Estimating Intern: Build Cost, Takeoffs & Bids

Consigli Construction; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 33,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

Consigli Construction in Washington, DC is seeking an Estimating Intern to join the Estimating division for a 40-hour in-person schedule. The role supports the estimating team with quantity take-offs, cost research, and document management, offering hands-on experience in bid development and value-engineering.

You will assist with subcontractor coordination, product research, and database maintenance, while learning cost-tracking practices and data analysis within a dynamic construction

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field (strong preference for construction-focused programs).
• Foundational understanding of construction processes, materials, systems, and terminology.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel for cost tracking and analysis.
• Familiarity with estimating tools or software (e.g., Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, or similar platforms) is a plus.
• Capable of conducting vendor, material, and cost research to support pricing accuracy.
• Experience organizing or contributing to bid documentation, cost databases, and takeoff files (preferred).
• Basic knowledge of unit pricing, quantity takeoffs, and cost estimating principles.

Responsibilities

• Assist with quantity take-offs, unit pricing, and cost comparisons; compile detailed estimates for materials, labor, and project systems, documenting assumptions and qualifications.
• Manage subcontractor lists and contacts, conduct research on products and suppliers, and maintain accurate estimating databases and records.
• Conduct site visits to collect project-specific data - such as access, topography, and utilities and analyze historical cost data to support bids.
• Prepare and reconcile cost estimates against previous projects and assist in monitoring actual vs. estimated expenditures to assess cost effectiveness.
• Facilitate collaboration by coordinating with engineers, architects, subcontractors, and internal teams throughout the estimating process.
• Support bid development by preparing expenditure statements, maintaining tender documentation, and participate in estimate review and value-engineering sessions.
• Utilize cost-monitoring systems to identify potential risks or variances, contributing to negotiations and decision-making.
• Maintain precise and timely updates in estimating databases and project files to ensure smooth estimating workflows and compliance with company procedures.

Skills

Communication

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Time management

Analytical thinking

Collaborative

Adaptability

Curiosity

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering

Tools

Excel

Bluebeam

On-Screen Takeoff

Job description

Consigli Construction in Washington, DC is seeking an Estimating Intern to join the Estimating division for a 40-hour in-person schedule. The role supports the estimating team with quantity take-offs, cost research, and document management, offering hands-on experience in bid development and value-engineering.

You will assist with subcontractor coordination, product research, and database maintenance, while learning cost-tracking practices and data analysis within a dynamic construction