Federal Cost Estimator – MII/RSMeans Specialist

CDM Smith; Aurora (IL); On-site; USD 76,000 - 159,000; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith is seeking a detailed and experienced Cost Estimator to join our Federal construction estimating team in Illinois. You will prepare comprehensive cost estimates using industry-standard tools, analyze proposals for FAR and agency compliance, and develop cost models to support project delivery from concept through final design.

Travel to project sites is expected. The role requires a Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, 5+ years in federal estimating, and U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required; equivalent directly related experience considered.
• 5+ years of relevant estimating experience in Federal construction programs.
• US citizen and able to pass a federal background check.
• Proficiency with MII (MCACES II), RSMeans and related cost systems.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed, discipline-specific cost estimates per FAR/DFARS and government standards.
• Analyze contractor cost proposals, bids, and change orders for accuracy and compliance.
• Interpret drawings and specifications to develop estimates across design stages.
• Develop cost models, pricing databases, and historical data for continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with PMs, COS, engineers, and contracting officers for alignment of scopes.
• Support value engineering and risk/contingency analysis for complex projects.
• Prepare cost analyses, narratives, and justification documents for government review.

Skills

U.S. citizen

Federal regulations knowledge

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Stakeholder coordination

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Equivalent related experience

Tools

MII (MCACES II)

RSMeans

Success Estimator

Job description

CDM Smith is seeking a detailed and experienced Cost Estimator to join our Federal construction estimating team in Illinois. You will prepare comprehensive cost estimates using industry-standard tools, analyze proposals for FAR and agency compliance, and develop cost models to support project delivery from concept through final design.

Travel to project sites is expected. The role requires a Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, 5+ years in federal estimating, and U.S.