FEMA - Costing Specialist

CDM Smith; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Costing Specialist to join their team in Charleston. In this role, you will conduct preliminary damage assessments and prepare detailed project worksheets to determine eligibility for FEMA assistance. Your expertise in estimating tools and strong organizational skills will be essential as you analyze cost claims and coordinate site inspections. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to disaster recovery efforts while ensuring compliance with federal regulations. If you are detail-oriented and possess excellent communication skills, this role could be the perfect fit for you.

Qualifications

• 5 years of in-field experience or 2 years with a bachelor’s degree.
• Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain a FEMA Badge.

Responsibilities

• Conducts preliminary damage assessments for infrastructure projects.
• Prepares project worksheets to determine eligibility and costs.
• Reviews and analyzes cost claims for accuracy.

Skills

U.S. citizenship

Estimating tools (RS Means)

FEMA’s Cost Estimating Format (CEF)

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Written communication skills

Oral communication skills

Experience with Federal Regulations

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

RS Means

Job description

CDM Smith FEMA - Costing Specialist in Charleston, South Carolina

Requisition ID: 40481BR

Business Unit: FSU

Job Description:

1. Conducts preliminary damage assessments (PDAs) in the field for infrastructure projects.
2. Prepares complex project worksheets for the purposes of determining project eligibility, scopes of work and estimating costs to repair or replace a facility or structure damaged by a disaster.
3. Reviews, evaluates and analyzes applicant-provided cost claims for reasonableness and accuracy as related to the scope of work.
4. Researches, reviews and updates equipment rates used in reimbursing applicants for the use of applicant-owned equipment while performing eligible work.
5. May coordinate and complete basic to moderately complex site inspections to validate and record damage to assist in the FEMA Public Assistance grant delivery process.
6. Must be a U.S. citizen and be able to obtain a FEMA Badge, which includes a background investigation for a Public Trust position.
7. Performs other duties as required.

Job Title: FEMA - Costing Specialist

Group:

Employment Type: Temporary

Minimum Qualifications:

1. 5 years of in-field experience or 2 years of in-field expertise with a bachelor’s degree.
2. Domestic travel is required.

Skills and Abilities:

1. Must be a U.S. citizen and be able to obtain a FEMA Badge, which includes a background investigation for a Public Trust position.
2. Familiar with estimating tools such as RS Means.
3. Knowledge of FEMA’s Cost Estimating Format (CEF) is a plus.
4. Demonstrates good organizational skills to balance and prioritize work.
5. Strong attention to detail.
6. Strong written and oral communication skills.
7. Experience working with Federal Regulations and Code.

Pay Range: $33.60 - $67.20

Work Location Options: Successful candidate will be required to work in office and field locations as needed.

Driver's License Requirements: An appropriate and valid driver's license is required.