Federal Cost Estimator — Construction & Compliance

CDM Smith; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 76,000 - 159,000; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith seeks a seasoned cost estimator to develop and manage detailed project cost estimates for federal work in Dallas, TX. You will interpret drawings, apply UFC standards, and maintain cost databases to improve estimating accuracy across design stages.

The role involves coordinating with PMs, COS, engineers, and contracting officers, supporting value engineering, and preparing narratives for government reviews and IGEs. 100% travel may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree.
• 5 years of relevant experience.
• Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a college degree.
• Domestic and/or international travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed, discipline-specific, and total project cost estimates using industry-standard cost estimating tools such as MII (MCACES II), PACES, RSMeans, and Success Estimator in accordance with Federal standards.
• Analyze contractor cost proposals, bids, and change orders for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with FAR, DFARS, Davis-Bacon, and Federal agency-specific regulations.
• Interpret and quantify drawings, specifications, and statements of work to develop cost estimates and supporting documentation at various design and project stages (conceptual through final design).
• Incorporate and reference UFC, Service Instructions, and other applicable codes, standards, and design guides to ensure cost estimates reflect compliant and constructible solutions.
• Develop and maintain cost models, pricing databases, and historical cost data to support continuous improvement of estimating accuracy.
• Collaborate with Project Managers, COS, Engineers, and Contracting Officers to ensure consistency and alignment between cost estimates, project scopes, and technical requirements.
• Support value engineering efforts by identifying cost-saving opportunities, evaluating alternative materials or methods, and providing recommendations that balance cost, schedule, and performance.
• Prepare detailed cost analyses, estimate narratives, and justification documentation for government review and audit purposes.
• Evaluate risk and contingency requirements based on project complexity, market conditions, and uncertainty levels.
• Provide input for budget development, life-cycle cost analyses, and independent government estimates (IGEs).
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, design reviews, and post-award evaluations to support continuous improvement and lessons learned.
• Ensure compliance with FAR, CAS, and agency-specific estimating procedures.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support successful project delivery and Federal client satisfaction.

Skills

Strong writing & reporting

Communication skills

Detail-oriented

Stakeholder coordination

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

MII (MCACES II)

RSMeans

PACES

Success Estimator

Job description

CDM Smith seeks a seasoned cost estimator to develop and manage detailed project cost estimates for federal work in Dallas, TX. You will interpret drawings, apply UFC standards, and maintain cost databases to improve estimating accuracy across design stages.

The role involves coordinating with PMs, COS, engineers, and contracting officers, supporting value engineering, and preparing narratives for government reviews and IGEs. 100% travel may be required.