Estimator – Civil & Construction Costing

CDM Smith; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 149,000; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith is seeking an experienced estimator in the United States to produce accurate quantity take-offs and material pricing for project bids. You will review plans, coordinate with subcontractors and vendors, and develop budgets under guidance from senior estimators.

Travel up to 10% may be required, with responsibilities spanning bid delivery, cost analysis, and documentation management. The role emphasizes cross‑functional collaboration and timely, precise estimates.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• 5 years of related experience.
• Domestic and/or international travel may be required.
• Equivalent additional related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Responsibilities

• Produces accurate quantity and material take-offs by reviewing plans, specifications, and instructions for assigned areas for estimate preparation.
• Enters quantity take-offs and material unit pricings as applicable to project.
• Applies appropriate work breakdown structure (WBS).
• Coordinates estimate material pricing from vendors and other sources and develops pricing for basic project elements.
• Contacts subcontractors and suppliers for outsource pricing.
• Contributes to the preparation of key estimating deliverables.
• Supports conceptual estimating efforts within the department, including development of basic models for review by senior personnel.
• Develops budgets and purchasing plans with minimal oversight from senior estimation staff.
• Coordinates flow of documents during estimate preparation.
• Provides administrative logging of estimates.
• Performs additional duties as required.

Skills

Estimating techniques

Cost control

Material pricing

Reading drawings

Multi-tasking

PC skills

Communication

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

5 years of related experience

Travel is required

Degree not required

Tools

Estimating software

On-Screen digitizing software

Job description

CDM Smith is seeking an experienced estimator in the United States to produce accurate quantity take-offs and material pricing for project bids. You will review plans, coordinate with subcontractors and vendors, and develop budgets under guidance from senior estimators.

Travel up to 10% may be required, with responsibilities spanning bid delivery, cost analysis, and documentation management. The role emphasizes cross‑functional collaboration and timely, precise estimates.