Construction Cost Estimator – Thermal Power Generation Projects

Jacobs; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 123,600 - 162,300; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) plan

Unlimited Paid Time Off

Job summary

Jacobs is seeking a Construction Cost Estimator in Boston, MA to develop accurate cost estimates for large-scale thermal power generation facilities. This role involves analyzing cost drivers, preparing quantity takeoffs, and collaborating with engineering and construction teams. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field, at least 5 years of experience, and strong knowledge of power plant construction methods. Comprehensive benefits include health insurance and an unlimited paid time off policy.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience preparing construction cost estimates for EPC, industrial, or thermal power generation projects.
• Strong working knowledge of thermal power plant construction including mechanical systems and electrical distribution.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and P&IDs.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed construction cost estimates for thermal power projects.
• Analyze labor, material, equipment, and subcontract costs to produce accurate cost models.
• Support development of EPC bid packages and budget allocations.

Skills

Cost estimation

Power plant construction knowledge

Analytical skills

Software proficiency (ACCE, Sage, RSMeans)

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field

Tools

Aspen Capital Cost Estimator

Sage

RSMeans

Job description

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‑critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‑edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

Jacobs is seeking an experienced Construction Cost Estimator to support the development of accurate, defensible, and well‑documented cost estimates for large‑scale thermal power generation facilities. This role is central to ensuring high‑quality cost forecasting across engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning phases. Working under the direction of the Project Controls Manager, this position develops detailed estimates, analyzes cost drivers, evaluates subcontractor proposals, and supports project teams in achieving predictable cost outcomes. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of power plant construction methods, strong analytical skills, and a proven ability to develop estimates for complex, multi‑discipline industrial projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed construction cost estimates for thermal power generation projects, including civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and controls scopes.
• Prepare quantity takeoffs from engineering drawings, P&IDs, equipment lists, and specifications to support conceptual, FEED, and detailed‑design estimates.
• Analyze labor, material, equipment, subcontract, and indirect cost components to produce accurate and transparent cost models.
• Evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals for completeness, scope alignment, pricing accuracy, and risk considerations.
• Support development of EPC bid packages, cost baselines, and budget allocations for major equipment, bulk materials, and construction services.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to validate design assumptions, construction quantities, and material specifications.
• Work closely with construction teams to incorporate productivity factors, crew compositions, construction sequencing, and site‑specific conditions into estimates.
• Develop and maintain cost databases, benchmarking tools, and historical cost records for thermal power plant systems and components.
• Identify cost risks, opportunities, and value‑engineering options to support project decision‑making.
• Prepare estimate narratives, basis‑of‑estimate documentation, and cost variance analyses for internal and client review.
• Support project controls teams during execution by providing estimate‑to‑actual comparisons, trend analysis, and forecast updates.
• Ensure compliance with Jacobs estimating standards, client requirements, and industry best practices.

Preferred Location: Greenville, SC. Will consider any Jacobs office location nationwide.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or a related field; equivalent industry experience considered.
• 5+ years of experience preparing construction cost estimates for EPC, industrial, or thermal power generation projects.
• Strong working knowledge of thermal power plant construction, including mechanical systems, HRSG/boiler components, rotating equipment, electrical distribution, and balance‑of‑plant systems.
• Proficiency with estimating software and tools such as Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (ACCE), Sage, RSMeans, or equivalent platforms.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, equipment specifications, and construction work packages.
• Demonstrated experience developing quantity takeoffs, evaluating subcontractor proposals, and building detailed cost models.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple estimates in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate with engineering, procurement, construction, and project controls teams.

Benefits

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Employees have access to medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount. Eligible employees may also enroll in a deferred compensation plan or the Executive Deferral Plan. Jacobs has an unlimited U.S. Personalized Paid Time Off (PPTO) policy for full‑time salaried/exempt employees, seven paid holidays, and caregiver leave. Certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.

Compensation

The base salary range for this position is $123,600.00 to $162,300.00. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.