cost databases experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead estimating strategy, standards, and long‑term vision for cost governance.
• Develop standardized estimating methodologies and review processes.
• Maintain cost data, monitor pricing, escalation, and market trends.
• Guide quantity takeoffs, cost modeling, risk analysis, and contingencies.
• Evaluate constructability, VE options, and delivery methods.
• Collaborate with engineering, PMO, finance, procurement, and leadership.
• Lead cost‑risk assessments and contingency strategies.
• Manage and develop the estimating team; promote continuous improvement.
• Champion modern estimating technologies and BIM‑integrated workflows.

Skills

Excel modeling

Data analytics

Cost databases

Cost estimation

Risk analysis

Communication skills

BIM‑linked estimating

Estimating software

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Architecture/Construction Management

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

HCSS

Bluebeam

BIM tools

Job description

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey seeks a Chief Estimator to lead the Engineering Estimating function, set standards, and provide cost intelligence for a multi‑billion dollar capital program. You will guide strategic cost governance, develop accurate estimates, and advise leadership on feasibility and budgets.

This senior role requires deep expertise in transportation infrastructure, BIM‑enabled estimating, risk analysis, and cross‑functional collaboration with engineering, PMO,