Estimator: Precision Takeoffs & Project Budgets

CDM Smith; Brookings (SD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 149,000; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith is seeking an experienced estimator to produce accurate quantity take-offs and pricing for projects in the United States. You will coordinate pricing with vendors and subcontractors, develop budgets, and support conceptual estimates with minimal supervision.

Applicants should have a High School diploma and 5 years of related experience; travel up to 10% may be required. The role emphasizes reading drawings, cost control, and strong communication within a collaborative team.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• 5 years of related experience.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
• Equivalent related experience considered in lieu of degree.

Responsibilities

• Produces accurate quantity and material take-offs by reviewing plans, specs and instructions.
• Enters quantity take-offs and material unit pricings for estimate prep.
• Applies appropriate work breakdown structure (WBS).
• Coordinates estimate material pricing from vendors and sources.
• Contacts subcontractors and suppliers for outsource pricing.
• Contributes to the preparation of key estimating deliverables.
• Supports conceptual estimating efforts and develops basic models.
• Develops budgets and purchasing plans with minimal oversight.
• Coordinates flow of documents during estimate prep.
• Provides administrative logging of estimates.

Skills

Estimating techniques

Cost control

Material pricing

Reading drawings

Specifications comprehension

Multitasking

Written communication

Verbal communication

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

High School diploma

Tools

Estimating software

On-Screen digitizing software

Job description

CDM Smith is seeking an experienced estimator to produce accurate quantity take-offs and pricing for projects in the United States. You will coordinate pricing with vendors and subcontractors, develop budgets, and support conceptual estimates with minimal supervision.

Applicants should have a High School diploma and 5 years of related experience; travel up to 10% may be required. The role emphasizes reading drawings, cost control, and strong communication within a collaborative team.