Federal Cost Estimator (MII/RSMeans) & Value Engineering

CDM Smith; Carlsbad (CA); On-site; USD 76,000 - 159,000; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith is seeking a Cost Estimator for federal projects in Carlsbad, CA. You will prepare detailed estimates, analyze bids, and develop cost models across design phases, ensuring compliance with FAR, UFC, and agency-specific procedures.

You will collaborate with PMs, COS, engineers, and contracting officers to align costs with scopes, support value engineering, and contribute to budget and life-cycle analyses. 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. The frequency of travel is contingent on workload and project demands.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates using industry-standard tools in accordance with FAR/DFARS and agency regulations.
• Analyze contractor cost proposals, bids, and change orders for accuracy and compliance.
• Interpret drawings, specifications, and statements of work to develop estimates at various design stages.
• Incorporate UFC, Service Instructions, and other standards to ensure compliant, constructible estimates.
• Develop and maintain cost models, databases, and historical data to improve estimating accuracy.
• Collaborate with Project Managers, COS, Engineers, and Contracting Officers to align estimates with project scopes.
• Support value engineering by identifying cost-saving opportunities and balancing cost, schedule, and performance.
• Prepare narratives and documentation for government review and audits.
• Evaluate risk and contingency requirements based on project complexity and market conditions.
• Provide input for budgets, life-cycle cost analyses, and IGEs.

Skills

MII (MCACES II)

RSMeans estimating tools

Success Estimator

FAR compliance

UFC standards

Cost estimating

Writing skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder coordination

Project collaboration

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

MII (MCACES II)

RSMeans

Success Estimator

Job description

CDM Smith is seeking a Cost Estimator for federal projects in Carlsbad, CA. You will prepare detailed estimates, analyze bids, and develop cost models across design phases, ensuring compliance with FAR, UFC, and agency-specific procedures.

You will collaborate with PMs, COS, engineers, and contracting officers to align costs with scopes, support value engineering, and contribute to budget and life-cycle analyses. Travel may be required.