Estimating Intern: Cost Takeoff Apprentice

Consigli Construction Co., Inc.; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Consigli Construction Co., Inc. in Portland, ME is seeking an Estimating Intern to support the estimating team on cost assessments, data entry, and bid preparation.

This in-person role offers hands-on learning in take-offs, pricing, and documentation within a dynamic construction environment. The incumbent will assist with quantity take-offs, supplier research, and database upkeep while aligning estimating activities with project goals.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• 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) is a plus.
• Capable of 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

Quantity takeoffs

Unit pricing

Cost comparisons

Subcontractor coordination

Product research

Document management

Education

Construction Management degree (pursuing)

Tools

Bluebeam

On-Screen Takeoff

Excel

Job description

Consigli Construction Co., Inc. in Portland, ME is seeking an Estimating Intern to support the estimating team on cost assessments, data entry, and bid preparation.

This in-person role offers hands-on learning in take-offs, pricing, and documentation within a dynamic construction environment. The incumbent will assist with quantity take-offs, supplier research, and database upkeep while aligning estimating activities with project goals.