Forensic Construction Cost Estimator

Aquatech Consultancy, Inc.; Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a growing building envelope consulting firm as a Forensic Construction Cost Estimator. In this role, you'll analyze and quantify construction costs related to building failures and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team. This position offers impactful work in a supportive culture that values integrity and professional growth. With opportunities for training and advancement, you'll contribute to meaningful forensic projects while enjoying comprehensive benefits, including health insurance and generous PTO. If you're passionate about construction and eager to make a difference, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Vision Insurance

Dental Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

Generous PTO

Paid Holidays

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in construction estimating; forensic or insurance-related experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of building envelope systems and construction practices.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for building envelope systems.
• Conduct site inspections and field documentation for forensic cost analysis.

Skills

Construction Estimating

Communication Skills

Analytical Skills

Forensic Analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Related field experience

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Bluebeam

Autodesk

Job description

2 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Aquatech Consultancy, Inc. provided pay range

This range is provided by Aquatech Consultancy, Inc.. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$40.00/hr - $48.00/hr

Location: Walnut Creek or Auburn, CA

ABOUT US

Aquatech Consultancy, Inc. is a growing building envelope consulting firm based in the East Bay. We pride ourselves on our collaborative work culture, technical excellence, and detail-oriented approach. Our multidisciplinary team includes architects, engineers, and construction experts dedicated to delivering high-quality forensic and consulting services. We are currently seeking a Forensic Construction Cost Estimator to support our expanding caseload and contribute to impactful projects across the region.

POSITION OVERVIEW

As a Forensic Construction Cost Estimator, you will play a key role in analyzing and quantifying construction costs associated with building envelope failures, construction defects, water intrusion, weather-related damage, and insurance claims. This role involves collaboration with engineers, architects, attorneys, and insurance professionals to develop cost opinions and support expert reports.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for repair, replacement, or restoration of building envelope systems (e.g., roofs, facades, windows, waterproofing).
• Evaluate structural damage due to weather events, material failures, or construction defects.
• Develop and present clear, defensible cost reports for use in litigation, insurance claims, and expert testimony.
• Interpret architectural, structural, and engineering drawings and specifications to build accurate cost models.
• Work closely with forensic engineers, legal teams, and consultants to develop scopes of work and cost estimates.
• Provide cost comparisons between as-built conditions and code-compliant/industry-standard repairs.
• Stay up to date with construction pricing, materials, and methods—especially in the building envelope sector.
• Conduct site inspections and field documentation to support forensic cost analysis.
• Assist in expert report writing and preparation for legal proceedings.
• Use Microsoft Excel and Word, Bluebeam, and Autodesk, and other industry-standard platforms.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of experience in construction estimating; forensic or insurance-related experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of building envelope systems, construction practices, and relevant codes.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word, Bluebeam, Autodesk, and reading construction drawings.
• Ability to analyze damage and produce detailed remediation cost breakdowns.
• Clear, professional communication skills (written and verbal).
• Self-starter with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or similar, or related field experience.
• Experience supporting legal teams, insurance adjusters, or expert witness testimony.
• Familiarity with standards and codes including ASTM, AAMA, CRC, CBC, IBC, etc.
• Certifications such as CPE (Certified Professional Estimator), CCC (Certified Cost Consultant), or similar.

WHY JOIN AQUATECH?

• Impactful Work – Contribute to meaningful forensic projects across commercial, residential, and institutional markets.
• Collaborative Culture – Be part of a supportive, knowledgeable team that values integrity, mentorship, and growth.
• Career Growth – We invest in your professional development with opportunities for training, certification, and advancement.
• Comprehensive Benefits – Competitive compensation and benefits including health, vision, and dental insurance, 18 paid Holidays/Fixed days off + generous PTO, 401(k) retirement plan, …and more!

HOW TO APPLY

Please reply to this post via email using the subject line "Forensic Construction Cost Estimator Application" and include your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your qualifications.

We look forward to reviewing your application!

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management and Manufacturing

• Industries

  Construction

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