COST ENGINEER

Idaho Society of Professional Engineers; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 104,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Elite Retirement System

Lifelong Health Coverage

Generous Time Off

Parking and military facilities access

Global Mobility

Job summary

NAVFAC Pacific is seeking a Cost Engineer to develop cost estimates for a variety of military construction and renovation projects. You will act as lead estimator in design workshops and advise designers and project managers on cost control, constructability, and alternative designs.

The role requires 4–10 years of experience in cost estimating and scheduling, a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, and the ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering is required.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a SECRET Clearance.
• U.S. Citizen 18+ and compliant with Selective Service.
• Background check and fingerprinting will be conducted.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive preliminary, budget, and detailed cost estimates for MILCON and renovation projects.
• Lead estimator in design workshops; advise on cost control and constructability.
• Analyze designs, drawings, and specifications to determine cost projections and evaluate proposals.
• Review complex cost estimates from A/E firms and perform QC reviews of in-house designs.
• Research construction trends and adjust cost data to mitigate risk and reflect current costs.

Skills

Cost estimation

Scheduling experience

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

Job description

COST ENGINEER

At NAVFAC Pacific, we bring together diverse engineering and technical talents to deliver cutting-edge, impactful infrastructure projects that secure our nation's future. We are currently looking for experienced, journey-level Cost Engineers to join our dynamic team and make a lasting impact.

Our Cost Engineers provide independent, timely, and professional architectural products and services, consultation, design, construction, and maintenance of facilities for the Navy, Marine Corps, and other supported Commands. You will be working on a variety of special projects and critical military construction (MILCON), and be involved in the demolition, maintenance, space utilization, and development of facilities.

As a Cost Engineer, you will:

• Develop comprehensive preliminary, budget, and detailed cost estimates for a wide variety of complex military construction and renovation projects.
• Act as the lead estimator in design workshops, provide expert advice to designers and project managers on cost control, constructability, and alternative design scenarios.
• Conduct analysis of designs, drawings, and specifications to determine cost projections, evaluate contractor cost proposals, and participate in change order negotiations.
• Perform comprehensive reviews of complex cost estimates prepared by Architecture/Engineering (A/E) firms, ensure compliance with contractual requirements, and participate in Quality Control reviews of in-house designs.
• Research and analyze construction trends, adjust cost data accordingly to mitigate risk, and maintain up-to-date information on labor, materials, and equipment costs.

Highly Desirable:

Professional Engineer License and 4-10 years construction cost estimating and scheduling experience.

Key Position Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering
• Valid Driver’s License
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a SECRET Clearance
• A US Citizen aged 18 or older at time of hire
• Males registered or exempt from Selective Service www.sss.gov
• Determined suitable for federal employment (process includes a background check and fingerprinting)

Salary Range: $103,937 – $139,817

Benefit Package Built for Your Future:

We understand that true compensation goes far beyond a base salary. NAVFAC Pacific offers a comprehensive, highly competitive benefits portfolio designed to provide exceptional long-term financial security, robust health coverage, and genuine work-life balance.

Elite Retirement System

A powerful three-part plan featuring a Federal Pension (FERS), a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with up to a 5% employer match, and Social Security. Gain access to a guaranteed defined-benefit pension—a highly sought-after cornerstone for retirement that is increasingly rare to find.

Lifelong Health Coverage

Top-tier, flexible health insurance plans for you and your family. Carry your health coverage into retirement, providing unparalleled long-term peace of mind and financial protection.

Generous Time Off

Continuously accruing paid sick and annual (vacation) leave, plus 11 paid federal holidays. Prioritize your well-being with abundant, guaranteed time to recharge and spend with family.

Maximized Earnings

A highly competitive base salary paired with localized Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). Ensure your purchasing power remains strong and adapts to your specific geographic location.

Work-Life Integration

Flexible and alternative work scheduling options. Tailor your professional hours to better accommodate your personal life and commitments.

Everyday & Exclusive Perks

Complimentary workplace parking, plus exclusive access to military recreational facilities and shopping at the military exchanges.

Global Mobility

Outstanding opportunities to travel and work on projects around the world.

Come visit us at our Job Fair on Thursday, September 10th, 2026 at the Ala Moana Hotel Carnation Room, from 9:00am – 5:30pm. See more details below.