Construction Cost Estimator

Element Consulting, Inc.; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Construction Cost Estimator to enhance their Planning, Design & Construction team. In this pivotal role, you will leverage your extensive experience in construction estimating to analyze blueprints, prepare detailed cost reports, and ensure project budgets remain on track. Collaborating closely with engineers, architects, and clients, your expertise will guide sound financial decisions and foster positive relationships. This position offers the chance to make a significant impact on project success while working in a dynamic environment that values precision and collaboration. If you are a dedicated professional with a passion for construction, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of construction estimating experience with conceptual budgeting.
• Extensive knowledge of industry practices and market trends.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates by analyzing plans and performing quantity take-offs.
• Interact with clients and contractors to ensure project objectives are met.

Skills

Construction Estimating

Blueprint Analysis

Budget Management

Communication Skills

Leadership Skills

Problem Solving

Education

BS or BA in Architecture

BS or BA in Engineering

BS or BA in Construction Management

Tools

MC2

Timberline/SageCRE

QuickBid

On-Screen

Job description

Job Summary:
Caltech, Planning, Design & Construction is seeking a Construction Cost Estimator that can immediately add value to the department. The Cost Estimator will be responsible for helping Planning, Design & Construction keep our project budgets on track. Your professional analysis of blueprints and other project plans will help you make sound financial decisions by aiding in the hiring process and with bidding on materials and resources specific to each project. Your role will include working side-by-side with engineers, contractors, architects, and clients. Throughout the course of the project, you will continue to evaluate all aspects and recommend budget adjustments as needed or correct problems that may be associated with product assembly, shipping delays or wasted material.

Position Description:

1. Prepare detailed cost estimates by analyzing plans and specifications and performing quantity take-offs for select trades. Be technically savvy.
2. Analyze documentation, such as blueprints and other data, to prepare materials, cost, time and labor estimates.
3. Break down all expenses and prepare reports to assist management in the organizing, planning and scheduling of work.
4. Collect cost data to estimate total costs for both current and future projects.
5. Develop and prepare conceptual estimates with minimal subcontractor assistance using limited preliminary design documents/information.
6. Develop subcontract interest in projects and manage the subcontractor RFP process.
7. Qualify and level subcontractors' proposals according to project specifics.
8. Itemize trade specific scopes and prepare bid packages.
9. Prepare detailed critical path job schedules.
10. Ability to always maintain discretion and confidentiality.
11. Interact with clients, architects, engineers to understand and incorporate project objectives, schedules, permits, costs, etc.
12. Consult with construction foremen, vendors, clients and management personnel to discuss estimates and resolve issues that may arise.
13. Perform onsite investigations during the course of a project and make adjustments to project budgets as needed.
14. Recommend ways to reduce costs in the areas of labor, materials and assembly to benefit the company.
15. Track actual costs as a project develops and assess cost effectiveness of projects, services or products.
16. Set up cost reporting and monitoring procedures and systems to streamline the process.

Minimum Required Experience:

1. 10+/- years of experience.
2. Relevant Construction Estimating experience including conceptual budgeting.
3. Extensive knowledge of industry practices, procedures, and market trends.
4. Proficient with commercial estimating software such as: MC2, Timberline/SageCRE, QuickBid, On-Screen.
5. Excellent leadership, personable, communication, and written skills.
6. Ability to interact, develop, and maintain a positive professional relationship with all levels of personnel.
7. Meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
8. Review basic software generated estimates for completion and technical accuracy ensuring quality and integrity.

Additional Preferred Experience:

1. A leader that assumes total responsibility for their work.
2. A Team Player that works well with others.
3. Dedicated, well organized, able to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks.
4. Detail-oriented with the ability to focus on quality, accuracy, and attention to detail.
5. Maintain professionalism when faced with aggressive deadlines.
6. Demonstrate commitment to continuous learning.

Required Degree:

BS or BA in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a closely related field. Additional qualifying experience in excess to the minimum stated above may be substituted for the required education on a year for year basis.

Salary dependent on education and experience. Salary range: $90K-$150K