Federal Cost Estimator for Government Projects

CDM Smith; Gaithersburg (MD); On-site; USD 76,000 - 159,000; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith is seeking a cost estimator to support federal project delivery in Gaithersburg, MD. The role focuses on producing detailed cost estimates, evaluating bids, and maintaining cost databases to improve estimating accuracy.

You will collaborate with project managers, engineers, and contract officers, ensuring compliance with FAR and UFC standards while contributing to value engineering and lifecycle cost analyses.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required.
• 5 years of relevant cost estimating experience.
• Domestic and/or international travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates using industry-standard tools (MII, PACES, RSMeans) per FAR/DFARS.
• Analyze contractor proposals, bids and change orders for accuracy and compliance.
• Develop and maintain cost models and historical data for estimating improvements.
• Collaborate with PMs, COS, engineers and contracting officers to align estimates with scope.
• Support value engineering with cost-saving alternatives balancing cost and schedule.
• Prepare narratives and documentation for government review and audits.
• Ensure compliance with FAR, CAS and agency estimating procedures.

Skills

Cost estimating

FAR compliance

UFC standards

MII MCACES II

RSMeans

Proposal analysis

Written communication

Stakeholder coordination

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

MII (MCACES II)

RSMeans

Success Estimator

Job description

CDM Smith is seeking a cost estimator to support federal project delivery in Gaithersburg, MD. The role focuses on producing detailed cost estimates, evaluating bids, and maintaining cost databases to improve estimating accuracy.

You will collaborate with project managers, engineers, and contract officers, ensuring compliance with FAR and UFC standards while contributing to value engineering and lifecycle cost analyses.