Estimator IV

DVJ Consulting Engineers; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

DVJ Consulting Engineers is seeking a senior estimator to lead cost estimation for MEP projects in Los Angeles. You will prepare complete estimates from drawings and specifications, perform material takeoffs, and evaluate bids and change orders.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in building cost estimation with MEP focus, deep knowledge of Design Bid Build and Design Build methods, and experience with RS Means, Accubid, and Bluebeam Revu. Strong analytical and negotiation skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Ten or more years of professional estimating experience.
• Experience in estimating for I, II, III, and V building types per code.
• Strong knowledge of MEP systems and construction methods.

Responsibilities

• Prepare complete cost estimates for buildings from drawings, specs and outlines.
• Evaluate pricing documents, bids, change orders, and value engineering reports.
• Conduct material takeoffs and quantity surveys for MEP systems.
• Develop cost-based scope of work from RFIs/RFQs and contractor proposals.
• Collaborate with PMs, engineers, and architects to identify cost-saving opportunities.

Skills

MEP estimating

Cost estimating

Excel

Quantity takeoffs

Bid evaluation

Value engineering

Education

BS/BA in Engineering/Architecture/Construction Management

Tools

RS Means

Accubid

Trimble MEP

Bluebeam Revu

Job description

Position Description:

• Senior level estimator who specializes in Mechanical, Electrical, and Pluming (MEP) trades to report to PMO Program Controls Manager and Lead Estimator.


• Plan and participate in the preparation of construction cost estimates of buildings or other structures from drawings, outlines, and specifications.


• Prepare estimates per design based on scope and building type.


• Evaluate cost-estimating deliverables prepared by consultants for cost containment, accuracy, uniformity and completeness.


• Prepare fair cost estimates for cost proposals from Contractors for extra work.


• Perform special studies and prepare reports when contractors’ bids vary from the construction cost estimate.


• Conduct construction/project site visits gathering relevant information and determine what information to be used to produce project estimates.


• Conduct material takeoffs and quantity surveys for MEP systems, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing components.


• Evaluate pricing documents, historical and vendor cost data for the development of cost estimates and price recommendations.


• Evaluate quotes, bids, change orders, value engineering reports, and claims for accuracy and completeness of estimates.


• Compile and analyze data on all factors that influence costs such as material, labor, equipment and profit.


• Prepare technical evaluations, cost estimating draft report, memos, letters, and present recommendation to management.


• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and architects to identify value engineering opportunities and cost-savings measures.


• Perform other related estimating duties as assigned.


• Ability to compare cost estimates with contractors’ proposal to identify discrepancies.


• Ability to develop scope of work based on RFI/RFC, answers and estimates the detailed costs of those scopes of work independent of the contractor proposal.


• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.


• Ability to perform basic calculations in Excel.

Minimum Required Qualifications:

• Ten (10) years minimum of recent professional experience in the preparation of complete cost estimates for type I, II, or III, and V building construction as defined by the State building code including 5 - 7 years of MEP estimating.


• BS/BA Degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or other related degree. Additional qualifying experience in excess to the minimum stated above may be substituted for the required education on a year for year basis.


• Expert in theories, principles, and practices of cost estimating and contract pricing.


• Expert in Design Build, Design Bid Build and Job Order Contracting forms of contracting.


• Full knowledge of construction methods for buildings and structures.


• Full knowledge of current local construction labor and material costs.


• Full knowledge of MEP systems, construction methods, and industry standards.


• Extensive experience in developing and estimating the scope of work for change orders.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Prevailing Wage/Union Labor rates.


• Knowledge and use of NECA and MCAA labor productivity.


• Knowledge and use of RS Means, Accubid, Trimble MEP, or Bluebeam Revu.


• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and thoroughness.


• Excellent mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.


• Effective communication and negotiation skills.