Chief Estimator

Evonik group; Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work environment

Performance-based pay

Health and wellbeing benefits

Job summary

Evonik is seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead the estimating strategy and governance for large capital projects in Lafayette, IN. The role requires coordinating with EPC/EPCM partners to ensure accurate cost estimates and aligned scope across project phases.

You will develop, review, and defend estimate bases, drive risk-based contingency approaches, and present findings to leadership. A bachelor’s degree in a related field and decisive leadership are essential.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of progressive experience in project estimating.
• Experience leading large capital projects and coordinating with EPC/EPCM contractors.
• Strong cost control and risk-based contingency development.
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills with stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead estimating strategy, methodology, and governance across FEL and execution phases.
• Develop, review, and validate project cost estimates for accuracy and scope alignment.
• Benchmark estimates, evaluate inputs, normalize vendor quotations.
• Prepare Estimate Basis documentation and support growth tracking across phases.
• Coordinate scope definition and ensure contractor alignment with standards.

Skills

Leadership

Cost control

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Construction Management

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

## Chief EstimatorApplylocations: Lafayette, INtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 12 Days Agojob requisition id: R49564**What we offer**Explore a world of opportunities with us. Look ahead with us and help shape innovative solutions to make our world more sustainable and life healthier, more vibrant and more comfortable. At Evonik, you have the chance to explore, thrive, and grow alongside 33,000 colleagues. Among attractive career paths and high-quality development programs, we not only offer performance-based remuneration and occupational health benefits but also hybrid and flexible working environments with #SmartWork. Bring your fresh perspective, develop your strengths, break out your mold, and find a career that fits your dreams with us.Leads estimate methodology/consistency across disciplines and packages; validates vendor quotes; sets contingency and MR methodology. Operates as owner-representative to define, specify, steer, and manage work by others (EPC/EPCM/contractors) in accordance with Evonik practices and project-specific requirements on Project Ascent – Tippecanoe (Lafayette, IN).**Click on the link below to learn what our employees have to say about Evonik:** https://careers.evonik.com/en/about/meet-the-team/**Key Responsibilities*** Lead project estimating strategy, methodology, and governance across FEL and execution phases.* Develop, review, and validate project cost estimates to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with project scope.* Benchmark estimates, evaluate discipline inputs, and normalize vendor quotations and assumptions.* Establish contingency and management reserve approaches based on project risks and opportunities.* Prepare and maintain Estimate Basis documentation and support quantity growth tracking between project phases.* Coordinate scope definition and deliverables, ensuring contractors align with project standards, interfaces, and requirements.* Maintain and drive closure of project action, issue, and risk registers with clear accountability.* Support project gate reviews by developing estimates, schedules, reporting packages, and key project metrics.* Present estimate reviews, recommendations, and approval packages to project leadership and stakeholders.* Collaborate closely with project management, engineering, procurement, construction, and external EPC/EPCM partners to ensure successful project delivery.**Requirements*** 12+ years of progressive experience in project estimating, including leadership of large capital projects.* Strong construction estimating background with expertise in work package development and cost control.* Demonstrated experience working with EPC/EPCM contractors, vendors, and benchmarking methodologies.* Proven ability to develop, review, and govern complex project estimates across multiple disciplines.* Strong understanding of project execution phases, cost estimation best practices, and risk-based contingency development.* Excellent communication and facilitation skills with the ability to influence stakeholders without direct authority.* Experience leading estimate reviews, presentations, and executive-level approval processes.* Highly organized with strong attention to detail and rigorous documentation practices.* Proficiency in managing action logs, risk registers, estimate basis documents, and project controls deliverables.* Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred.The Evonik Group adopts an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) approach. Candidates are assessed based on their educational qualifications, experience, job competencies and potential and shall not be discriminated against on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, gender, religion, nationality, disability or sexual orientation or other classifications protected by local, state, or provincial regulations.**Your Application**To ensure that your application is proceeded as quickly as possible and to protect the environment, please apply online via our careers portal. Further information about Evonik as Employer can be found at www.evonik.com/en/careers.html.Please address your application to the Talent Acquisition Manager, stating your earliest possible starting date and your salary expectations.